‘Big brother’ to ‘Brother’, a Nepal-India reset
Source: The Hindu
For Prelims:
- Nepal-India relations and historical context
- Constitution adoption and blockade (2015)
- Geopolitical shifts in Nepal's foreign policy
- Hydropower and economic agreements between Nepal and India
- Remittances from Nepal to India
- South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
- Panchsheel doctrine
For Mains:
- Impact of India's blockade on Nepal (2015)
- Nepal's strategic balancing between India and China
- Role of leadership in shaping Nepal-India relations
- Economic interdependence and remittances
- Importance of regional cooperation through SAARC
- Principles of non-interference in international relations
Highlights of the Article:
- Historical tensions due to the 2015 constitution adoption and subsequent blockade by India
- Geopolitical shifts and Nepal's strengthened ties with China
- Recent diplomatic efforts and the re-election of leaders in both countries
- Critique of past Nepalese leadership and call for assertiveness
- Economic and strategic considerations, including hydropower agreements and remittances
- Recommendations for future relations, emphasizing mutual respect, non-interference, and regional cooperation
Context
The article "‘Big brother’ to ‘Brother’, a Nepal-India reset" discusses the complex and evolving relationship between India and Nepal, focusing on the need for a reset in bilateral ties. The historical context includes significant tensions arising from Nepal's adoption of a new constitution in 2015 and the subsequent blockade by India, which led to severe economic and social hardships in Nepal. In response, Nepal's foreign policy shifted towards strengthening ties with China.
UPSC EXAM NOTES ANALYSIS
Historical Context and Tensions
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Constitutional Adoption and Blockade (2015):
- The relationship between India and Nepal deteriorated significantly in 2015 when Nepal adopted a new constitution. India was dissatisfied with the constitution and imposed a blockade on Nepal, causing severe economic and social hardships.
- The blockade resulted in long-lasting negative sentiments towards India in Nepal
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Geopolitical Shifts:
- In response to the blockade, Nepal's then Prime Minister, K.P. Oli, signed several agreements with China, strengthening ties with Beijing and reducing dependency on India.
- Nepal's political maneuvering included amending its constitution to include the disputed Limpiyadhura-Kalapani region in its map, further straining relations with India
Recent Developments and Diplomatic Efforts
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Prime Ministerial Dynamics:
- Both Narendra Modi and K.P. Oli have returned to power in India and Nepal, respectively. Their previous tenures were marked by significant diplomatic challenges.
- The article suggests that their re-elections provide an opportunity to rebuild and stabilize the bilateral relationship
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Nepal’s Political Landscape:
- The tenure of Pushpa Kamal Dahal (Prachanda) as Nepal's Prime Minister is critiqued for his perceived submissiveness towards India, avoiding contentious issues during bilateral talks.
- As K.P. Oli takes charge again, there is a call for a more assertive stance from Nepal, advocating for balanced and respectful negotiations with India
Strategic and Economic Considerations
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Hydropower and Economic Agreements:
- Controversies around hydropower agreements, where India can refuse imports from projects involving Chinese contractors, highlight the intricate balance Nepal must maintain between its relations with India and China.
- The economic interdependence is underscored by the significant remittances sent from Nepal to India, benefiting the economies of Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha
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Border and Security Issues:
- The open border between Nepal and India is a focal point, representing both a strategic advantage and a security concern. The article emphasizes the need for mutual respect and understanding to maintain this openness
Recommendations for Future Relations
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Reviving SAARC:
- Reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is proposed as a strategic move to enhance regional cooperation and stability, benefiting all member countries, including India and Nepal.
- It is crucial for Nepal to assert its role in South Asia and for India to adopt a less overbearing approach to foster genuine partnership
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Non-Interference and Mutual Respect:
- The principle of non-interference, part of the Panchsheel doctrine, is highlighted as a guideline for India to follow in its dealings with Nepal.
- A respectful and equal partnership, where Nepal's sovereignty and decisions are acknowledged, is essential for long-term stability and cooperation in the region
Conclusion
The article underscores the need for India and Nepal to recalibrate their relationship from a hierarchical "big brother" dynamic to one of mutual respect and partnership. This involves addressing past grievances, ensuring non-interference in each other's internal matters, and leveraging regional platforms like SAARC for broader cooperation. The leadership in both countries has a pivotal role in achieving this reset, promoting stability and prosperity in South Asia
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Mains Practice Questions
1.Analyze the impact of the 2015 Indian blockade on Nepal’s socio-economic and political landscape. How did this event shape Nepal’s subsequent foreign policy towards India and China?
2.Discuss the role of leadership in shaping the bilateral relations between India and Nepal. How can the re-election of key leaders in both countries influence future diplomatic efforts?
3.Examine the economic interdependence between India and Nepal, with a focus on remittances and hydropower agreements. How do these economic ties affect the broader political relationship between the two countries?
4.Critically evaluate the strategic balancing act that Nepal must perform between India and China. What are the potential benefits and risks associated with Nepal’s foreign policy towards these two neighboring giants?
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