The Hindu Editorial Analysis- 14th May 2024 | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Stabilising India-Nepal ties in changing times 

Why in News?

In Nepal, there is a palpable sense of restlessness, dissatisfaction and uncertainty in the air these days because of the overall political and economic environment. While the transition to a full-edged democracy underpinned by credible political institutions seems to be an unending one, there is also confusion about the direction in which it is headed.

Details:

• The Sharda River, also called Kali River and Mahakali River, originates at Kalapani in the Himalayas at an elevation of 3,600 m (11,800 ft) in the Pithoragarh district in Uttarakhand.
• It flows along Nepal's western border with India and has a basin area of 14,871 km2.
• It joins Ghaghra River, a tributary of the Ganges.
• It takes the name Kali River from the union of the two streams at Gunji as it flows through the hills.
• After Brahmadev Mandi near Tanakpur, it enters the Terai plains, where it is called Sharda River.
• The Pancheshwar Dam, a joint venture of India and Nepal for irrigation and hydro-electric power generation was proposed on this river.

Background of relations:

1. Geography and People-to-People Ties:
   • Over 1850 km of shared border across five Indian states.
   • Free movement of people, with nearly 8 million Nepalese citizens living and working in India.
   • The unique provision allowing Nepalese citizens to enroll in Indian civil services and the Army.

2. Treaty of Peace and Friendship:
   • The 1950 Treaty forms the foundation for special relations.
   • Provisions grant facilities and opportunities to Nepalese citizens on par with Indian citizens.
   • Regular high-level visits and interactions maintain diplomatic ties.

3. Defence Cooperation:
   • India assists Nepal Army in modernization through equipment supply and training.
   • Joint military exercises, adventure activities, and bilateral visits strengthen defence cooperation.
   • Gorkha regiments in the Indian Army are partly recruited from Nepal.

4. Humanitarian Assistance - 2015 Earthquake:
   • Swift dispatch of NDRF teams and relief materials showcased solidarity.
   • Total relief assistance exceeded US$ 67 million.
   • A post-earthquake reconstruction package of US$ 1 billion was announced.

5. Connectivity and Development Partnership:
   • Broad-based development assistance focuses on grassroots infrastructure, health, water resources, and education.
   • Ongoing projects include cross-border rail links, integrated check posts, and border infrastructure development.
   • Lines of Credit and grants support infrastructure development.

6. Water Resources and Energy Cooperation:
   • A three-tier bilateral mechanism since 2008 addresses water resources, flood management, and hydropower.
   • Power Exchange Agreement since 1971 and the recent cross-border petroleum pipeline enhance energy cooperation.
   • India currently supplies about 600 MW of power to Nepal.

7. Economic Relations:
   • India is Nepal's largest trading partner.
   • Bilateral trade reached INR 57,858 crore in 2018-19.
   • Indian firms contribute over 30% of approved foreign direct investments in Nepal.

8. Education and Culture:
   • Around 3000 scholarships/seats provided annually to Nepalese nationals for various courses.
   • Initiatives in art, culture, academics, and media promote people-to-people contacts.
   • Indian community in Nepal includes professionals, businessmen, and laborers.

India’s importance to Nepal:

• Closest Foreign Employer: India stands as the primary foreign employer for Nepali citizens, offering diverse job opportunities and facilitating cultural integration.
• Prevalence of Indian Universities: Nepali students increasingly turn to Indian universities due to their aversion to learning Mandarin.
• Hydropower Potential: India emerges as the sole neighboring nation capable of harnessing Nepal's hydropower resources.
• Tourism Boost: Indian tourists significantly contribute to Nepal's thriving tourism industry.
• Special Relationship: India and Nepal enjoy a unique bond marked by friendship, cooperation, and an open border, fostering deep connections of kinship and shared culture.

Navigating Complex Dynamics

1. Perceptions and Faction Support: Misconceptions regarding India's support for the monarchy fuel anti-India sentiments, while accusations of backing specific Nepali factions like the Madhesi community exacerbate tensions.
2. Madhesi Community and India's Involvement: The Madhesi population in the Terai region shares historical ties with India, but allegations of Indian support for Madhesi groups lead to accusations of interference in Nepal's internal affairs.
3. Growing Chinese Influence: Nepal's closer ties with China and involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative alarm India, as China's investments reshape the dynamics of India-Nepal relations.
4. Boundary Disputes: Two significant boundary disputes, namely Kalapani and Susta, contribute to bilateral tensions due to differing interpretations of river origins and reliance on outdated British surveys.
   • Kalapani Dispute: A disagreement over the territory in Uttarakhand, India, where the River Kali originates, with conflicting interpretations of survey data.
   • Susta Dispute: A territorial disagreement in the Terai region further complicates boundary issues between the two nations.
5. Porous Border Challenges: The porous India-Nepal border poses security challenges, including the use of Nepalese territory by militants for infiltration and support from Nepalese Maoists to Indian Maoist groups.
6. Cross-Border Crimes: Nepal's special status makes the border susceptible to illegal activities such as militant hideouts, human trafficking, smuggling, and circulation of counterfeit currency.

Way Forward:

• Diplomatic Dialogue: Addressing boundary disputes through diplomatic channels to find amicable solutions.
• Enhanced Cooperation: Strengthening collaboration on security to combat cross-border crimes and maintain stability.
• People-to-People Ties: Promoting cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections to bridge gaps.
• Clear Communication: Ensuring clear communication to dispel misunderstandings and foster mutual trust.

Steps that can be taken

• Border Dispute Resolution: Initiate bilateral talks to address remaining border disputes and prioritize the completion of the ongoing process to update the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship.
• Addressing Aspirations: Recognize Nepal's desire for opportunities beyond its reliance on the open Indian border by facilitating innovation, technology transfer, educational exchanges, and skills development.
• Timely Infrastructure Completion: Ensure timely completion of infrastructure projects such as Pancheswar and address pending initiatives to enhance connectivity between the two nations.
• Diplomatic Solutions: Seek diplomatic resolutions for the boundary dispute, adhering to international law concerning trans-boundary water disputes.
• Non-Interference Policy: Commit to a policy of non-interference in Nepal's internal affairs while providing guidance toward fostering inclusive democracy.
• Strategic Considerations: Acknowledge Nepal's strategic significance for Indian security interests, emphasizing the importance of stability and security in the region.
• Comprehensive Policy Approach: Develop a comprehensive and long-term Nepal policy that extends beyond security concerns, focusing on building multifaceted relationships for mutual benefit.

Conclusion

India-Nepal relationship is multifaceted, reflecting a comprehensive partnership that spans diverse sectors. As both nations navigate the complexities of the global landscape, their enduring ties, mutual respect, and shared aspirations are poised to strengthen further, contributing to regional stability and prosperity. The diplomatic engagement and collaborative efforts between India and Nepal continue to serve as a testament to the enduring bonds between these two neighbors.