India and Nepal share deep-rooted ties that are as ancient and robust as the majestic Himalayas. The two nations are bonded through geographical proximity, historical events, cultural similarities, and economic linkages that have been thriving over centuries. Lately, however, certain issues have arisen that have strained this bond, raising concerns on both sides. This article aims to delve into these issues and highlight recent developments that have marked the Indo-Nepal relationship.
Recent Developments in India-Nepal Relations
The Indian Prime Minister’s visit to Lumbini, Nepal’s birthplace of Buddha, has recently painted an optimistic picture of Indo-Nepal relations. The groundwork for a Buddhist Vihara was laid by the Prime Ministers of India and Nepal, marking the 2566th Buddha Jayanti celebrations. The Indian PM lauded Nepal for its preservation of ancient culture and civilization. Key highlights of the visit included the commencement of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage, signing agreements on hydropower projects, establishing an Indian Institute of Technology satellite campus, and discussing pending projects.
Nepal’s Significance in India’s Foreign Policy
Nepal’s strategic location, along with shared cultural strands of Hinduism and Buddhism, emphasize its importance in India’s foreign policy. However, their relations have undergone phases of discord, primarily due to perceived Indian interference in Nepal’s Constitution drafting process and a subsequent alleged blockade causing resentment. Issues further escalated when Nepal enlisted in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which India had earlier rejected. Nepal’s release of a new political map claiming territory in Uttarakhand and Bihar stirred the pot of disagreements.
Problems Plaguing the Indo-Nepal Relationships
The unresolved Kalapani boundary issue has been a significant dispute between India and Nepal. The boundary was established by the British in 1816 and inherited by India in 1947. However, Susta and Kalapani areas remained non-demarcated. The 2019 political map released by Nepal, including these territories, has further intensified tensions. Other issues include Nepal’s discontent with the Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 and the fallout from India’s demonetisation drive that left many Nepalese in a financial lurch.
Striving for a Better Indo-Nepal Relationship
Resorting to quiet dialogue sensitive to both nations’ sentiments is the need of the hour. This approach, coupled with proactive engagement at various levels, can potentially strengthen ties. The power trade agreement should be devised to instill trust in Nepal towards India. Emphasising hydropower, the Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) needs attention from Nepal to attract more Indian investments.
India-Nepal Relations: Questions from Past Civil Services Examinations
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has previously posed questions related to the dynamics of India-Nepal relations. These questions touched upon issues ranging from bilateral trade to community issues. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade, the relevance of textiles in India-Bangladesh trade, and Nepal as India’s significant trading partner in South Asia were questioned in 2020. In 2016, the matching of communities to the correct countries, including Madhesi to Nepal, was a part of the exam. These past year questions serve as substantial study material for Civil Services aspirants, offering insight into the way forward for Indo-Nepal ties.
