A Pragmatic and Liberal Approach to

Nepal India Relations: A Comprehensive

Analysis

Rajib Kumar Jha1*, Dr. Durga Nanad Jha2

1 Research Scholar, CMJ University, Jorabat, Meghalaya

2 Associate Professor, Political Science, CMJ University, Jorabat, Meghalaya

Abstract - We begin with historical narratives that represent Nepal-India ties as being built on

historical, cultural, economic, and geopolitical dimensions and mutual respect of sovereignty.

The Nepal-India relationship is complex and multifaceted, with historical, cultural, economic,

and geopolitical dimensions. A liberal and realistic view on this relationship in the

contemporary geopolitical context would involve acknowledging both the positive aspects of

cooperation and addressing the challenges that have emerged over time. A liberal perspective

would emphasize the deep cultural and historical ties between Nepal and India. They both

share social, economic, and political advancement. Problems, hazards, and uncertainties

have been brought about as a result of globalization in relation to the flow of people, products,

and capital. Because of this, border governance has developed among states, which

necessitates the cooperation of neighboring states in the development of border management

systems. The research was a qualitative study that followed the "practice turn" in International

Relations (IR) and took into consideration human actions that affect social realities. The

research focused on the open border between Nepal and India during this time period.

According to the research, the open border that exists between Nepal and India provides a

number of specific benefits along with risks and challenges. Within this essay, a concise

explanation of border government is provided. It describes theories and techniques, as well as

recommends border governance for open borders between Nepal and India. The issues of

border governance for Nepal-India boundaries is emphasized in the study, which

acknowledges the existence of border disputes and significant footraces.

Keyword - Border, political, social, relationship

INTRODUCTION

Nepal and India relationship of friendship and cooperation is unique, with open borders and deep-

rooted people–to–people contact of kinship, tradition, religion and culture. From the time immemorial

people have no restrictions to move across border like the same nation. Nepal has an area of 147,181

Sq. Km. and a population of 29 million shares a border of over 1850 Km with India in the east, south

and west with five Indian States - Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The

adjoining provinces of Nepal are province Koshi, Madhes, Lumbini, Bagmati and No 7 province. The

country borders with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in north. The overarching of the great

Himalayas in north, monsoon climatic conditions, the southward flowing of the perennial rivers and

creation of Gangetic plains and many fertile valleys together give way for the development of a very

rich civilization which both countries share. The civilization of traditional (Hindu) religion in which

hermits, saints and great scholars created many religious, cultural, Yoga, Astronomical and

Mathematical researches, science and literatures of great fame, many precious scriptures are the

common heritage of the both countries. The advancement of this civilization was enjoyed by the

people together and the common adoption of culture in festivals, rituals and ceremonies are still

reflected in the day-to-day life of people. Nepal India migration pattern is unique in the sense of free

accession for the people of both countries. History indicates that in different ages migration have

surged across Nepal from India since the dawn of civilization. According to the ancient history Lord

Krishna came with his fellow Yadavs to Kathmandu valley fought with demon Vanasur killed him and

enthroned Gopal dynasty to rule the kingdom. (1)

Nepal-India Diplomatic Relationship in A Historical Context

Nepal is a small country that is surrounded by two huge countries that are geographically close to it:

India and China. It has open borders with India in the east, west, and south, but the Himalayan

boundary forms a barrier that prevents it from transport access with China, which is its neighbor up

north. For this reason, King Prithvi Narayan Shah used the analogy of a yam that was sandwiched

between two large stones to depict the position of Nepal. An intricate collection of elements has

played a significant role in the formation of Nepal's foreign policy as well as the dynamics of its

relationship with its neighbors. One of the primary factors that contributes to its international

connections is its geographical position, among other factors. An excellent case study of the

complexity that a tiny state in a difficult geopolitical scenario experience as a result of the incursions

and policy directives of the great powers presents itself in the form of Nepal's foreign policy.

Not only are Nepal and India connected by the proximity of land, but they are also connected by

cultural connections, shared language and ethnic identities, religious traditions, a shared love of

cuisine, and other similarities. As a result of India's political dominance over Nepal ever since the

country gained its independence, one school of thought considers this to be something that was

purposefully manufactured. On the other hand, other individuals believe it to be historical inter-

linkages between cities and nations. The connection between India and Nepal is one that has been

around for a very long time and is intimately interconnected (.ochhar, 2 13). This is true regardless of

the perspective from which one examines it. In the historical backdrop, nations that share borders also

share culture, religion, and other complexities of day-to-day living. This cultural and religious

relationship also exists between the people of Nepal and India.(2)

Recurring Trade Blockades in Nepal-India

The Treaty of Peace and Friendship that had been made between Nepal and India in 1950 was

updated in 1960, and in addition to that, Nepal signed the Gandaki river accord at the same time.

India was granted permission to utilize the Gandaki river, which has its source in Nepal, for the

purpose of irrigation in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh. In spite of Nepal's riverine

rights, the benefits that were obtained by Nepal were less than five percent of the benefits that were

anticipated to be obtained by India.

Within the first decade of the 1960s, the political climate between the two neighbors became more

tense. The primary reason for this was that India was attempting to use the wide-ranging nature of the

provisions contained within the Treaty of Peace and Friendship for its own benefit, and in many

instances, it was putting Nepal in a precarious position. During this time period, it was also shown that

the execution of aid agreements might be highly varied from one another. Efforts to provide

assistance to India picked up the pace. Additionally, India informally advocated for a more stringent

control over Nepal's imports and exports, all the while taking advantage of the flaws that were there in

the treaty that was signed in 1960. These activities culminated in the "Raxual blockade," which lasted

for many weeks in 1962 and was the culmination of these events. The authorities in India prevented

any and all commodities from India from being transported to Nepal.

In 1962, China and India were involved in a conflict with one another. As a result of the China-India

conflict that took place in 1962, sometimes referred to as the Sino-Indian war, Nepal became an

increasingly important country for both India and China. Previously, Nepal had refused to consider

itself a buffer state in the military sense, but after 1962 it found itself in the role of an ideological buffer

mentioned that The rivalry has also led both sides to compete for influence in their peripheries,

especially in %urma and Nepal, and to resent the spread of the other’s infuence close to their

borders.(3)

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

1. To safeguard national interests, integrity and independence along with the mutual cooperation

between two countries and enhancement of people to people contact and faith.

2. To scan the status of non-alignment, mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and

sovereignty, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, respect for mutual equality, non-

aggression and the peaceful settlement of disputes, and cooperation for mutual benefit as per

the guiding principles

The present foundation of this special relation in between Nepal and India lies on India–Nepal Treaty

of Peace and Friendship of 1950. The provisions of this Treaty, bestows the citizens of both countries

to enjoy unparalleled advantages, avail facilities and opportunities at par with the native citizens. This

Treaty, however, facilitates Nepal to overcome the difficulties of land–locked condition. Over the

years, some political party in Nepal has raised the issue of disadvantages on Nepal side and call for

reconsideration of the treaty. On the other hand, India is willing to examine all bilateral arrangements

with a view to further strengthening the relations. Specific and consolidated suggestions from the

Nepalese side have not been impending.

The 1950 Peace and Friendship Treaty Articles 5, 6 and 7 were the key components of the treaty.

Article 5 allowed Nepal access to purchase weaponry and armor from India. Article 6 established

national treatment for both Indian and Nepalese businesses (ie once imported, foreign goods would

be treated no differently than domestic goods). Article 7 established reciprocal treatment of Indian and

Nepali citizens in the two countries, in residence, property, business and movement. Article 5

especially signaled an establishment of potential for deeper ties between the two countries.

That strain ultimately resulted in public mass movement under leadership of Nepali congress and

UML. This movement brought in the restoration of the multiparty parliamentary democracy in Nepal in

1990. The visits and meets in the early 90s between Indian and Nepalese leaders, trade ties resumed

again with the signing of new treaties became possible. In 2000s King Gyanendra dissolved the

parliament dreamed for powerful monarchy again but it could not remain longer and was overthrown

by massive public movement in 2006.

India is the largest foreign investor in Nepal, providing aid and construction of hydro power projects in

Nepal. The amount of $1 billion credit is extended. Being conscious about these developments, China

too has made remarkable efforts to maintain a presence in Nepal, by facilitating easier trade, road

connectivity (BRI) projects, and railway and hydropower projects. Hundreds of millions of dollars have

also been pledged to Nepal by China for infrastructure and even military aid.(4)

2017 the Madhes crisis was aroused, when people from the Madhesi community setup blockades at

vital border crossings for trade with India. They protested for better representation in Nepal’s

constitution. This resulted in tensions between India and Nepal, with then Nepal asked India for the

removal of official blockade. However, India denied its role, stating that internal movements and

conflict in Nepal were the cause behind the blockade. New endeavors had been tried to normalize the

tensions by improving infrastructures and post-earthquake reconstructions.

Nepal-India Relations: Beyond Realist and Liberal Theories

Some of the images that are ingrained in the minds of Nepalese students during their formative years

in high school are those of Nepal as the Shangri-La, which is characterised by the phrase "sundar,

shanta, bishal" (beautiful, peaceful, and great), the land of the courageous Gurkhas, and the nation

that has never been colonised by foreign powers. When it comes to Nepal-India ties, which predate

the establishment of modern nation-states, history textbooks are quick to praise the warmth and

coexistence that have always been a part of these relationships. In addition, Nepal and India are

depicted as the countries from whence the most ancient eastern ideologies, Hinduism and Buddhism,

arose. Additionally, Nepal and India are recognised as the places from which the Nepali and Hindi

languages evolved from the same Sanskrit roots. The majority of students in high school are taught

this story, which portrays the present-day countries of Nepal and India as having previously been a

large expanse of country that was culturally united. This narrative is referred to as the Bharat Khanda

in the Veda and the Purana epics to hammer home the idea.(5)

After giving it some thought, it is abundantly evident that such discourses about the connections

between the two nations are very deceptive and run the danger of a critical comprehension of the

other side of the tale. A single story has the potential to both create a disputed area and represent a

threat to the audience. It gives rise to generalisations. According to Adichie (2009), the issue with

stereotypes is not that they are not accurate; rather, the difficulty for them is that they are incomplete.

An equally important aspect of the relationship between Nepal and India has been the existence of a

"paradox" between the two countries' proximity and their distance from one another (Tripathi, 2019).

The other side of the story, which has been entirely overlooked and avoided in Nepal's school

education system as well as in certain political grand narratives, is the subject of this article, which

provides a critical analysis of the side of the narrative. This article unearths the historically subdued

narratives, despite the fact that they may appear to be invisible and may sound well-meaning at times,

in order to argue that Nepal-India relations are indeed mired in Indian hegemony, and not just in its

paternalism. This is because India exerts direct influence over a wide spectrum of Nepal's sovereignty

and independence.

The Nepal-India Open Border Governance Idea

In an increasingly globalised world, it is not uncommon for human beings, products, and financial

resources to travel from one country to another across international borders. boundaries, which have

existed in various forms over the course of human history, have been utilised for "bordering,"

"ordering," and "othering" (van Toum & van Naerssen, 2002). This is despite the fact that there are

liberals who are in favour of the concept of international boundaries being eliminated. According to

Brambilla (2015), boundaries have been a venue for the imposition and presentation of authority

throughout a large portion of the history of the world. In light of this, the regulation of such

transnational movements is predominantly concentrated at the frontiers (Brambilla, 2015). According

to Leibenath et al. (2008), contemporary security discourses have been reoriented as a result of

border disputes, illicit migration and commerce, unconventional security threats, and technology

breakthroughs. These factors have brought to light the significance of border governance. It is

possible that this essentiality for border governance is a reflection of border control and management;

nevertheless, it is really referring to the responsibility of the system that controls the border.(6)

Relationship Between India And Nepal: A Review Of The Treaties

The connection between India and Nepal is one that is extremely close, all-encompassing, and

multifaceted respectively. On the east, west, and south sides, Nepal is completely surrounded by

India. Nepal is essentially cut off from India as a result of this, as it is dependent on India for access to

several foreign markets and the sea. Without a shadow of a doubt, Nepal has a lengthy border with

the Tibet area of China; yet, the steep terrain that separates the two countries makes it impossible to

travel between the two countries for any practical reason. Both India and Nepal share the magnificent

Himalayas, which have, for centuries, served as barriers to the incoming influences and military

adventures into India from the north. Not only do India and Nepal share 1700 kilometers of border that

is completely open and accessible without any natural barrier, without any restrictions on the

movement of people and goods, but they also share the Himalayas.1. Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar,

Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are the five Indian states that Nepal shares a border with.2. Nepal is

dependent on India not just for its domestic commerce but also for international trade and transit

concerns (i.e., by utilizing twenty-two mutual trade routes and fifteen transit routes via India to reach

the nearest Indian sea port Kolkata). This dependence is a result of the geographical considerations

that have been mentioned. Historically, culturally, linguistically, and economically, India and Nepal

have been interwoven due to geography, which has also entwined their histories. Religious beliefs, in

addition to other elements, have established a solid basis for relationships. In addition to these

reasons, the relationship between the two nations has been formed by the ongoing interaction

between citizens, which has occurred from ancient times and occurred via activities such as

pilgrimage, trade, employment, and marriage. In a formal sense, the connection between two is

controlled by various treaties, not only in India after it gained its independence, but also in India

before it gained its independence, the relationship was governed by certain treaties that were made

between both Nepal and British India. (Treaties ?)

Border governance for Nepal-India open border

In light of the opportunities and difficulties that would be presented by the open international border

between Nepal and India, it is recommended that the idea of effective border governance be

implemented. Both nations are aware of the benefits and dangers associated with openness; yet, they

have not been able to come up with a strategy that is both cooperative and acceptable. To achieve

actual peace, security, and stability, as well as economic and social growth among the nation-states

that border one another, border governance blends collaborative border management with parallel

law via the use of parallel legislation. Therefore, in order to address the issues, Nepal and India,

which are situated in close proximity to one another, should progressively and realistically adopt the

concept of border administration. It is possible that a more collaborative approach to border

management might be achieved via the application of certain concepts about border governance.(7)

The contemporary concept of border governance, which takes a progressive approach, would be of

fair advantage to both nations, while at the same time fighting against the issues that have been

occurring. It is possible that a more collaborative approach to border management might be achieved

via the application of certain concepts about border governance.

Putting Forward the Concept of Border Governance for the Nepal-India Border Open the Border

Figure 1: Principles of border governance

One of the most crucial aspects of international relations between any two nations, including Nepal

and India, is the respect for the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence of each of the

governments involved. Whenever there is a bilateral connection between Nepal and India, there is

always the possibility that there could be conflicts or difficulties. Nevertheless, both nations

acknowledge the value of respecting these principles of international law and have shown a

willingness to resolve any issues via channels of communication, diplomatic channels, and bilateral

methods.

In accordance with the Constitution of Nepal, Nepal's interactions with other nations are directed by its

foreign policy, which is founded on the ideals of the United Nations Charter, non-alignment, and

Panchsheel (five principles of peaceful coexistence), as well as international law and the importance

of global peace (Constitution of Nepal, 2015). The goal of Nepal's foreign policy is not to exert

influence on the world stage; rather, it is to prioritize the maintenance of the country's autonomy, the

growth of the domestic economy, the maintenance of social peace, and the resolution of security

concerns. Nepal’s foreign relations in consonance with the policies and guidelines of Government of

Nepal are made to protect Nepal’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and enhance

national interest abroad; to promote bilateral, regional and multilateral relations for the socio-

economic development of the country, to promote friendly relations with all the countries of the world

and particularly with its immediate neighbors, on the basis of sovereign equality, mutual respect, trust,

goodwill and understanding to play an active role in the United Nations and other international

organizations, in order to promote international peace, security and development to play a positive

and meaningful role in the world (MOFA (2017).

In light of Nepal's strategic position, Savada argues that the country needs to cultivate amicable

relations with both of its neighboring nations and avoid aligning itself with any of them. Nepal's foreign

policy was primarily focused on maintaining strong and amicable ties with China and India, as well as

protecting Nepal's national security and independence (Savada, 1991). This was due to Nepal's

geographical closeness to both of these nations as well as its historical connections with both of them.

According to Bhattarai (2013), in order for the nation to successfully implement the second pro-

democracy movement, it is necessary for the government to analyze its conduct of foreign policy in

the context of those developments, and then construct and adopt its foreign policy accordingly. Over

the course of the last two years, Nepal has made a number of real initiatives to foster goodwill and

deep economic and social ties with India. This approach is being adopted with regard to all of Nepal's

neighbors. However, nationalist emotions in each of these nations, which are often directed against

India as the dominant force in the region, will continue to be a concern (Jaishankar, 2016). In order to

fulfill its obligations, Nepal must evaluate its previous treaties and engage into agreements and

treaties that are founded on equality and mutual benefit.(8)

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

In order to handle the difficulties in a methodical manner, research technique is essential. A

researcher is required to follow a series of consecutive stages, which are referred to as "steps." The

term "research method" refers to the assortment of procedures and procedures that are used

throughout the whole of the investigation. The research issue may be solved in a methodical manner

using this method. Specifically, it may investigate the numerous stages that are often taken by a

researcher in the process of analysing his or her research topic, as well as the reasoning that

underpins those phases. The design of the study, the type of the data, the technique for acquiring the

data, the population and samples, and the processes for processing the data are all covered in this

chapter.(9)

Research Design

The word "research design" refers to a conceptual framework that serves as the framework for doing

research. In order to conduct any kind of research that is capable of achieving the goals of the study,

it is vital to have a research design that has been carefully established. One definition of a research

design is the compilation of methodologies and procedures with the purpose of obtaining the required

information. It is the overarching procedural outline or framework of the project that specifies the

sources from which information is to be obtained and the technique that will be followed to acquire the

information. A plan of action that is to be carried out in conjunction with a research assignment is

referred to as a thesis or dissertation. A conceptual framework for doing research, it serves as a guide

for data collection, measurement, and analysis. It is the conceptual structure for conducting research.

This is a fairly broad topic to discuss. The focus of this current study design is primarily on the social

and political relations that exist between Nepal and India over the open border. What kind of effects

does the political relationship between two nations have on the social, economic, cultural, and

interpersonal relationships between the two countries respectively?

In order to assess the significance of the connection that exists between two neighbours, both

analytical and descriptive methods were used. On the basis of secondary data sources, a discussion

was held about the essential aspects of politics, diplomacy, and foreign policy. For the purpose of this

investigation, a variety of writers' works from a variety of libraries were used as references. (10)

In light of the fact that it focuses primarily on the past and current circumstances of relationships, this

study is an example of a descriptive exploratory research design. This is a process that involves the

gathering, appraisal, and verification of evidence from the past, as well as the impacts of the past in

the context of the present. This research is an investigation of historical facts, policy, and diplomacy,

as well as the link between individuals in the past and the present within the framework of a

continually shifting geopolitical environment.(11)

The main sources are: The original documents are considered primary sources. The first witness to a

fact is this information. There are primary sources. Information in the form of oral or written testimony

or records kept and written by actual participants or witnesses of an Event such as letters, diaries,

autobiography, reports, government documents, periodicals, interview, etc. Secondary Sources: it is

not always possible to obtain primary evidence so at that time the researcher had to rely on

secondary sources. A person who is neither a witness or participant in an incident is the one who

obtains information. Materials such as history, encyclopedias, novels, and other similar publications

are examples of secondary sources.

Research gap & Uniqueness of the study

There is a wealth of literature that has been produced on the relationship between Nepal and India.

This literature may be found in books, journals, treaties, papers, and speeches delivered by politicians

and punlicatins from both countries' ministries of foreign affairs and embassies. Virtually every piece

of literature demonstrates the singularity of the open border, cultural, social, and religious connections

gap that exists between these nations. Additionally, they emphasise the tie between the bread and

the bride, and they share the same social traditions and culture. (12)

Evidently, there is no research of the challenges that people face while living in close proximity to the

border, which are becoming worse on a daily basis ever since the era of King Mahendra, during

whose reign Nepal's trend was towards China. Numerous clauses of the peace and friendship treaty

were disregarded by both countries, which culminated in the gradual introduction of difficulties into the

lives of the people. The current research takes a holistic approach by recognising the perspectives of

individuals on social and people-to-people interactions, as well as the bread and bride connection,

which is deteriorating on a daily basis. The sentiments of the population that is affected by the current

border security systems, the pattern of commerce, the difficulties that people have in crossing the

border in order to participate in ceremonies in other countries, the exchange of money, including

health services, and the movement of people in order to pursue education are concerns that are of

primary concern. The objective of the research is to determine the extent of the increased levels of

unhappiness and challenges that have occurred over the course of the last several years.

Considering the fact that there is a gap in research, the current study finds importance.

Population & Sample

In light of the fact that the research is concerned with the open border connection, the entire number

of districts that share a border with India is considered to be the population or the universe. Nepal has

27 districts that share a border with India, ranging from east to west.(13)

The majority of the research was conducted using secondary data, with a particular emphasis placed

on library services. However, ten percent of the district was selected at random for primary data

collection in order to gain a better understanding of the actual circumstances of borderline residents,

general people, people's representatives, businessmen, traders, teachers, and social activists.(14)

DATA COLLECTION PROCEDURE

Primary Data

The technique for collecting data involves collecting information from the general population of the

areas in issue by use of a standardized questionnaire. Opinions from prominent individuals include

those of social activists, political leaders, businesspeople and traders, as well as representatives of

Border Awareness (Sima Jagaran) committees in India and representatives of Open Border Dialogue

group in Nepal. (15)

Secondary Data

It is taken from books, journals, publications of government offices and diplomatic agencies.

Quantitative Research Design

According to Davis (2000), quantitative research has the ability to quantify certain features by means

of a systematic data collecting technique from a large representative sample. This allows the results

to be extrapolated to the full population. By collecting and analysing information that can be

aggregated from the survey data, this research strategy is able to deliver a succinct response to the

research question (Beedles, 2002). This is the primary strength of this research approach.(16)

Approach to the Analysis of Data As part of this study, descriptive and analytical approaches have

been used for the purpose of doing data analysis in order to arrive at results. The findings that were

derived from the study are provided in the form of charts, figures, and diagrams wherever it is feasible

to do so. It is necessary to provide a comprehensive description and explanation of the results in

order to accomplish the goals of the study.(17)

Sample

Primary Data

It was decided that a sample size of 10% of Nepal's districts would be chosen using the random

sampling approach in order to acquire the primary data. Individuals from the general public,

representatives of political parties, and district officials from both sides will be included in this.(18)

Secondary Data

For Secondary Official and unofficial sources government publications, booklets, journals, reports

studies, thesis dissertation and periodicals etc would be considered

Data Analysis Tools

Mean

Percentage

Sampling decisions

1. A. Sima Jagran Mancha in India Nepal Bharat Khulla Sambad Samuh in Nepal

2. B. Representatives of political parties/ municipalities in Nepal & India : Convenience

sampling

3. C. Government Authorities: Convenience Sampling decisions

4. D. Traders and Businessmen: Convenience Sampling decisions

5. E. General People of borderline region: Convenience Sampling decision

6. F. Key person’s opinion: Meeting & opinion collection

Sample size:

S.N

District in

Nepal

District in

India

Sample

Banke

Nepalganj

Rupaidiya

General People, Govt. Authorities, political party’s

representatives, Civil organizations working for border

development,

Parsa Birganj

Motihari

Raxaul

“

Morang

Biratnagar

Arariya

Jogvani

DATA ANALYSIS

India and Nepal The only people who were allowed to engage in bilateral ties under the authoritarian

Rana and Panchayat administrations were a restricted group of political elites. As a result of the

restoration of multi-party democracy in Nepal in 1990, after the revolution, Indo-Nepal ties started to

be discussed in the media, civil society, and the general public. Similarly, the second political mass

movement, which is often referred to as Jana Andolan II, was responsible for the establishment of a

federal democratic republic in Nepal, which ultimately resulted in a significant reorganisation of the

state organisation. Those discussions on Nepal-India have been brought about as a result of the

political developments, which have produced a free media.(19)

India has always been the focus of Nepalese officers' attention due to the Maoist movement, which

was a significant security worry due to India's involvement. India was put in danger as a result of the

security issues that Nepal was experiencing at the time. The Maoist uprising brought to light the

problem of connectivity across international borders amongst a variety of terrorist and extremist

organisations. There was a great possibility that India's domestic security may be compromised as a

result of the catastrophic events that occurred in Nepal.(20)

Table 1. Response To What Are Main Issues To Control The Border

Issues

difficult to

control the flow

of ideas,

thoughts,

information,

weapons of

small caliber,

money (both

fake and real)

and drugs

through the

trans-state

networks.

Percent of

respondents

Table 2 whether with the advancement of information – technology, communication and

transportation the border management has become easier or harder?

Issues

trans-state

networks have

become more

sophisticated

security threat

issues have

gone up

has facilitated

local people

criminal

activities have

grown up

Percent of

respondents

Table 3 regard to the open border as the symbol of friendship and cooperation between the

two nations.

Strongly agree

agree

indifferent

Don’t agree

Strongly object

Number of people arrested for smuggling arms by Nepal Police

F/Y

No of arrested

2017/18

377

1018/19

361

2019/20

360

2020/21

426

CONCLUSION

Despite the fact that it is not feasible to totally shut the border between Nepal and India, it is also not

acceptable to leave the border entirely closed. From the dawn of time, the people who reside in the

borderland communities of both countries have had intimate connections with one another in terms of

their family and friends, their participation in pilgrimages, and their thoughts of social issues. In the

vicinity of the border, there must be clearly delineated points of entry and exit that are designated. In

order to prevent international criminals and terrorists from exploiting the international border, it is

necessary to build a system or method that would allow them to be inspected and arrested at the

border point. However, in order to strengthen the people-to-people connections that already exist

between Nepal and India, it is necessary to exercise control over the movement of persons who

belong to communities that are located on the border. When it comes to the administration of the

open border between Nepal and India, a balanced approach is required. This strategy must recognize

the historical relationship between the two countries while also ensuring security and efficient border

control. The social, cultural, and religious ties that have existed between the two nations for a very

long time are the reason for this. I would like to bring to your attention the following examples of

potential considerations that might be taken into account: Crossing International Boundaries: The

open border management system needs to give emphasis to the facilitation of people-to-people

contact, which includes the movement of travelers, families, and communities on both sides of the

boundary. This should be the central focus of the system. Streamlining immigration processes,

simplifying visa requirements, and modernizing border crossing facilities to function more efficiently

are all ways in which this objective might be achieved. The open border management system must

take into account the sentiments and traditions of the respective populations of Nepal and India.

REFERENCES

1. There are no sources in the current document. Border Disputes Between India and Nepal:

Will India Act as a Responsible Rising Power?

2. By Dr DB Subedi and Bikram Timilsina National Human Rights Commission of Nepal (NHRC)

2020

3. Hannan, A. (2018). Geography of informal trade, commodity flows and livelihoods in

IndoNepal border. Business Management & Compliance,1(2), 7-29. https://osderpublications.

com/uploads/1568726955.pdf

4. Baral, L.R., & Pyakurel, U.P. (2016). Nepal-India open borders: Problems and prospects. Vij

Books India Pvt. Ltd.

5. Dhungana, N. (2022, November 10). Home Ministry: India-Nepal cross-border smuggling rife

in cahoots with bureaucrats, politicians. Online Khabar. https://english.onlinekhabar.

com/cross-border-smuggling-cahoots.html

6. Giri, A. (2022, March 6). Government decides to allow Bhutanese refugees to do business.

The Kathmandu Post: https://kathmandupost.com/national/2022/03/06/government-decidesto-

allow-bhutanese-refugees-to-do-business

7. Upreti, Y. (2021). Issues in border security of Nepal. Journal of APF Command and Staff

College, 4(1), pp.152-160. https://doi.org/10.3126/japfcsc.v4i1.34145

8. Sanjeewani, DGN (2019). Rohingya refugees in Nepal: Going beyond the discourse on

integration. General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Sri Lanka.

http://ir.kdu.ac.lk/handle/345/2069

9. United Nations High Commission for Refugees. (2020). Nepal. https://reporting.unhcr.org/

sites/default/files/UNHCR%20Nepal%20fact%20sheet%20November%202020_0.pdf

10. www.efsas.org/publication/study -paper/misuse -of- nepal’s territory by -palistan’s -intelligence

agencies to forment terrorism

11. Prof. (Dr.) C. B. Bhange, Ajay Kumar & Arbind Kumar- South Asia Security & Peace

Challenges 2021 Research Gate

12. Prof. (Dr.) Baral L.R. "Realism Not Idealism Important In Nepal India Border" Spotlight Vol: 08

No. -4 July. 25- 2014

13. DB Subedi School of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS) at the University of New

England in Australia.

14. Bikram Timilsina is a PhD scholar in Griffith Asia Institute and School of Government and

International Relations at Griffith University Australia.

15. Adhikari, Dhruba. R. 2018. A Small State between Two Major Powers: Nepal’s Foreign Policy

Since 1816. Journal of International Affairs, 2:1, 43-74.

16. Adichie, Chimamanda. N. 2009. The Danger of a Singly Story. Accessed on March 30, 2020

https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story/transcri

pt?language=en.

17. Barnett, Michael, and Raymond Duvall. 2005. Power in International Politics. International

Organization 59:1, 39–75.

18. Bharadwaj, Narad. n.d. Why Anti-Indian Sentiment Grows in Nepal? Accessed on March 30,

2020 http://therisingnepal.org.np/news/8561

19. Bloomfield, Alan. 2014. Review of India in South Asia: Domestic Identity Politics and Foreign

Policy from Nehru to the BJP, 2013 by Sinderpal Singh, Oxon: Routledge.

20. Carr, Edward. H. 1971. The Twenty Years’ Crisis, 1919-1939: An Introduction to the Study of

International Relations (2nd Ed.). London: Macmillan.