INDIA-NEPAL 

India and Nepal share a long and intertwined history, marked by cultural, religious, and economic connections. 

• Ancient Ties: The historical connections between the people of India and Nepal date back to ancient times. There have been exchanges of culture, traditions, and religious practices, particularly due to the influence of Hinduism and Buddhism in the region.
• Political Relations: The emergence of powerful kingdoms in the Indian subcontinent, such as the Maurya and Gupta empires, influenced the political landscape of Nepal. Over the centuries, various dynasties ruled both regions, and they often maintained close ties.
• Medieval Period: During the medieval period, both regions witnessed the spread of Islam, and the Mughal Empire's influence in India impacted the political dynamics in Nepal. The rulers of Nepal maintained their autonomy during this period.
• The British Influence: As the British East India Company expanded its influence in the Indian subcontinent, the territories surrounding Nepal were affected. However, Nepal managed to remain independent and maintained its sovereignty.
• Anglo-Nepalese War (1814-1816): The Anglo-Nepalese War took place between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal. The war concluded with the signing of the Sugauli Treaty in 1815, which defined the boundary between British India and Nepal, establishing the Kali River as the western boundary of Nepal.
• Treaty of Friendship (1950): The Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed in 1950 between India and Nepal is a crucial document that governs their relations. The treaty establishes close ties, including provisions for free movement of people and goods between the two countries.
• Economic Cooperation: Over the years, economic cooperation has played a significant role in India-Nepal relations. Trade, transit facilities, and developmental assistance have been important aspects of their bilateral cooperation.
• Cultural and People-to-People Ties: The cultural affinities between the people of India and Nepal have remained strong. The open border allows for extensive people-to-people interactions, and shared religious practices, especially Hinduism, further contribute to the close bond between the two nations.
• India and Nepal boast robust defence cooperation. India supports Nepal's military modernization through equipment, training, and disaster assistance. Joint exercises like SURYA KIRAN foster collaboration. Since 1950, Chiefs of the Army exchanged honorary ranks, symbolizing the deep bond. Gorkha regiments showcase this connection further.

The India-Nepal border dispute, simmering for decades, continues to be a major point of contention between the two nations. Understanding the complexities of this issue requires delving into its historical roots, contested areas, and ongoing efforts towards resolution.

Tracing the Origins

• Treaty of Sugauli (1816): This treaty between the British East India Company and Nepal defined the initial border, but ambiguities in the document sowed the seeds of future disagreements.
• Kalapani Valley: This strategically located valley at the confluence of the Kali and Mahakali rivers is a major flashpoint. Both India and Nepal claim ownership, each citing historical records and maps.
• Lipulekh Pass: This mountain pass provides access to Kailash Mansarovar, a sacred pilgrimage site for Hindus. India's construction of a road here in 2020 reignited tensions.
• Susta Area: Located in Nepal's Terai region, this fertile land along the Gandak River is another disputed territory.

Impact of the Dispute

• Strained Bilateral Relations: The border issue casts a shadow on the otherwise friendly ties between India and Nepal.
• Local Communities Affected: Uncertain land ownership hampers development projects and impacts the lives of people living along the border.
• Security Concerns: Unresolved territorial claims can potentially pose security risks in the region.

Efforts Towards Resolution

• Joint Technical Level Boundary Working Group (JTLBWG): Established in the 1980s, this group has successfully demarcated most of the border but remains deadlocked on the disputed areas.
• Diplomatic Consultations: Both countries engage in regular talks to find a solution, but progress has been slow.
• Public Discourse: Civil society groups and media in both countries play a role in raising awareness and advocating for peaceful resolution.

Nepal is important to India for various strategic, cultural, economic, and geopolitical reasons. The close relationship between the two countries is rooted in historical, geographical, and sociocultural ties. Here are several reasons why Nepal is significant to India:

• Nepal shares a long and open border with India. This geographical proximity fosters people-to-people connections, facilitates trade, and allows for easy movement of goods and people between the two countries.
• India and Nepal share deep cultural and religious ties, with Hinduism being the predominant religion in both nations. Many Hindu pilgrimage sites, such as Pashupatinath Temple and Lumbini (the birthplace of Lord Buddha), are located in Nepal, attracting pilgrims from India.
• Nepal holds strategic importance for India due to its location between India and China. The geopolitical dynamics of the region make Nepal a crucial player in India's efforts to maintain regional stability and security.
• Several rivers originating in Nepal flow into India, making water resources a significant aspect of the relationship. Cooperation on river management and water-sharing agreements is essential for both countries.
• India and Nepal engage in extensive economic cooperation, including trade and transit agreements. The open border facilitates the movement of goods, contributing to economic integration between the two nations.
• Both countries share concerns related to regional security, including counter-terrorism and the maintenance of peace in the region. Collaboration on security matters is crucial for addressing common challenges.
• The historical relationship between India and Nepal is characterized by mutual respect and support. The Treaty of Peace and Friendship signed in 1950 solidified the close ties and included provisions for economic and security cooperation.
• India and Nepal maintain diplomatic relations at various levels. High-level visits and diplomatic engagements help in addressing bilateral issues and strengthening the overall relationship.
• As both India and China seek to expand their influence in the region, Nepal's strategic position becomes crucial. India aims to maintain strong ties with Nepal to counterbalance any growing influence from other countries, including China.
• Given the shared borders and historical connections, a stable and friendly Nepal is vital for ensuring overall regional stability. India's interests in maintaining peace and harmony in its neighbourhood underscore the importance of a positive relationship with Nepal.

• Balancing Act: Nepal often engages in a delicate balancing act between its two large neighbours, India and China. It seeks to maintain cordial relations with both countries while safeguarding its own interests.
• Infrastructure Projects: China's infrastructure projects in Nepal, particularly under the BRI, have been a source of concern for India. The geopolitical implications of such projects contribute to the complexity of trilateral relations.
• Regional Stability: Stability in Nepal is crucial for both India and China to ensure regional peace and security. The three countries have overlapping interests in maintaining stability in the Himalayan region.

6. India's Neighbourhood First Policy 

India's Neighbourhood First Policy is a strategic foreign policy initiative aimed at prioritizing and strengthening relations with its immediate neighbours. This policy, which gained prominence in the early 2000s, seeks to:

• Build friendly and mutually beneficial relationships with all neighbouring countries.
• Engage in active development partnerships through infrastructure projects, economic cooperation, and knowledge sharing.
• Create a stable and secure regional environment conducive to collective growth and prosperity.
• Promote regional cooperation and integration on issues like trade, security, and cultural exchange.

Key Pillars of the Policy

• Consultative and non-reciprocal approach: Engaging neighbours with respect for their sovereignty and prioritizing their needs.
• Focus on outcome-oriented solutions: Delivering tangible benefits through concrete projects and initiatives.
• People-to-people contacts: Fostering cultural exchange, educational opportunities, and tourism to build lasting bonds.
• Security cooperation: Addressing regional security threats through collaboration and joint efforts.

Examples of Implementation

• Boosting trade and investment: Free trade agreements, border trade facilities, and infrastructure development projects.
• Cooperation in energy, water resources, and disaster management: Sharing expertise, technology, and resources for mutual benefit.
• Cultural exchange programs: Promoting understanding and appreciation of each other's traditions and languages.
• Security partnerships: Joint training exercises, intelligence sharing, and border management cooperation.

Challenges and Opportunities

• Internal conflicts and political instability in some neighbouring countries can hinder progress.
• Competition from other major powers like China for influence in the region.
• Building trust and resolving bilateral issues like border disputes require ongoing dialogue and diplomacy.