The relationship between Nepal and India has often been described as that of an older brother and younger brother, with India playing the dominant role. However, recent developments suggest a shift towards a more equal partnership. This change, termed as “Big Brother to Brother,” signifies a reset in Nepal-India relations, focusing on mutual respect and cooperation. Both countries are working together to strengthen their bond, addressing past misunderstandings, and collaborating on various fronts like trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges. This reset aims to create a more balanced and harmonious relationship, benefiting both nations equally.
Tags: GS-2, IR- India and its Neighbourhood- Effect of Policies & Politics of Countries on India’s Interests
Context:
- Since 2015, the leadership of Prime Ministers Narendra Modi of India and Khadga Prasad Oli of Nepal has marked a period of significant turbulence in bilateral relations.
- This era has been defined by diplomatic strains, economic blockades, and geopolitical manoeuvres, leaving a lasting impact on India-Nepal ties.
- However, the current political landscape offers an opportunity to recalibrate and stabilise these relations, with both leaders once again heading their respective governments.
India-Nepal Bilateral Turbulence:
- Nepal’s New Constitution and India’s Reaction:
- In 2015, Nepal adopted a new Constitution, aiming to solidify its transition to a federal democratic republic post a decade-long civil war.
- India expressed concerns over specific provisions, particularly regarding the representation and rights of the Madhesi community near the India-Nepal border.
- The Blockade:
- India imposed an unofficial blockade on Nepal in response to the new Constitution, severely restricting essential supplies like fuel, medicine, and food.
- Lasting nearly six months from late September 2015, the blockade exacerbated economic hardships and daily life challenges in Nepal, heavily reliant on Indian imports.
- While officially attributed to protests by Madhesi activists, many in Nepal and international observers believed it was politically motivated to pressure Kathmandu for constitutional amendments.
- Political and Economic Implications of the Blockade:
- The blockade strained diplomatic ties and had profound political and economic repercussions.
- It exacerbated Nepal’s challenges post the devastating April 2015 earthquake, leading to heightened nationalist sentiments and a strategic shift in Nepal’s foreign policy, notably towards China.
- Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli utilised the crisis to strengthen ties with China, influencing Nepal’s political landscape.
- Diplomatic Efforts to Restore Ties and Unresolved Issues:
- Following the blockade’s lifting in early 2016, efforts focused on rebuilding trust and cooperation through high-level visits and diplomatic engagements.
- However, the blockade’s legacy continued to cast a shadow over bilateral relations, highlighting complex issues of mutual dependence, sovereignty, and geopolitical strategies.
- Unresolved grievances, particularly those of the Madhesi community, remained contentious, impacting Nepal’s internal stability and its relationship with India
Post-Blockade Diplomatic and Political Strains between India and Nepal
- Territorial Disputes and Tensions
- Territorial Claims: In October 2019, India released an updated political map that included the disputed Limpiadora-Kalapani region, claimed by Nepal.
- Nepal’s Response: Nepal’s Parliament amended its Constitution to formally include the Limpiadora-Kalapani region in its national map, heightening tensions.
- Escalated Dispute: Nepal’s unilateral action exacerbated the dispute, revealing deep-seated mistrust and sensitivity surrounding border issues.
- Increased Indian Involvement in Nepali Politics:
- Modes of Involvement: India exerted political pressure, engaged in diplomatic manoeuvres, and supported specific political factions within Nepal.
- Perceptions in Nepal: Many in Nepal viewed India’s actions as interference in its internal affairs, contrary to the principles of non-interference and mutual respect under the Panchsheel doctrine.
- Cultural Influence: The RSS and BJP advocated a Hindutva agenda in Nepal, seeking closer alignment with Indian cultural and political norms.
- Perceived Overreach and Power Dynamics:
- Public Perception: Nepalis perceived India’s actions during and after the blockade as punitive and coercive, deepening mistrust.
- Political Dynamics: Under Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal (‘Prachanda’), India-Nepal relations were strained as Dahal faced accusations of yielding to Indian pressures.
- Contentious Issues: During Dahal’s tenure, sensitive topics such as air routes, territorial disputes, and the Eminent Persons’ Group report remained unresolved during visits to India.
Recent Developments:
- Arun-3 Hydro Electric Project
- Investment Approval: In 2019, India approved ₹1236 crore for the Arun-3 hydro project.
- Project Details: Located on the Arun River in Eastern Nepal, it is a 900 MW run-of-river project.
- Execution: Operates under the Build Own Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis with a 30-year tenure, including a five-year construction phase.
- International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage
- Inauguration: During the visit of the Indian Prime Minister, the ‘shilanyas’ ceremony launched the construction of the India International Centre for Buddhist Culture and Heritage in Lumbini Monastic Zone.
- Purpose: A world-class facility aimed at hosting pilgrims and tourists, emphasising Buddhism’s spiritual essence.
- Target Audience: Designed to cater to scholars and Buddhist pilgrims globally visiting Lumbini.
- Hydropower Projects
- Arun-4 Project: Agreements were signed between Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Ltd. and Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) for the development of the 490.2 MW Arun-4 hydropower project.
- West Seti Project: India invited Nepali companies to invest in the West Seti hydropower project, demonstrating mutual cooperation in energy infrastructure.
- Educational Initiatives:
- IIT Satellite Campus: India proposed establishing a satellite campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) in Rupandehi, highlighting educational collaboration.
- Draft MOUs: Draft memorandum of understanding were exchanged between Indian and Nepali universities to enhance educational partnerships.
- Infrastructure Projects:
- Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project: Discussions continued on the Pancheshwar Project, vital under the Mahakali Treaty, and the West Seti Hydropower Project, projecting a capacity of 1,200 MW.
- Cross-border Rail Link: Extending the operational 35 km rail link from Jayanagar (Bihar) to Kurtha (Nepal), with plans for further expansion to Bijalpura and Bardibas.
- Energy and Connectivity Initiatives:
- Double Circuit Transmission Line: A 90 km, 132 kV double circuit transmission line connecting Tila (Solukhumbu) to Mirchaiya (Siraha), enhancing cross-border energy connectivity.
- Multilateral Cooperation: Agreements included technical cooperation in railways, Nepal’s induction into the International Solar Alliance, and ensuring petroleum product supplies.
Challenges:
- Territorial Disputes
- Kalapani Issue: Unresolved territorial disputes, including Kalapani, remain contentious, impacting bilateral relations despite historical demarcation efforts.
- Treaty and Economic Issues
- 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship: Viewed by Nepal as unequal, necessitating revisiting to align with contemporary diplomatic norms and bilateral cooperation.
- Economic and Monetary Concerns
- Demonetisation Impact: Nepal faced challenges post-2016 Indian demonetisation, affecting Nepali nationals holding Indian currency and unresolved issues with the Nepal Rastra Bank.
- Geopolitical Shifts
- China’s Influence: Increasing Chinese investments in Nepal, especially under the Belt and Road Initiative, impacting regional dynamics and Nepal’s strategic autonomy.
- Security and Trust
- Border Security: Challenges in border security pose threats, exploited by insurgent groups and affecting regional stability and trust between India and Nepal.
Way Forward:
- Diplomatic Dialogue
- Territorial Dispute Resolution: Prioritise diplomatic channels and adherence to international law for resolving territorial disputes, learning from successful models like India-Bangladesh.
- Strengthening Relations
- People-to-People Engagement: Enhance cultural and educational exchanges to foster mutual understanding and trust.
- Economic Integration
- Trade and Investment: Strengthen economic ties through robust trade agreements, investment promotion, and collaborative infrastructure projects.
- Mutual Respect and Cooperation
- Policy Alignment: Uphold principles of mutual respect, non-interference, and inclusive development, supporting Nepal’s sovereignty and stability.
- Strategic Partnerships
- Regional Connectivity: Expand cross-border connectivity and energy partnerships, benefiting both nations economically and strategically.
UPSC Civil Services Exam Previous Year Questions (PYQs)
Prelims:
Q:1 Consider the following statements: (2020)
- The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
- “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
- In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 only
- 2 only
- 3 only
Answer: B
Q:2 Consider the following pairs: (2016)
Community In the affairs of
- Kurd Bangladesh
- Madhesi Nepal
- Rohingya Myanmar
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
- 1 and 2 Only
- 2 only
- 2 and 3 Only
- 3 only
Answer: C
Mains:
Q:1 ‘The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the oppressed and marginalised nations has disappeared on account of its newfound role in the emerging global order.’ Elaborate. (2019)
Source: TH
FAQs
Q: What does “Big Brother to Brother” mean in the context of Nepal-India relations?
Answer: “Big Brother to Brother” refers to a shift in the relationship between Nepal and India, moving from one where India was seen as the dominant partner (“Big Brother”) to a more equal, respectful partnership (“Brother to Brother”).
Q: Why is there a need to reset Nepal-India relations?
Answer: The reset is needed to address past issues and misunderstandings, improve mutual respect, and work together more effectively on shared interests like trade, security, and cultural exchanges. This reset aims to create a more balanced and cooperative relationship.
Q: What are the main areas of cooperation in the Nepal-India reset?
Answer: The main areas include trade and economic development, infrastructure projects, energy cooperation, cultural and educational exchanges, and addressing security concerns. These areas are crucial for the prosperity and stability of both countries.
Q: How can this reset benefit both Nepal and India?
Answer: A reset can lead to stronger economic ties, better infrastructure, and improved energy resources, benefiting both nations. It can also enhance security and foster goodwill, making it easier to solve any future issues through dialogue and cooperation.
Q: What challenges might arise in resetting Nepal-India relations?
Answer: Challenges may include overcoming historical mistrust, political differences, and managing public perceptions. Both countries will need to work diligently to address these issues and ensure that the reset is successful and beneficial for all involved.
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