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16th July 2024 (11 Topics)

Big brother’ to ‘Brother’, a Nepal-India reset

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Context

There is an opportunity to upgrade India-Nepal relations with Narendra Modi reclaiming the Indian Prime Minister position for a third term and Khadga Prasad Oli becoming the Prime Minister of Nepal.

Historical Challenges and Recent Turbulence:

  • Constitutional Controversy: Bilateral relations deteriorated since 2015 due to India's opposition to Nepal's new Constitution and subsequent economic blockade.
  • Inflammatory Statements: Controversial statements by Oli, including claims about Ayodhya's location and India's aggressive stance, further strained relations.
  • Territorial Disputes: Territorial disputes arose following India's updated political map in 2019, leading to Nepal amending its Constitution to include the Limpiyadhura-Kalapani triangle.

India's Involvement and Hindutva Influence:

  • Political Interference: Increased Indian involvement in Nepal's governance and politics, including covert activities and promotion of Hindutva ideology.
  • Ideological Reshaping: RSS and BJP attempts to reshape Nepal in their vision of India.
  • Future Concerns: Concerns in Kathmandu about Modi's third term and its implications for bilateral relations.

Opportunities for Resetting Relations:

  • Policy Recalibration: Need for policy corrections in India's 'Neighbourhood First' initiative, starting with Nepal.
  • Non-Interference Approach: Importance of adopting a hands-off policy to promote political stability and economic growth in Nepal.
  • Economic Recognition: Recognition of Nepal's economic significance, including its status as the seventh-largest remittance-sending country to India.
UPSC Mains Questions:

Q. Evaluate the economic and strategic importance of Nepal for India. How can both countries leverage their geographical proximity for mutual benefit?

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