ABSTRACT
Generally analyses of the so called new great game in Central Asia focus on Russian and American policies. However such assessments generally overlook India's already substantial presence and equally ambitious objectives there, as well as the Central Asian dimension of its ties to China. Moreover, India's future approach to Central Asia, like its present attitude, will also be rooted to some degreee not just in its rivalry with Pakistan, but also in its competitive relationship with China which is also a major player. India looks to Central Asia for reasons of internal security against Islamic terrorism, energy access, economic opportunities, and defense against foreign threats. America's efforts to build a broader connection of Central Asian militaries with its own forces and with NATO, and the talk of an Asian NATO comprising India, America, and other Asian powers also reflect this trend growing out of India's strategic partnership with America.
