Building Ties Beyond Borders: India Nepal Relations UPSC
In the intricate tapestry of international relations, the connection between India and Nepal stands out as a tale of close friendship and familial bonds. Rooted in history, this relationship is often referred to as the Roti-Beti relationship, symbolizing the deep cultural and familial connections shared by the two nations.
Historical Foundations : India Nepal Relations UPSC
The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, dating back to 1950, serves as a testament to the enduring ties between these close neighbors. This treaty goes beyond diplomatic niceties, treating citizens of both nations as their own and allowing for the free movement of people across the border.
Navigating New Realities
While historical bonds are cherished, the 21st century demands a relationship that encompasses a broader spectrum of cooperation. As the two nations strive to establish a contemporary partnership, challenges in the form of territorial disputes have emerged, testing the resilience of this historical friendship.
Territorial Challenges
Recent times have seen territorial disputes casting shadows over the India-Nepal relationship. The release of new official maps by Nepal, claiming regions in contention, has further complicated matters. Moreover, the inflammatory statement by the Prime Minister of Nepal, attributing COVID-19 cases to India, adds fuel to the fire.
Pendulum of Relations
For a neutral observer, the diplomatic ties between India and Nepal seem to oscillate between phases of harmony and discord. This oscillation presents a formidable challenge for India’s foreign policy establishment. The Indian states sharing a border with Nepal, including Bihar, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal, bear witness to the complexities of this relationship. The total border length of 1751 kilometers is guarded by the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
As India and Nepal navigate the complexities of the present, the challenge lies in transforming historical ties into a robust partnership that accommodates the dynamics of the contemporary world. Balancing tradition with modernity remains a delicate task, requiring diplomatic finesse and a commitment to mutual understanding.
Fostering Collaboration: Pillars of India Nepal Relations Cooperation
In the intricate tapestry of India-Nepal relations, several pillars of cooperation stand tall, encompassing diverse realms of mutual interest and benefit.
1. Defence and Strategic Relations
Arms and Modernization: India has played a pivotal role in supporting the modernization efforts of the Nepali Army by providing weapons and technological upgrades.
Joint Military Exercises: The collaborative spirit extends to joint military exercises, prominently exemplified by the ‘Surya Kiran’ exercise, held alternately in both nations. The 2019 edition unfolded on Nepalese soil.
Honorary Ranks: Symbolizing the depth of friendship, the Chiefs of Army Staff (COAS) from both nations hold honorary ranks of General in each other’s army.
Gurkha Rifles: The Indian Army boasts the service of Nepali citizens in various Gurkha Rifles regiments.
Security Dynamics: While Nepal is integral to India’s security, it maintains the capacity to defend itself against external threats. The issue of terror groups operating in border regions is a shared concern that demands urgent attention.
Economic Collaborations: To diminish Nepal’s reliance on China, joint projects involving India, Japan (part of the Afro-Asia Growth Corridor Project), and the US (through Triangular Development Cooperation) should be explored.
Regional Alliances: Both nations are active members of SAARC, BIMSTEC, and SASEC, fostering regional cooperation.
2. Economic Cooperation, Connectivity Projects, and Development Assistance
Bilateral Trade: India holds the position of Nepal’s largest trading partner, with total bilateral trade worth USD 8.27 Billion in 2018-2019. However, trade balance leans significantly in India’s favor.
Investments: Over 150 Indian firms operate in Nepal, contributing to more than 30% of approved investments.
Challenges in Economic Development: Despite India’s efforts for Nepal’s economic development, challenges persist, indicating a need to address the existing trust deficit.
Development Projects and Relief: India has been actively involved in development projects and relief efforts. Post the 2015 earthquake crisis, India pledged and granted financial aid, focusing on constructing houses, and supporting health, education, and cultural heritage sectors.
Infrastructure Development: Collaborative efforts include upgrading 10 roads in the Terai region, railway link projects, and integrated check posts at key locations. Both nations actively participate in the BBIN road connectivity project.
Agricultural Partnership: In 2018, the ‘New Partnership in Agriculture’ was initiated, emphasizing research, development, and education in the agricultural sector.
As India and Nepal navigate the complexities of collaboration, these pillars serve as a foundation for fostering stronger ties and shared prosperity. The journey forward entails addressing challenges, building trust, and embracing the multifaceted potential of this enduring friendship.
Navigating Challenges: India Nepal Relations UPSC
Embarking on a journey fraught with complexities, India and Nepal traverse a path colored by history, collaboration, and the inevitable challenges that test the resilience of their relationship.
1. Energy Cooperation
Energy Exchange: India and Nepal, both grappling with energy demands, maintain over 20 cross-border transmission lines. A 2014 agreement on ‘Electric Power Trade, Cross-border Transmission Interconnection, and Grid Connectivity’ paved the way for enhanced cross-border power trade, with India presently supplying about 600 MW of power to Nepal.
Hydro-power Dynamics: While progress in hydro-power projects, including the Pancheshwar Dam, faces delays, the inauguration of the first cross-border petroleum line in 2019 marked a significant milestone.
2. Cultural Relations
Civilization Ties: Rooted in historical and civilization bonds, the ‘Roti-Beti’ relationship symbolizes the close ties between the two nations.
Buddhism Legacy: The shared legacy of Buddhism, with Lumbini as Lord Buddha’s birthplace in Nepal and significant life events in India, creates a cultural bridge. Sister city agreements between Varanasi-Kathmandu and Ayodhya-Janakpur, along with bilateral pilgrimages, further strengthen cultural exchanges.
People’s Movement: Domiciled Indians in Nepal contribute to various sectors, and both nations witness people’s movement, fostering a dynamic cultural connection.
3. Issues and Challenges
Anti-India Sentiments: Political encouragement of anti-Indian sentiments among the masses in Nepal poses challenges. The blame on India for internal issues exacerbates tensions.
Political Instability: Nepal’s political landscape, marked by instability and constitutional struggles, especially post-2007, has witnessed interference allegations against India. Challenges like the blockade in response to perceived concerns in the Terai region underscore the need for diplomatic resolution.
Evolving Relations: India’s cultural engagement contrasts with Nepal’s economic aspirations. Striking a balance between the ‘special relationship’ and practical economic cooperation is crucial. Calls for amending the India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1950, highlight evolving perspectives.
Security and Border Dispute: A historical border dispute, rooted in the Treaty of Sugauli (1816), persists. The open border, while symbolizing historical ties, poses security challenges with reports of infiltration by terror groups.
Territorial Claims: Territorial disputes, including the depiction of ‘Kalapani’ in Indian maps, require nuanced dialogue. The Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh, and Susta regions remain focal points, demanding diplomatic resolution.
As India and Nepal navigate these intricate terrains, collaborative efforts, diplomatic dialogues, and an understanding of evolving dynamics can pave the way for a resilient and mutually beneficial relationship. The journey ahead involves addressing challenges with a forward-looking perspective, nurturing trust, and embracing shared aspirations.
The Expanding Dragon’s Influence: Navigating India-Nepal Dynamics
Embarking on new avenues of collaboration, China’s robust economic, military, and strategic involvement in Nepal has garnered attention, causing a certain unease in India’s diplomatic corridors.
1. Chinese Footprints in Nepal
One Belt One Road (OBOR): Nepal’s entry into China’s OBOR initiative in 2017 marked a significant shift in regional dynamics. The subsequent agreement in 2019 to construct an all-weather road linking Kathmandu with the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) raised eyebrows, contributing to India’s discomfort.
Trans-Himalayan Connectivity: The ambitious ‘Trans-Himalayan Multi-dimensional Connectivity Network’ outlined in 2018 set the stage for infrastructural projects, including the Shigatse-Gyirong railway link, raising concerns about extended connectivity towards the Indian border.
Proximity Concerns: Nepal’s geographical proximity to India’s vital Siliguri corridor, often termed India’s “chicken neck,” amplifies apprehensions about strategic safety.
2. Collaborative Path Forward
Renewable Energy Focus: Fostering collaboration in renewable energy and sustainable development emerges as a potential area of mutual benefit. Both nations’ participation in the International Solar Alliance lays a foundation for shared efforts in this realm.
Environment Conservation: Recognizing the fragility of the Himalayan ecosystem shared by India and Nepal, joint efforts in environment conservation become imperative to prevent ecological imbalances and potential disasters.
River Data Exchange: Enhancing cooperation in sharing hydrological data is vital, especially considering the flooding challenges faced by regions like Bihar, attributed to insufficient data exchange and unplanned development.
Trade and Technology: Leveraging India’s prowess in information technology, manufacturing, and cutting-edge innovations presents opportunities for economic collaboration. Emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, IoT, and space-related advancements offer unexplored potential for joint initiatives.
Security Treaty Amendment: In the interest of both nations, addressing the evolving dynamics and amending existing treaties becomes crucial. Encouraging Nepal to refrain from fostering anti-Indian sentiments while recognizing the open border’s dual role in facilitating livelihoods and maintaining security is paramount.
Trust-Building Measures: Recognizing the trust deficit in official interactions, efforts must be directed towards building mutual trust and dispelling any lingering anti-Indian sentiments. The focus should be on fostering people-to-people connections to mitigate potential animosity.
In conclusion, as Nepal delicately navigates its relationships with both India and China, bridging the trust deficit becomes imperative for fostering meaningful diplomatic ties. Collaborating on shared challenges, exploring economic opportunities, and building a foundation of mutual respect can pave the way for a harmonious coexistence in the complex geopolitical landscape.
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