From Syria to the border gates of Wagah, the fear of Balkanisation along the lines of religious radicalism and sectarianism poses a threat to the internal stability of countries of South Asia including India.

The internal civil wars in the countries of West Asia, Afghanistan and Pakistan will test the strength of our borders, resilience of our foreign policy, grip over internal security and sectarian bonds of religion. It is one of foremost challenges that the new Indian administration faces even as it grapples with the prospect of an inadequate monsoon.