Nepal's Foreign Minister has begun a significant visit to India, marking the first ministerial-level engagement between New Delhi and the government led by Balen Shah. The visit is being closely watched as both countries seek to strengthen bilateral ties and advance cooperation on trade, connectivity, development, and regional security.

What are the key issues on the agenda? How important is this visit for India-Nepal relations? And what could it signal about the new government's foreign policy priorities?

First Ministerial Visit From Balen Shah Govt to India 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepal’s Rabi Lamichhane held discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. The talks covered regional connectivity, trade, people-to-people ties, and strategic cooperation between the two neighbouring nations. The meeting reflects ongoing efforts by both countries to deepen diplomatic engagement and enhance regional stability in South Asia.


India-Nepal Ties: Modi-Rabi Lamichhane Discuss 'Neighbourhood First' Policy 

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre.&nbsp;The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad&nbsp;Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division).&nbsp;Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries.Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-strikes-down-donald-trump-s-global-tariffs-1771601310479">US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs</a>

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.&nbsp;Alongside policy and commerce, the festival showcases Nepal's cultural heritage through musical performances, film screenings, including the documentary 'Gurkha Warriors' on day one, traditional arts and authentic Nepali cuisine.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference at the Press Club of India on Tuesday, ECCI President Yubaraj Baral described the event as a “transformative platform”.&nbsp;“The festival will further support the expansion of investment opportunities, foster meaningful partnerships across various sectors between Nepal and India, and deepen the historic friendship between the two nations,” Mr Baral said. “This landmark bilateral event will further reinforce India-Nepal economic diplomacy and promote long-term regional cooperation.”&nbsp;Organisers say the initiative addresses the need to expand trade and reduce imbalances, while promoting people-to-people contacts rooted in shared history, open borders and cultural affinities. The three-day event is expected to serve as a key platform for advancing bilateral economic diplomacy amid ongoing efforts to strengthen connectivity and mutual prosperity.

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

The second edition of the Indo-Nepal Trade Festival opened in New Delhi on Friday, aiming to deepen economic ties, boost tourism and cultural exchanges between the two close neighbours. Held from 20-22 February at the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry building in Hauz Khas, the event is organised by the Everest Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ECCI), an umbrella body of Nepali entrepreneurs in India, in partnership with the Embassy of Nepal, the Nepal Tourism Board and the Trade and Export Promotion Centre. The festival, under the theme “Connecting People, Enhancing Bilateral Trade”, was inaugurated by Nepal's Ambassador to India, Shankar Prasad Sharma, and Munu Mahawar, Additional Secretary in India's Ministry of External Affairs (North Division). Building on its inaugural edition, this year's gathering features more than ten high-level sessions and policy dialogues involving over 60 experts from both countries. Discussions will cover key areas including hydropower and energy cooperation, cross-border trade and connectivity, tourism integration along the Ramayana and Buddhist Circuits, banking, fintech and digital economy collaboration, media and cultural diplomacy, youth engagement, education, innovation, the startup ecosystem, and a broader “Vision 2030” for Indo-Nepal cooperation. Also Read: US Supreme Court strikes down Donald Trump's global tariffs

Business networking, B2B, and B2G meetings will bring together policymakers, ministers, diplomats, industrialists, investors and entrepreneurs to explore new opportunities for shared growth and sustainable regional development.

Delhi hosts Indo-Nepal Trade Festival to boost trade, tourism and cultural links

The Indo-Nepal Joint military exercise SURYAKIRAN culminated with a closing ceremony at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, marking the successful closure of an important bilateral armed force engagement, the Indian Army informed on Tuesday (Dec 09). The 19th edition of the exercise between the armies of both countries showcased two days of an intensive high-tempo training cycle.&nbsp;India's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) on X informed that the DGMOs of the Indian and Nepali Armies jointly witnessed and validated the Battalion-level Validation Exercise, concluding an intensive combined training cycle at the Foreign Training Node, Pithoragarh.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/red-fort-blast-nia-arrests-another-key-accused-in-delhi-bombing-case-1765286785008">Red Fort blast: NIA arrests another key accused in Delhi bombing case</a>&nbsp;The exercise validated joint Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) for Counter-Terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, with effective integration of niche technologies including drones for ISR and precision targeting, AI-enabled surveillance, unmanned logistics platforms, advanced day/night sights and secure battlefield communications.&nbsp;The exercise demonstrated seamless interoperability between the two armies through cohesive mission planning and coordinated execution of combined operations across battalion, company and team levels, with emphasis on intelligence-led surgical actions and aerial insertion in complex terrain.&nbsp;As a symbol of enduring friendship between two forces, the DGMOs planted a Tree of Friendship reflecting shared commitment and strategic operation.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cold-wave-in-telangana-imd-issue-yellow-alert-for-7-districts-as-mercury-drops-5-1-c-predicts-drop-in-temp-till-dec-12-1765282622042">Cold wave in Telangana? IMD issue 'yellow alert' for 7 districts as mercury drops 5.1°C, predicts more drop in temp till Dec 12</a>&nbsp;"Commending the high degree of operational synergy and mutual trust achieved, the DGMOs planted a 'Tree of Friendship', symbolising the enduring brotherhood and strategic partnership between India and Nepal," ADGPI said in a post.&nbsp;The Indian contingent, of 334 personnel, was being represented mainly by troops from the ASSAM Regiment. The Nepal side was represented by 334 personnel, primarily troops from the DEVI DATTA Regiment. The exercise aims to jointly rehearse the conduct of sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate

The exercise validated joint Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) for Counter-Terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter

The Indo-Nepal Joint military exercise SURYAKIRAN culminated with a closing ceremony at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, marking the successful closure of an important bilateral armed force engagement, the Indian Army informed on Tuesday (Dec 09). The 19th edition of the exercise between the armies of both countries showcased two days of an intensive high-tempo training cycle. India's Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) on X informed that the DGMOs of the Indian and Nepali Armies jointly witnessed and validated the Battalion-level Validation Exercise, concluding an intensive combined training cycle at the Foreign Training Node, Pithoragarh. Also Read: Red Fort blast: NIA arrests another key accused in Delhi bombing case The exercise validated joint Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) for Counter-Terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, with effective integration of niche technologies including drones for ISR and precision targeting, AI-enabled surveillance, unmanned logistics platforms, advanced day/night sights and secure battlefield communications. The exercise demonstrated seamless interoperability between the two armies through cohesive mission planning and coordinated execution of combined operations across battalion, company and team levels, with emphasis on intelligence-led surgical actions and aerial insertion in complex terrain. As a symbol of enduring friendship between two forces, the DGMOs planted a Tree of Friendship reflecting shared commitment and strategic operation. Also Read: Cold wave in Telangana? IMD issue 'yellow alert' for 7 districts as mercury drops 5.1°C, predicts more drop in temp till Dec 12 "Commending the high degree of operational synergy and mutual trust achieved, the DGMOs planted a 'Tree of Friendship', symbolising the enduring brotherhood and strategic partnership between India and Nepal," ADGPI said in a post. The Indian contingent, of 334 personnel, was being represented mainly by troops from the ASSAM Regiment. The Nepal side was represented by 334 personnel, primarily troops from the DEVI DATTA Regiment. The exercise aims to jointly rehearse the conduct of sub-conventional operations under Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate

The exercise validated joint Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) for Counter-Terrorism operations under Chapter VII of the UN Charter

Indian, Nepal armies ramp up battle readiness in high-intensity Surya Kiran–XIX wargame

Amid the ongoing investigation into the deadly blast in New Delhi, Indian security forces along the Nepal border have arrested two British nationals attempting to enter India illegally without valid visas and credible documents. The arrests took place during heightened security checks at the Rupaidiha border in Uttar Pradesh, following a car explosion in the Indian capital earlier this month that killed at least 15 people.The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) detained the two individuals on November 15.&nbsp;&nbsp;They have been identified as Dr Hassan Amman Saleem, age 35, son of Mohammad Saleem of Pakistani origin. His current address is listed as Manchester, United Kingdom. The woman was identified as Dr Sumitra Shakeel Olivia, age 61, daughter of John Frederick, originally from Udupi, Karnataka. She is a British passport holder with her present address in Gloucester, United Kingdom. They were unable to satisfactorily explain their attempt to enter India without valid travel documents.&nbsp;Sources indicate that Indian investigators suspect a possible link between the two and the Delhi blast module, as they arrived in Nepal just one day before the explosion. They had entered Nepal after being invited by a local hospital in the rural area of Nepalgunj. Nepal Police officers told WION that both foreign nationals had valid documents to enter Nepal.&nbsp;"In this regard, Case No. 334/2025 under Section 14A of the Foreigners Act has been registered at Rupaidiha Police Station, District Bahraich. The accused have been sent to the Hon’ble Court, Sadar Bahraich, for necessary legal proceedings,” local police said in a statement.

SSB officials said that all Nepali and Indian citizens crossing through the Jamunaha border are questioned and allowed to proceed only after verifying their identity cards.Commandant of the 42nd Battalion of the SSB, Ganga Singh Udawat, stated that vehicles moving through the border are strictly monitored and cleared only after inspection by trained dogs.&nbsp;He added that since the Nepalgunj border is considered highly sensitive, security checks have been intensified. Police and SSB teams are continuously patrolling the rural areas along the border. SSB personnel, in coordination with Nepal’s Armed Police Force, are carrying out regular patrols to maintain heightened vigilance along the border.

They have been identified as Dr Hassan Amman Saleem, age 35, son of Mohammad Saleem of Pakistani origin. His current address is listed as Manchester, United Kingdom. 

Amid the ongoing investigation into the deadly blast in New Delhi, Indian security forces along the Nepal border have arrested two British nationals attempting to enter India illegally without valid visas and credible documents. The arrests took place during heightened security checks at the Rupaidiha border in Uttar Pradesh, following a car explosion in the Indian capital earlier this month that killed at least 15 people. The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) detained the two individuals on November 15. They have been identified as Dr Hassan Amman Saleem, age 35, son of Mohammad Saleem of Pakistani origin. His current address is listed as Manchester, United Kingdom. The woman was identified as Dr Sumitra Shakeel Olivia, age 61, daughter of John Frederick, originally from Udupi, Karnataka. She is a British passport holder with her present address in Gloucester, United Kingdom. They were unable to satisfactorily explain their attempt to enter India without valid travel documents. Sources indicate that Indian investigators suspect a possible link between the two and the Delhi blast module, as they arrived in Nepal just one day before the explosion. They had entered Nepal after being invited by a local hospital in the rural area of Nepalgunj. Nepal Police officers told WION that both foreign nationals had valid documents to enter Nepal. "In this regard, Case No. 334/2025 under Section 14A of the Foreigners Act has been registered at Rupaidiha Police Station, District Bahraich. The accused have been sent to the Hon’ble Court, Sadar Bahraich, for necessary legal proceedings,” local police said in a statement.

They have been identified as Dr Hassan Amman Saleem, age 35, son of Mohammad Saleem of Pakistani origin. His current address is listed as Manchester, United Kingdom.&nbsp;

Two foreigners detained as India-Nepal boost border security

Now ousted Nepal PM KP Oli has issued his first response on Wed (Sep 10) after fleeing his country amid violent protests. He revealed that he is currently at the Shivapuri barracks of the Nepal Army. Without responding to the violence that has engulfed his country or the social media ban that triggered the protests, Oli went on an anti-India rant and said that he lost power because he 'opposed the birth of Lord Ram in Ayodhya." He also said that he would have remained in power had he not raised the issue of - Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura - that Nepal claims to be a disputed territory with India. While multiple reports on Tuesday claimed that he had fled the country, he is now saying that he is in Shivapuri which is in the north of Kathmandu.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-s-bangladesh-sri-lanka-deja-vu-three-neighbours-three-fallen-govts-how-political-turmoil-engulfed-india-s-neighborhood-1757449181889">Nepal’s 'Bangladesh-Sri Lanka' deja vu: Three neighbours, three fallen govts — How political turmoil engulfed India’s neighbourhood</a> “By nature, I am a little stubborn. Without that stubbornness, perhaps I would have given up long ago, amid all these challenges. It was with that same insistence that I demanded social media companies operating here follow our rules and register locally. I insisted that Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal. I maintained that Lord Shri Ram was born in Nepal, not India, as the scriptures say. Had I compromised on these stands, I could have chosen many easier paths and reaped many benefits. If the map of Nepal, including Limpiyadhura, had not been sent to the United Nations, or if I had let others decide for me, my life could have been very different. But instead, I gave everything I owned to the state. For me, position and prestige were never what mattered,” he said in his letter.&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-protest-kp-oli-s-india-visit-in-third-term-that-never-happened-1757418162033">Nepal protest: Oli's India visit in third term — that never happened</a><h3>Nepal Protest</h3>Nepal is witnessing a youth-led protest over digital censorship that soon spiralled into a full-blown political crisis. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down. Several ministers were assaulted, chased and their homes were set afire by angry protesters. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former PM Jhalanath Khanal, died after her home was torched. Protesters also stormed and set fire to key government buildings, including Parliament, the PM’s residence, and the President’s house.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the trigger was a sweeping government move on September 4, when 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Whatsapp and X were blocked, protesters, mostly youngsters, also came to the streets over rising corruption, a lack of accountability and inequality from the top echelons of the nation. Termed by many as the ‘Gen Z Protest’ or even the ‘Gen Z Revolution’, Nepal on Tuesday witnessed widespread unrest marked by vandalism, violent clashes, and assaults on public officials. At least 19 people were killed in a deadly clash between protesters and security forces in Nepal as protests intensified. Moreover, Nepali police said that more than 13,500 prisoners broke out of jails across the country during anti-government protests.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-unrest-anti-goverment-protests-escalate-in-nepal-at-least-22-dead-many-injured-1757499645731/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-unrest-anti-goverment-protests-escalate-in-nepal-at-least-22-dead-many-injured-1757499645731/embed</a>&nbsp;Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-teachers-agitation-to-pro-monarchy-march-what-led-to-deadly-nepal-protest-and-real-reason-for-genz-s-frustration-1757408771677/amp">From teachers agitation to pro-monarchy march: What led to deadly Nepal protest and REAL reason for GenZ's frustration</a>

Deposed Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli accused India of engineering his ouster for challenging it on sensitive issues like the Lipulekh border dispute and Lord Ram’s birthplace. In a letter, Oli claimed he lost power for opposing Ayodhya’s claim as Ram’s birthplace, reigniting India-Nepal tensions.

Now ousted Nepal PM KP Oli has issued his first response on Wed (Sep 10) after fleeing his country amid violent protests. He revealed that he is currently at the Shivapuri barracks of the Nepal Army. Without responding to the violence that has engulfed his country or the social media ban that triggered the protests, Oli went on an anti-India rant and said that he lost power because he 'opposed the birth of Lord Ram in Ayodhya." He also said that he would have remained in power had he not raised the issue of - Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura - that Nepal claims to be a disputed territory with India. While multiple reports on Tuesday claimed that he had fled the country, he is now saying that he is in Shivapuri which is in the north of Kathmandu. Read More | Nepal’s 'Bangladesh-Sri Lanka' deja vu: Three neighbours, three fallen govts — How political turmoil engulfed India’s neighbourhood “By nature, I am a little stubborn. Without that stubbornness, perhaps I would have given up long ago, amid all these challenges. It was with that same insistence that I demanded social media companies operating here follow our rules and register locally. I insisted that Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura belong to Nepal. I maintained that Lord Shri Ram was born in Nepal, not India, as the scriptures say. Had I compromised on these stands, I could have chosen many easier paths and reaped many benefits. If the map of Nepal, including Limpiyadhura, had not been sent to the United Nations, or if I had let others decide for me, my life could have been very different. But instead, I gave everything I owned to the state. For me, position and prestige were never what mattered,” he said in his letter. Read More | Nepal protest: Oli's India visit in third term — that never happened Nepal Protest Nepal is witnessing a youth-led protest over digital censorship that soon spiralled into a full-blown political crisis. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli stepped down. Several ministers were assaulted, chased and their homes were set afire by angry protesters. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former PM Jhalanath Khanal, died after her home was torched. Protesters also stormed and set fire to key government buildings, including Parliament, the PM’s residence, and the President’s house. While the trigger was a sweeping government move on September 4, when 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Whatsapp and X were blocked, protesters, mostly youngsters, also came to the streets over rising corruption, a lack of accountability and inequality from the top echelons of the nation. Termed by many as the ‘Gen Z Protest’ or even the ‘Gen Z Revolution’, Nepal on Tuesday witnessed widespread unrest marked by vandalism, violent clashes, and assaults on public officials. At least 19 people were killed in a deadly clash between protesters and security forces in Nepal as protests intensified. Moreover, Nepali police said that more than 13,500 prisoners broke out of jails across the country during anti-government protests. https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-unrest-anti-goverment-protests-escalate-in-nepal-at-least-22-dead-many-injured-1757499645731/embed Read More | From teachers agitation to pro-monarchy march: What led to deadly Nepal protest and REAL reason for GenZ's frustration

Deposed Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli accused India of engineering his ouster for challenging it on sensitive issues like the Lipulekh border dispute and Lord Ram’s birthplace. In a letter, Oli claimed he lost power for opposing Ayodhya’s claim as Ram’s birthplace, reigniting India-Nepal tensions.

'Lord Ram's birthplace, Limpiyadhura map': Oli issues first response after ouster amid Nepal protests, continues 'anti-India stance'

One year, one month and four days ago, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and she was forced to flee her country amid violent protest. The script was repeated on Tues (Sep 9) in Nepal - yet another India's neighbour. PM KP Oli was forced to resign due to widespread protest and he reportedly fled to Dubai. The protest, however, did not stop after his exit. In fact, it escalated with protesters barging into the Parliament and Oli's official residence and vandalising it. The images of buildings on fire, protesters dancing and cheering the fall of government and damaging government property - were eerily similar to what the world saw in Dhaka in 2024, when Hasina was ousted. Clashes with police and security personnel gave a deja vu moment from 2022 too - when similar protest in Sri Lanka forced President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. Sanjeev Sanyal, member of Indian PM Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council questioned the ‘organic’ nature of these protests, pointing out that they look like a repeat of each other. While his concerns may require a larger probe, or may be dismissed as conspiracy theory, what must surely be pondered upon is the unrest and instability in India's neighbouring countries in the past few years.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-protest-kp-oli-s-india-visit-in-third-term-that-never-happened-1757418162033">Nepal protest: Oli's India visit in third term — that never happened</a>&nbsp;Three neighbours, three different years and collapse of three governments: A look at what has happened in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and now Nepal and what lies ahead for New Delhi:<h2>Nepal Protest</h2>Kathmandu's political history might be taking a new turn with the recent protest. Youth-led protest over digital censorship has spiralled into a full-blown political crisis, plunging Nepal into uncertainty. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stepped down and fled the country. Several ministers were assaulted, chased and their homes were set afire by angry protesters. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former PM Jhalanath Khanal, died after her home was torched. Protesters also stormed and set fire to key government buildings, including Parliament, the PM’s residence, and the President’s house. Reportedly, country's President and Chif Justice have also resigned and Army Chief said that Army will ensure national security and speak to the protesting people.&nbsp;&nbsp;While the trigger was a sweeping government move on September 4, when 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Whatsapp and X were blocked, protesters, mostly youngsters, also came to streets over rising corruption and a lack of accountability and inequality from the top echelons of the nation. Termed by many as the ‘Gen Z Protest’ or even the ‘Gen Z Revolution’, Nepal on Tuesday witnessed widespread unrest marked by vandalism, violent clashes, and assaults on public officials. Across Kathmandu and other major cities, protesters torched vehicles, stormed government buildings, and rejoiced the destruction, even as the deadly clash resulted in the death of 19 people. The streets turned into battlegrounds, as the younger generation, demanded a complete overhaul of the political system. Nepali youth now want Kathmandu’s young mayor, Balendra Shah popularly known as ‘Balen Shah’, rapper-turned-politician, as their next leader.&nbsp;Read more |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-from-10-pm-nepal-army-chief-urges-for-calm-after-oli-s-exit-issues-warning-to-protesters-gives-big-update-1757432306481">‘From 10 pm…’: Nepal Army chief urges for calm after Oli's exit, issues warning to protesters, gives BIG update</a><h2>Bangladesh Protest: Fall of Hasina&nbsp;</h2>If one needs to explain what deja vu is, one must compare the sequence of events in Dhaka in 2024, to situation in Kathmandu in 2025. Visuals and the protest script is exactly the same - it almost seems like the Gen Z in Kathmandu learnt from the Bangladesh protest of 2024 when nationwide protests, sparked by student anger over public-sector job quotas, spiralled into a full-blown political crisis. A campus-based agitation, led by disillusioned youth, quickly spread across the country—toppling the Hasina government. A controversial quota system in government jobs, seen by many as discriminatory and outdated, was the triggering point for the protests. On August 5, after weeks of escalating unrest, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India in a military helicopter. &nbsp;There too, security personnel opened fire on demonstrators during the student protest, and in the days that followed, hundreds were killed. By the time Hasina exited the country, the death toll had climbed sharply. According to United Nations estimates, more than 1,400 people had lost their lives, while thousands of others were injured.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a dramatic shift, an interim government was swiftly formed—led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. However, in the weeks that followed, the anger on the streets didn’t subside. Protesters began targeting symbols of the old regime. In Dhanmondi, the home of Hasina’s father—Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—was vandalised and set ablaze. Mujibur Rahman's statue and Hasina's posters were defaced at several locations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oli-will-continue-to-run-the-government-says-nepal-president-here-s-why-and-how-it-ll-happen-1757429208818">Oli resigns BUT 'cabinet will continue to run the government', says Nepal President. Here’s how it's possible</a><h2>Sri Lanka protests of 2022</h2>Similarly, pictures that came out of in 2022 showed the world people's frustration with government's that are not taking accountability. Demonstrations initially started over fuel shortages and inflation, but soon turned into a nationwide uprising that forced President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s private home was also set on fire by angry protesters. On July 13, thousands of protesters stormed Rajapaksa's official residence and occupied key government buildings, including the Presidential Secretariat and Prime Minister’s office. Dramatic visuals of people sitting on President, PM's chair, swimming in the pool inside in his residence and even kissing amid the anti-government protest went viral on social media. &nbsp;The protests were mainly staged by frustrated citizens after long power cuts, skyrocketing prices, and the government’s inability to import basic necessities. Millions of people across the country took to the streets in July that year under the banner of the “Aragalaya” or “struggle” movement, demanding the resignation of the entire ruling elite. Police then used force against the protesters to end the revolt. However, simmering anger exploded and ruling government fell. The “Gota Go Home” slogan that defined the uprising became a symbol of people's frustration. In Sep 2023, left-leaning politician Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected the country's president after he won the debt-ridden country’s first election since protest of 2022.<h2>What are India's concerns?</h2>New Delhi is closely monitoring the situation in its neighbourhood. While it has already established a cordial (if not friendly) relationship with new Sri Lankan President Dissanayake, Indian PM Modi has not shied away from meeting Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus. Depsite Dhaka's Pakistan maneuvers, Yunus shared an old image of Modi awarding him a gold medal to showcase his bond with the Indian PM after the meeting - sending signals to New Delhi that he doesn't want the bonhomie between two nations to disappear. With all three nations, India also faces the ‘China dominance’ question. On that front, India’s own attempts to mend ties with Beijing amid Trump’s tariff war could help keep the fear of its monopoly in the neighborhood at arm’s length, at least for a while. Regional security, economic disruptions, refugee flows and cross-border tensions remain the primary concerns for India but diplomatic touch and close watch at the borders can keep this in check as well. For New Delhi, ensuring stability in neighboring countries is crucial to maintaining its own security, geopolitical standing of the ‘Global South’. Faced with Trump's uncertain nature, Beijing also wishes for a peaceful South Asia, to put pressure of the US and bat for multipolar world order. Hence, though, India and China may have their own powerplay amid the instability in the neighbourhood, it is united in its call for peace. This also makes matters easy for New Delhi, thanks to Trump, maybe!&nbsp;

Between 2022 and 2024, protests in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal toppled governments amid economic crises, corruption, and youth-led unrest. Leaders fled as citizens demanded reforms, highlighting growing political instability in India’s neighborhood 

One year, one month and four days ago, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted and she was forced to flee her country amid violent protest. The script was repeated on Tues (Sep 9) in Nepal - yet another India's neighbour. PM KP Oli was forced to resign due to widespread protest and he reportedly fled to Dubai. The protest, however, did not stop after his exit. In fact, it escalated with protesters barging into the Parliament and Oli's official residence and vandalising it. The images of buildings on fire, protesters dancing and cheering the fall of government and damaging government property - were eerily similar to what the world saw in Dhaka in 2024, when Hasina was ousted. Clashes with police and security personnel gave a deja vu moment from 2022 too - when similar protest in Sri Lanka forced President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. Sanjeev Sanyal, member of Indian PM Narendra Modi's Economic Advisory Council questioned the ‘organic’ nature of these protests, pointing out that they look like a repeat of each other. While his concerns may require a larger probe, or may be dismissed as conspiracy theory, what must surely be pondered upon is the unrest and instability in India's neighbouring countries in the past few years. Read more | Nepal protest: Oli's India visit in third term — that never happened Three neighbours, three different years and collapse of three governments: A look at what has happened in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and now Nepal and what lies ahead for New Delhi: Nepal Protest Kathmandu's political history might be taking a new turn with the recent protest. Youth-led protest over digital censorship has spiralled into a full-blown political crisis, plunging Nepal into uncertainty. Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli has stepped down and fled the country. Several ministers were assaulted, chased and their homes were set afire by angry protesters. Rajyalaxmi Chitrakar, wife of former PM Jhalanath Khanal, died after her home was torched. Protesters also stormed and set fire to key government buildings, including Parliament, the PM’s residence, and the President’s house. Reportedly, country's President and Chif Justice have also resigned and Army Chief said that Army will ensure national security and speak to the protesting people. While the trigger was a sweeping government move on September 4, when 26 social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Whatsapp and X were blocked, protesters, mostly youngsters, also came to streets over rising corruption and a lack of accountability and inequality from the top echelons of the nation. Termed by many as the ‘Gen Z Protest’ or even the ‘Gen Z Revolution’, Nepal on Tuesday witnessed widespread unrest marked by vandalism, violent clashes, and assaults on public officials. Across Kathmandu and other major cities, protesters torched vehicles, stormed government buildings, and rejoiced the destruction, even as the deadly clash resulted in the death of 19 people. The streets turned into battlegrounds, as the younger generation, demanded a complete overhaul of the political system. Nepali youth now want Kathmandu’s young mayor, Balendra Shah popularly known as ‘Balen Shah’, rapper-turned-politician, as their next leader. Read more | ‘From 10 pm…’: Nepal Army chief urges for calm after Oli's exit, issues warning to protesters, gives BIG update Bangladesh Protest: Fall of Hasina If one needs to explain what deja vu is, one must compare the sequence of events in Dhaka in 2024, to situation in Kathmandu in 2025. Visuals and the protest script is exactly the same - it almost seems like the Gen Z in Kathmandu learnt from the Bangladesh protest of 2024 when nationwide protests, sparked by student anger over public-sector job quotas, spiralled into a full-blown political crisis. A campus-based agitation, led by disillusioned youth, quickly spread across the country—toppling the Hasina government. A controversial quota system in government jobs, seen by many as discriminatory and outdated, was the triggering point for the protests. On August 5, after weeks of escalating unrest, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India in a military helicopter. There too, security personnel opened fire on demonstrators during the student protest, and in the days that followed, hundreds were killed. By the time Hasina exited the country, the death toll had climbed sharply. According to United Nations estimates, more than 1,400 people had lost their lives, while thousands of others were injured. In a dramatic shift, an interim government was swiftly formed—led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. However, in the weeks that followed, the anger on the streets didn’t subside. Protesters began targeting symbols of the old regime. In Dhanmondi, the home of Hasina’s father—Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—was vandalised and set ablaze. Mujibur Rahman's statue and Hasina's posters were defaced at several locations. Read more | Oli resigns BUT 'cabinet will continue to run the government', says Nepal President. Here’s how it's possible Sri Lanka protests of 2022 Similarly, pictures that came out of in 2022 showed the world people's frustration with government's that are not taking accountability. Demonstrations initially started over fuel shortages and inflation, but soon turned into a nationwide uprising that forced President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe’s private home was also set on fire by angry protesters. On July 13, thousands of protesters stormed Rajapaksa's official residence and occupied key government buildings, including the Presidential Secretariat and Prime Minister’s office. Dramatic visuals of people sitting on President, PM's chair, swimming in the pool inside in his residence and even kissing amid the anti-government protest went viral on social media. The protests were mainly staged by frustrated citizens after long power cuts, skyrocketing prices, and the government’s inability to import basic necessities. Millions of people across the country took to the streets in July that year under the banner of the “Aragalaya” or “struggle” movement, demanding the resignation of the entire ruling elite. Police then used force against the protesters to end the revolt. However, simmering anger exploded and ruling government fell. The “Gota Go Home” slogan that defined the uprising became a symbol of people's frustration. In Sep 2023, left-leaning politician Anura Kumara Dissanayake was elected the country's president after he won the debt-ridden country’s first election since protest of 2022. What are India's concerns? New Delhi is closely monitoring the situation in its neighbourhood. While it has already established a cordial (if not friendly) relationship with new Sri Lankan President Dissanayake, Indian PM Modi has not shied away from meeting Bangladesh's interim leader Yunus. Depsite Dhaka's Pakistan maneuvers, Yunus shared an old image of Modi awarding him a gold medal to showcase his bond with the Indian PM after the meeting - sending signals to New Delhi that he doesn't want the bonhomie between two nations to disappear. With all three nations, India also faces the ‘China dominance’ question. On that front, India’s own attempts to mend ties with Beijing amid Trump’s tariff war could help keep the fear of its monopoly in the neighborhood at arm’s length, at least for a while. Regional security, economic disruptions, refugee flows and cross-border tensions remain the primary concerns for India but diplomatic touch and close watch at the borders can keep this in check as well. For New Delhi, ensuring stability in neighboring countries is crucial to maintaining its own security, geopolitical standing of the ‘Global South’. Faced with Trump's uncertain nature, Beijing also wishes for a peaceful South Asia, to put pressure of the US and bat for multipolar world order. Hence, though, India and China may have their own powerplay amid the instability in the neighbourhood, it is united in its call for peace. This also makes matters easy for New Delhi, thanks to Trump, maybe!

Between 2022 and 2024, protests in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal toppled governments amid economic crises, corruption, and youth-led unrest. Leaders fled as citizens demanded reforms, highlighting growing political instability in India’s neighborhood&nbsp;

Nepal’s 'Bangladesh-Sri Lanka' deja vu: Three neighbours, three fallen govts — How political turmoil engulfed India’s neighbourhood

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba is likely to visit New Delhi by the end of August to lay the groundwork for Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s official visit to India in September. Sources said Foreign Minister Rana will travel to Delhi for a routine health check-up, but her trip is also expected to include official meetings. She is likely to meet Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar as part of the preparations for PM Oli’s visit.&nbsp;Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar next month, where he will hold bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Breaking tradition, India will host Oli in Bodh Gaya instead of New Delhi. The Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment, carries deep cultural and spiritual significance for both nations.&nbsp;This will mark Oli’s first trip to India since assuming office in July last year.&nbsp;Both sides are planning delegation-level talks, luncheon meetings between Oli and Modi, and a joint press conference at the International Convention Centre in Bodh Gaya.&nbsp;The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. During the August 17–18 visit, Misri formally handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Oli, according to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu.&nbsp;While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.&nbsp;He also held wide-ranging discussions with his Nepali counterpart, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and reviewed progress in bilateral initiatives and explored opportunities for further cooperation, including possible outcomes of Oli’s forthcoming visit.

The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.

Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba is likely to visit New Delhi by the end of August to lay the groundwork for Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s official visit to India in September. Sources said Foreign Minister Rana will travel to Delhi for a routine health check-up, but her trip is also expected to include official meetings. She is likely to meet Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar as part of the preparations for PM Oli’s visit. Prime Minister Oli is scheduled to travel to Bodh Gaya in Bihar next month, where he will hold bilateral talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Breaking tradition, India will host Oli in Bodh Gaya instead of New Delhi. The Buddhist pilgrimage site, where Lord Buddha is believed to have attained enlightenment, carries deep cultural and spiritual significance for both nations. This will mark Oli’s first trip to India since assuming office in July last year. Both sides are planning delegation-level talks, luncheon meetings between Oli and Modi, and a joint press conference at the International Convention Centre in Bodh Gaya. The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. During the August 17–18 visit, Misri formally handed over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s invitation to Oli, according to a statement from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries. He also held wide-ranging discussions with his Nepali counterpart, Foreign Secretary Amrit Bahadur Rai, and reviewed progress in bilateral initiatives and explored opportunities for further cooperation, including possible outcomes of Oli’s forthcoming visit.

The first official confirmation of Oli’s visit came during Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri’s recent trip to Nepal. While in Kathmandu, Misri met with President Ramchandra Poudel, Prime Minister Oli, Foreign Minister Rana, and other dignitaries.

Nepal Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba to visit India ahead of PM Oli’s trip

Nepal's foreign ministry, under its women foreign minister, Dr Arzu Rana Deuba is marking one year, a year that saw new people-centric measures, diplomatic outreach to neighbouring India, and mega summits like Sagarmatha Sambaad etc. The Fourth Oli Cabinet took charge on 15th July, 2024, with new foreign minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba taking charge that month.<h2>India outreach</h2>Her diplomatic innings opened with a key visit to India in August 2024, where she engaged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. A significant outcome was India’s decision to import an additional 251 MW of electricity from Nepal, bringing the total to nearly 1,000 MW. This marked a milestone in energy cooperation, boosting Nepal’s economy through electricity exports. Discussions also touched on operationalising additional port facilities for Nepal, enhancing trade and transit, and progress on the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project. Indian, Nepali foreign ministers have later met in Muscat and Delhi.<h2>People-centric measures</h2>The Ministry has been tackling internal challenges by conducting organization and management changes to address understaffing &amp; expand consular services. New consulates in Dallas, San Francisco, and Dubai, alongside mobile services, improved access for the Nepali diaspora, particularly in the US and Middle East has been the ongoing focus."Nepalis abroad have complained that they lack prompt access to passports and consular services. For example, there are currently at least 70,000 Nepalis in California, USA, and over 100,000 in Texas. They have to go to New York or Washington, D.C., to get consular services, compounding their difficulties. To address these difficulties, consulates general have been established in Dallas, San Francisco and Dubai in the UAE, following an O&amp;M survey in the ministry," the Ministry statement read.<h2>Repatriations of Nepalis in distress</h2>People-centric measures include rescue &amp; repatriation efforts for the Nepali diaspora during the Bangladesh protests of last year, &amp; during the Iran-Israel conflict this year. Following the request to the Indian government, 11 of 16 Nepalis returned to Nepal with the help of the Indian Embassy in Iran. A rapid response team was formed in the Nepali Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the speedy rescue and repatriation of Nepalis in the impacted west asian countries.In the case of Bipin Joshi, who is believed to be in Hamas custody, taken after the Oct 2023 terror attack, the foreign minister has reached out to several of her counterparts. Dr Rana has urged the foreign ministers of Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and Iran to take initiatives for Joshi's freedom.<h2>Economic diplomacy</h2>Economic diplomacy gained momentum with the creation of an Economic Diplomacy Division, focusing on attracting foreign investment and promoting exports as Nepal prepares for its 2026 LDC graduation.<h2>Multilateralism</h2>The FM visited China along with PM Oli, and also represented her country at global forums like G77, the G20 summit, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, the third ACD Summit in Doha, the sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, the Women Foreign Ministers' Conference in Canada, the 81st session of United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, the 58th High-Level Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, and the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi.Nepal has fielded candidacies for key positions in international bodies, especially for membership in the UN Human Rights Council (2027 to 2029), the Economic and Social Council (2029 to 2031) and as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2037 to 2038), and has been reaching out to countries for support. Addressing the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Dr Rana called for support from UN Member states.<h2>Climate Change</h2>The first edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad in May this year focused on issues of regional and global importance related to climate change. The dialogue brought together experts, policymakers, and representatives from over 20 countries. The mega meet has been in planning for years, and was postponed in the past due to the COVID pandemic.

New consulates in Dallas, San Francisco, and Dubai, alongside mobile services, improved access for the Nepali diaspora, particularly in the US and Middle East has been the ongoing focus.

Nepal's foreign ministry, under its women foreign minister, Dr Arzu Rana Deuba is marking one year, a year that saw new people-centric measures, diplomatic outreach to neighbouring India, and mega summits like Sagarmatha Sambaad etc. The Fourth Oli Cabinet took charge on 15th July, 2024, with new foreign minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba taking charge that month. India outreach Her diplomatic innings opened with a key visit to India in August 2024, where she engaged Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. A significant outcome was India’s decision to import an additional 251 MW of electricity from Nepal, bringing the total to nearly 1,000 MW. This marked a milestone in energy cooperation, boosting Nepal’s economy through electricity exports. Discussions also touched on operationalising additional port facilities for Nepal, enhancing trade and transit, and progress on the Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project. Indian, Nepali foreign ministers have later met in Muscat and Delhi. People-centric measures The Ministry has been tackling internal challenges by conducting organization and management changes to address understaffing & expand consular services. New consulates in Dallas, San Francisco, and Dubai, alongside mobile services, improved access for the Nepali diaspora, particularly in the US and Middle East has been the ongoing focus. "Nepalis abroad have complained that they lack prompt access to passports and consular services. For example, there are currently at least 70,000 Nepalis in California, USA, and over 100,000 in Texas. They have to go to New York or Washington, D.C., to get consular services, compounding their difficulties. To address these difficulties, consulates general have been established in Dallas, San Francisco and Dubai in the UAE, following an O&M survey in the ministry," the Ministry statement read. Repatriations of Nepalis in distress People-centric measures include rescue & repatriation efforts for the Nepali diaspora during the Bangladesh protests of last year, & during the Iran-Israel conflict this year. Following the request to the Indian government, 11 of 16 Nepalis returned to Nepal with the help of the Indian Embassy in Iran. A rapid response team was formed in the Nepali Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the speedy rescue and repatriation of Nepalis in the impacted west asian countries. In the case of Bipin Joshi, who is believed to be in Hamas custody, taken after the Oct 2023 terror attack, the foreign minister has reached out to several of her counterparts. Dr Rana has urged the foreign ministers of Israel, Qatar, Egypt, and Iran to take initiatives for Joshi's freedom. Economic diplomacy Economic diplomacy gained momentum with the creation of an Economic Diplomacy Division, focusing on attracting foreign investment and promoting exports as Nepal prepares for its 2026 LDC graduation. Multilateralism The FM visited China along with PM Oli, and also represented her country at global forums like G77, the G20 summit, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, the third ACD Summit in Doha, the sixth BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, the Women Foreign Ministers' Conference in Canada, the 81st session of United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) in Bangkok, the 58th High-Level Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, and the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. Nepal has fielded candidacies for key positions in international bodies, especially for membership in the UN Human Rights Council (2027 to 2029), the Economic and Social Council (2029 to 2031) and as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (2037 to 2038), and has been reaching out to countries for support. Addressing the 58th Session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Dr Rana called for support from UN Member states. Climate Change The first edition of Sagarmatha Sambaad in May this year focused on issues of regional and global importance related to climate change. The dialogue brought together experts, policymakers, and representatives from over 20 countries. The mega meet has been in planning for years, and was postponed in the past due to the COVID pandemic.

New consulates in Dallas, San Francisco, and Dubai, alongside mobile services, improved access for the Nepali diaspora, particularly in the US and the Middle East, have been the ongoing focus.

One year of Nepal FM Arzu: People centric measures, India outreach, multilateralism

Days after members of the student wing of the CPN-Unified Socialist, a party in Nepal’s ruling coalition burned an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while staging a protest, Nepal Home Ministry on Sunday termed the act as "disgraceful actions".&nbsp;

The ministry released a statement requesting people to not carry out any action “that may hurt the dignity and respect of the friendly nations.”

The CPN-Unified Socialist is&nbsp;a newly formed party led by Madhav Kumar Nepal and is part of the coalition government led by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.&nbsp;

They had staged a protest against the alleged involvement of the Indian Sashstra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel in an incident in which one Jaya Singh Dhami disappeared into the Mahakali river in the Darchuala district of Nepal.&nbsp;

“The activities of chanting slogans, holding demonstrations, protests and burning effigies to tarnish the image of the neighbouring friendly nation's Prime Minister has caught the attention of the Home Ministry. The ministry of home affairs expressed great objection towards such reprehensible&nbsp;and disgraceful actions,” the Home Ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

Highlighting the bilateral relations between India and Nepal, the ministry said, “The government of Nepal wishes to have a friendly relationship with all friendly nations and is determined not to let any activities that may harm the national interest.”

After being criticised for not solving the incident and alleged involvement of Indian SSB, it said, “We have a long tradition of solving the dispute with the neighbouring nation through diplomatic channels and mutual dialogue. In future as well, diplomatic initiative and mutual discourse will be utilised while solving any dispute.”

Following the incident, the Nepal government formed a committee to investigate the incident.&nbsp;An investigation committee consisting of bureaucrats and police officials has also confirmed the presence of Indian personnel’s presence in the incident site. However, it has failed to hold them responsible for the incident.

The Home Ministry further warned to take&nbsp;action against the act.&nbsp;“Home Ministry will take action in order to control the activities targeted against the friendly neighbouring nation and will punish those who involve themselves in such unlawful activities,” it said.

Days after members of the student wing of the CPN-Unified Socialist, a party in Nepal’s ruling coalition burned an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while staging a protest, Nepal Home Ministry on Sunday termed the act as "disgraceful actions".

Days after members of the student wing of the CPN-Unified Socialist, a party in Nepal’s ruling coalition burned an effigy of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi while staging a protest, Nepal Home Ministry on Sunday termed the act as "disgraceful actions". The ministry released a statement requesting people to not carry out any action “that may hurt the dignity and respect of the friendly nations.” The CPN-Unified Socialist is a newly formed party led by Madhav Kumar Nepal and is part of the coalition government led by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. They had staged a protest against the alleged involvement of the Indian Sashstra Seema Bal (SSB) personnel in an incident in which one Jaya Singh Dhami disappeared into the Mahakali river in the Darchuala district of Nepal. “The activities of chanting slogans, holding demonstrations, protests and burning effigies to tarnish the image of the neighbouring friendly nation's Prime Minister has caught the attention of the Home Ministry. The ministry of home affairs expressed great objection towards such reprehensible and disgraceful actions,” the Home Ministry said in a statement. Highlighting the bilateral relations between India and Nepal, the ministry said, “The government of Nepal wishes to have a friendly relationship with all friendly nations and is determined not to let any activities that may harm the national interest.” After being criticised for not solving the incident and alleged involvement of Indian SSB, it said, “We have a long tradition of solving the dispute with the neighbouring nation through diplomatic channels and mutual dialogue. In future as well, diplomatic initiative and mutual discourse will be utilised while solving any dispute.” Following the incident, the Nepal government formed a committee to investigate the incident. An investigation committee consisting of bureaucrats and police officials has also confirmed the presence of Indian personnel’s presence in the incident site. However, it has failed to hold them responsible for the incident. The Home Ministry further warned to take action against the act. “Home Ministry will take action in order to control the activities targeted against the friendly neighbouring nation and will punish those who involve themselves in such unlawful activities,” it said.

Nepal government objects to burning of Indian PM Modi's effigy in Kathmandu

Nepal Home Ministry on Monday sent a five-member probe panel to&nbsp;Darchula&nbsp;district to&nbsp;investigate the incident where a Nepalese man was washed away in Mahakali river along the Indian border.&nbsp;

The panel has been asked to submit its report within ten&nbsp;days after carrying out onsite investigation.

For now, the home ministry has dismissed the reports of India-Nepal border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) allegedly snapping the rope of an improvised cable.&nbsp;

“A five-member committee has been sent onsite to investigate the incident and after receiving the report we will see what further needs to be done. However, we have not received any reports of involvement of the Indian side in the mishap yet,” Phanindra Mani Pokharel, joint secretary of home ministry told WION.&nbsp;

The probe panel includes joint-secretary of the home ministry, Janardan Gautam, deputy inspector general of Nepal police, Purushottam Kandel, investigation officer of the national investigation department, Hutraj Thapa, senior superintendent of armed police force, Suresh Kumar Shrestha&nbsp;and assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta.&nbsp;

Assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta refused to speak to WION on the incident.&nbsp;

The mishap took place on Friday when Jaya Singh Dhami, 33, who was going to his home in Khalanga, fell into the river while trying to cross it through an improvised cable carriage.

A day after the incident, the Home Ministry issued a statement, asking the media to not disseminate "misleading" information&nbsp;as the incident was&nbsp;under investigation.

The ministry spokesperson, Fanindramani Pokharel, in the statement asked all concerned "not to publish any misleading news in the matter as the incident (SSB untying the cable) has not yet been proven true”.

A team of security forces have been deployed in&nbsp;the incident site for fact-finding purposes, the statement said.

In a separate statement, the Assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta had earlier said that her office has sent a letter to the local authority concerned in India to help initiate action for finding the facts related to the incident.

Earlier, CPN (UML) issued a statement strongly condemning the ‘inhuman and cruel incident’ death of Jaya Singh Dhami and had urged the government of Nepal to inquire properly and&nbsp;to seek clarification from India&nbsp;and to provide compensation.&nbsp;

Nepal Home Ministry on Monday sent a five-member probe panel to Darchula district to investigate the incident where a Nepalese man was washed away in Mahakali river along the Indian border.

Nepal Home Ministry on Monday sent a five-member probe panel to Darchula district to investigate the incident where a Nepalese man was washed away in Mahakali river along the Indian border. The panel has been asked to submit its report within ten days after carrying out onsite investigation. For now, the home ministry has dismissed the reports of India-Nepal border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) allegedly snapping the rope of an improvised cable. “A five-member committee has been sent onsite to investigate the incident and after receiving the report we will see what further needs to be done. However, we have not received any reports of involvement of the Indian side in the mishap yet,” Phanindra Mani Pokharel, joint secretary of home ministry told WION. The probe panel includes joint-secretary of the home ministry, Janardan Gautam, deputy inspector general of Nepal police, Purushottam Kandel, investigation officer of the national investigation department, Hutraj Thapa, senior superintendent of armed police force, Suresh Kumar Shrestha and assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta. Assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta refused to speak to WION on the incident. The mishap took place on Friday when Jaya Singh Dhami, 33, who was going to his home in Khalanga, fell into the river while trying to cross it through an improvised cable carriage. A day after the incident, the Home Ministry issued a statement, asking the media to not disseminate "misleading" information as the incident was under investigation. The ministry spokesperson, Fanindramani Pokharel, in the statement asked all concerned "not to publish any misleading news in the matter as the incident (SSB untying the cable) has not yet been proven true”. A team of security forces have been deployed in the incident site for fact-finding purposes, the statement said. In a separate statement, the Assistant chief district officer of Darchula, Jyotsana Bhatta had earlier said that her office has sent a letter to the local authority concerned in India to help initiate action for finding the facts related to the incident. Earlier, CPN (UML) issued a statement strongly condemning the ‘inhuman and cruel incident’ death of Jaya Singh Dhami and had urged the government of Nepal to inquire properly and to seek clarification from India and to provide compensation.

Nepal government sends team to investigate Darchula incident along Indian border

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay alluded to the relationship shared by its neighbours and urged them not to have any superiority complex.

Exclusive: Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli speaks to WION on India-Nepal ties

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "We have noted the recent political developments in Nepal. These are internal matters for Nepal to decide as per its democratic process."

"As a neighbour and well-wisher, India will continue to support Nepal and its people in moving forward on the path of peace prosperity and development," India's external affairs spokesman said.

In fact, it has been five days since the dissolution was announced which was followed by the split in the ruling Nepal Communist party with Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal splitting the party. On Friday, several writ petitions will be taken by a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal on the legality of the action of KP Sharma Oli.

And while political turmoil is underway, India continued its engagements to full fill the country's needs. On Wednesday, India and Nepal held inter-governmental discussions on the long-term supply of fertilizers from India to Nepal.

India's actions stand in contrast to the action of the Chinese envoy Hou Yanqi who had met Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal Communist Party fraction earlier this week.&nbsp;

In the past as well, she has been seen openly interfering in the internal political matters of the ruling Communist Party something that not only raised eyebrows but also has been making headline news in Nepal throughout this year.&nbsp;

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation. On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President.

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation. On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "We have noted the recent political developments in Nepal. These are internal matters for Nepal to decide as per its democratic process." "As a neighbour and well-wisher, India will continue to support Nepal and its people in moving forward on the path of peace prosperity and development," India's external affairs spokesman said. In fact, it has been five days since the dissolution was announced which was followed by the split in the ruling Nepal Communist party with Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal splitting the party. On Friday, several writ petitions will be taken by a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal on the legality of the action of KP Sharma Oli. And while political turmoil is underway, India continued its engagements to full fill the country's needs. On Wednesday, India and Nepal held inter-governmental discussions on the long-term supply of fertilizers from India to Nepal. India's actions stand in contrast to the action of the Chinese envoy Hou Yanqi who had met Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal Communist Party fraction earlier this week. In the past as well, she has been seen openly interfering in the internal political matters of the ruling Communist Party something that not only raised eyebrows but also has been making headline news in Nepal throughout this year.

Amid political turmoil in Nepal, India continues assistance

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepali counterpart KP Sharma Oli spoke on Saturday for the first time since a row broke out over a map and a disputed area of territory earlier this year between the South Asian neighbours, according to Reuters.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Nepali counterpart KP Sharma Oli spoke on Saturday for the first time since a row broke out over a map and a disputed area of territory earlier this year between the South Asian neighbours, according to Reuters. Oli called Modi on the occasion of India's Independence Day and congratulated him for the country's recent election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, India's external affairs ministry said in a statement. On the call, Modi "recalled the civilizational and cultural links that India and Nepal share," the ministry added. Also read: Nepal Parliament delays taking up constitutional amendment for controversial new map Nepal approved a political map of the country in June that included a region controlled by India. India rejected the map, saying it was not based on historical facts or evidence. Ties between both countries strained in May after India inaugurated an 80-km (50-mile) road from the northern state of Uttarakhand to Lipulekh on the border with the Tibet region of China, about 19 km of which passes through the area Nepal says belongs to it. In an Independence Day speech on Saturday, Modi called for peace and harmony in South Asia, adding that leaders, politicians and intellectuals should fulfil their responsibility to ensure development and progress in the region. Oli appreciated Modi's "renewed priority to neighbourhood" and "looked forward to meaningful bilateral cooperation," Nepal's foreign affairs ministry said in a statement. The leaders also discussed their efforts to curb the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, according to both the statements.

Indian and Nepali prime ministers speak for first time since map row

The realtions between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a&nbsp;bill to update map that includes Indian territories.

Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised as wants to&nbsp;junk all traditional ties and dump centuries of freindship.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-government-denies-bihars-water-resource-department-from-constructing-embankment-lays-claim-over-land-307583">Nepal government denies Bihar's Water Resource Department from constructing embankment; lays claim over land</a>

The instances&nbsp;of Nepal's growing aggression towards India are as follows:

Nepal is redrawing its boundaries

From Uttarakhand to Bihar, Kathmandu is laying claim on Indian land and the provocation is unprecedented. Every advancement the nation makes is threat for India.

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Nepal is moving its troops to the border with India. It has bult a helipad, is planting tents and&nbsp;building camps.

Nepalese forces are becoming more aggressive

They opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepals-upper-house-passes-bill-to-update-map-that-includes-indian-territories-306754">Nepal's Upper House passes bill to update map that includes Indian territories</a>

Kathmandu is indulging in radio warfare

Nepal's fm&nbsp;radio is playing anti-india songs as well as&nbsp;beaming propaganda in villages along the border.

The Nepal parliament is passing laws indirectly aimed at Indian citizens.

An Indian woman marrying a Nepali man will take seven years to become a citizen.

Driving this anti-India sentiment is Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.He is whipping up ultra-nationalistic sentiments to survive a rebellion.

However, he has been called out for his hypocrisy on territorial nationalism..

China is encroaching into Nepal's land through an ongoing road expansion project in Tibet according to Nepal's&nbsp;agricultural department which conducted&nbsp;a survey last year.

The alarming findings included the fact that China has encroached 36 hectares of land in four different districts of Nepal.

Around 6 hectares of land in Nepal's Humla district, 4 hectares&nbsp;in Karnali district, 10 in the Sindhu-Pal-Chowk district and 9 hectares in Sankhu-Wa-Sabha.

It&nbsp;may be sending its army to keep this land under its control.

The agricultural department had warned 'there is a high possibility that over the period of time, china may develop its border observation post of armed police in those territories.''

Ironically, Oli is doing nothing to stop this encroachment.

China has launched massive road development projects in the Tibet autonomous region.

These projects have led to rivers changing their course.They have expanded China's boundaries into northern territories of Nepal.

The Nepalese media extensively reported on this but all its reports were either subdued or ignored.

Instead, Oli&nbsp;is amping up differences with India over imaginary encroachments.

When India constructed a road on the indian side of the border, Nepal cried foul.

Their prime minister seized the opportunity to complain about territorial integrity.

Integrity that goes missing when it comes to China. The fear of a rebellion appears to&nbsp;explains this outstanding hypocrisy.

The ruling Nepal Communist party is dealing with constant infighting and is on the brink of collapse.

Saving it&nbsp;is its guide and creditor the Chinese Communist Party.

The Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu is solving internal disputes, instigating anti-India sentiments and pushing the Nepal government to pick fights.

The deputy chief of Nepal comunnist party's foreign affairs department, Bishnu rijal called ''roti-beti ka rishta'' an ''old rhetoric''

There's a huge political divide in Nepal over the government's actions and words.

Political leaders in Nepal are now saying that the Oli government is dancing to the dragon's tune.

In a tweet, Bimalendra Nidhi, the vice president of the Nepali congress, the principal opposition party in Nepal, said that

''The arrival of chinese troops in near Mount Everest and Himalayas is to&nbsp;assist and teach Chinese. The government is being trained by the Chinese party.

The youth and opposition in the country are demanding answers from Oli and it is his duty to answer them.

He is accountable for his actions because Nepal is a democracy unlike china. As it is, territorial nationalism will only take him so far.&nbsp;

The realtions between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories.

The realtions between India and Nepal are on the edge of a precipice after the latter's Upper House passed a bill to update map that includes Indian territories. Kathmandu's foreign policy towards New Delhi is becoming increasingly politicised as wants to junk all traditional ties and dump centuries of freindship. Also read: Nepal government denies Bihar's Water Resource Department from constructing embankment; lays claim over land The instances of Nepal's growing aggression towards India are as follows: Nepal is redrawing its boundaries From Uttarakhand to Bihar, Kathmandu is laying claim on Indian land and the provocation is unprecedented. Every advancement the nation makes is threat for India. × Nepal is moving its troops to the border with India. It has bult a helipad, is planting tents and building camps. Nepalese forces are becoming more aggressive They opened fire on a group of villagers along the Bihar border last week in which an Indian citizen lost his life. Also read: Nepal's Upper House passes bill to update map that includes Indian territories Kathmandu is indulging in radio warfare Nepal's fm radio is playing anti-india songs as well as beaming propaganda in villages along the border. The Nepal parliament is passing laws indirectly aimed at Indian citizens. An Indian woman marrying a Nepali man will take seven years to become a citizen. Driving this anti-India sentiment is Nepal's Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli.He is whipping up ultra-nationalistic sentiments to survive a rebellion. However, he has been called out for his hypocrisy on territorial nationalism.. China is encroaching into Nepal's land through an ongoing road expansion project in Tibet according to Nepal's agricultural department which conducted a survey last year. The alarming findings included the fact that China has encroached 36 hectares of land in four different districts of Nepal. Around 6 hectares of land in Nepal's Humla district, 4 hectares in Karnali district, 10 in the Sindhu-Pal-Chowk district and 9 hectares in Sankhu-Wa-Sabha. It may be sending its army to keep this land under its control. The agricultural department had warned 'there is a high possibility that over the period of time, china may develop its border observation post of armed police in those territories.'' Ironically, Oli is doing nothing to stop this encroachment. China has launched massive road development projects in the Tibet autonomous region. These projects have led to rivers changing their course.They have expanded China's boundaries into northern territories of Nepal. The Nepalese media extensively reported on this but all its reports were either subdued or ignored. Instead, Oli is amping up differences with India over imaginary encroachments. When India constructed a road on the indian side of the border, Nepal cried foul. Their prime minister seized the opportunity to complain about territorial integrity. Integrity that goes missing when it comes to China. The fear of a rebellion appears to explains this outstanding hypocrisy. The ruling Nepal Communist party is dealing with constant infighting and is on the brink of collapse. Saving it is its guide and creditor the Chinese Communist Party. The Chinese Embassy in Kathmandu is solving internal disputes, instigating anti-India sentiments and pushing the Nepal government to pick fights. The deputy chief of Nepal comunnist party's foreign affairs department, Bishnu rijal called ''roti-beti ka rishta'' an ''old rhetoric'' There's a huge political divide in Nepal over the government's actions and words. Political leaders in Nepal are now saying that the Oli government is dancing to the dragon's tune. In a tweet, Bimalendra Nidhi, the vice president of the Nepali congress, the principal opposition party in Nepal, said that ''The arrival of chinese troops in near Mount Everest and Himalayas is to assist and teach Chinese. The government is being trained by the Chinese party. The youth and opposition in the country are demanding answers from Oli and it is his duty to answer them. He is accountable for his actions because Nepal is a democracy unlike china. As it is, territorial nationalism will only take him so far.

Edge of precipice? Nepal's growing aggression towards India

Nepal has yet again contested its international border with India and this time the area of contention happens to be Nepal border with the Indian state of Bihar. Watch report.

India-Nepal ties strained: Nepal contests border with India, Lays eyes on Indian territories

Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal raking the Lipulekh issue even as Nepal said it will publish new maps showing the territory among others as part of its own.

Army Chief speaking at a think tank IDSA's online meet said, "I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility."

While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known. Nepal claims Lipulekh which is at the tri-junction of China, India and Nepal and is part of Indian territory. Meanwhile, Nepali President addressing the joint session of the Parliament said new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers disputed and is under Indian territory.

Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said, "Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal."

Elaborating Nepali government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "Outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts and evidences."

Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue last week when India inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.&nbsp;

Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal raking the Lipulekh issue even as Nepal said it will publish new maps showing the territory among others as part of its own.

Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane on Friday hinted at foreign involvement with Nepal raking the Lipulekh issue even as Nepal said it will publish new maps showing the territory among others as part of its own. Army Chief speaking at a think tank IDSA's online meet said, "I do not know exactly what they are exactly agitating about. Never been a problem in the past, reasons to believe they might have raised these problems, issues at the behest of someone else and there is very much a possibility." While names have not been taken, Chinese increased involvement in the country is something that is well known. Nepal claims Lipulekh which is at the tri-junction of China, India and Nepal and is part of Indian territory. Meanwhile, Nepali President addressing the joint session of the Parliament said new maps of the country will be published that will show all areas it considers disputed and is under Indian territory. Nepal President Bidhya Devi Bhandari said, "Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani region are Nepal's territory and concrete diplomatic efforts will be taken towards reclaiming these territories. An official map of Nepal will be published accordingly incorporating all the territories of Nepal." Elaborating Nepali government's approach, Bhandari explained that the "government of Nepal is committed to safeguarding the international borders of Nepal" and "Outstanding border disputes with India will be resolved through diplomatic medium relying on available historical treaties, maps, facts and evidences." Kathmandu raised the chorus over the issue last week when India inaugurated a new road from Dharchula to Lipulekh that will reduce the time taken for Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage. The ongoing dispute is not new and dates back to 1816 when under the Treaty of Sugauli, King of Nepal lost parts of its territory to British including Kalapani and Lipulekh.

Indian army chief Naravane hints at foreign involvement over Nepal's Lipulekh issue

Nepal’s ban on India’s Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000 notes should not come as a surprise to India. It is also an opportunity for China to make Nepal shift gradually towards using the yuan instead of the Indian rupee. Yet to see Nepal’s decision as one driven by China and not its own national interests would be a gross misreading of the situation. The decision requires to be seen in the correct perspective by New Delhi for crafting an adequate response to what is clearly a challenge affecting millions of Nepalese, including in India.

In fact, it is surprising that Nepal’s demonetisation of high-value notes was so long in coming, i.e. more than two years after India demonetised notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. Nepal, like Bhutan, has always used and traded in Indian rupees. Simply because it was easier to do so. At the same time, long before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s note ban, notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 were banned in Nepal. Most transactions were restricted to notes of Rs 100 and lesser value. More than the current ban, the actual surprise is that Nepal had allowed free use of the new notes of Rs 2000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 till recently though there were large sections, especially of business and trade, that did not accept these.

The reasons why Nepal let the high-value notes circulate for two years can only be speculated upon. One of the reasons is said to be that Nepal was negotiating exchange of the demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes; and, that Nepal Rastra Bank reportedly holds over $1 billion worth of these erstwhile notes. Therefore, it did not reiterate the ban after demonetisation because it expected GoI to accommodate its interests. Recent economic upheavals in Nepal and India combined with political changes on both sides of the border had resulted in an erosion of confidence in the Indian currency. There was a marked decline in the usage of Indian money. And, pending political stability, Nepal did not want to worsen the economic situation by banning the newly issued Indian notes. That would have been unsettling for businessmen, traders, migrants, Nepalese workers in India, tourists and the millions of Nepalese who keep their savings in cash at home.

Earlier this year, Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli had said that demonetisation hurt countries like Nepal and Bhutan where the Indian rupee is widely used. He had said that he would take this up with Indian leaders. Therefore, the speculation that Nepal’s ban on the new Indian notes is retaliation for India refusing to replace its stock of demonetised notes (of Rs 1000 and Rs 500) with new ones. It is undeniable that the Nepalese economy and people have lost billions of rupees, which they can scarce afford to, because of India’s demonetisation.

The ban on Indian notes of Rs 1000 and Rs 500, long before November 2016, has its origins in the rumour that most of the counterfeit Indian currency originates in Nepal – either produced there by anti-Indian elements or is transported from there across the porous Nepal-India border. Doubtless, Nepal was one of the places from where criminal elements would bring in fake currency of high value. But there was no basis for saying that Nepal is the only place from where bulk of the counterfeit currency came. All that the rumour achieved was to make Nepal ban notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000.

Regardless of the reasons, it is clear that demonetisation has demolished confidence in the Indian currency in the neighbourhood where the rupee was much valued especially as a savings instrument. India must respond without falling victim to conspiracy theories of the decision being an outcome of a Nepal-China plot.

India is Nepal’s largest trading partner and supplies bulk of Nepal’s essentials and consumer goods. India is also home to millions of Nepalese and the ‘Sarkar’ is paying pension to legions of Gorkha ex-servicemen. There is no way China can take the place of India vis-à-vis Nepal, and it is for India to reinforce its position and strengthen ties.

In the present case, India should help Nepal implement its decision and, at the same time, uphold the primacy of the Indian rupee. The first step in this direction is to enable the Nepalese (and Indian tourists going to Nepal, who are mostly from middle and lower income groups) to freely and easily exchange their high-value currency for Rs 100 notes.

Such actions will revive confidence in India and the Indian currency. That is a necessary condition for resolving the larger issue of dealing with the cross-border movement of black money and counterfeit currency, which is at the root of Nepal’s demonetisation.

How New Delhi responds will decide whether Nepal is bound closer to India or pushed into China’s embrace.

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-need-to-revive-nepal-s-confidence-in-indian-currency-2698128">original article)</a>

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

Nepal’s ban on India’s Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000 notes should not come as a surprise to India. It is also an opportunity for China to make Nepal shift gradually towards using the yuan instead of the Indian rupee.

Nepal’s ban on India’s Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000 notes should not come as a surprise to India. It is also an opportunity for China to make Nepal shift gradually towards using the yuan instead of the Indian rupee. Yet to see Nepal’s decision as one driven by China and not its own national interests would be a gross misreading of the situation. The decision requires to be seen in the correct perspective by New Delhi for crafting an adequate response to what is clearly a challenge affecting millions of Nepalese, including in India. In fact, it is surprising that Nepal’s demonetisation of high-value notes was so long in coming, i.e. more than two years after India demonetised notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. Nepal, like Bhutan, has always used and traded in Indian rupees. Simply because it was easier to do so. At the same time, long before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s note ban, notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 were banned in Nepal. Most transactions were restricted to notes of Rs 100 and lesser value. More than the current ban, the actual surprise is that Nepal had allowed free use of the new notes of Rs 2000, Rs 500 and Rs 200 till recently though there were large sections, especially of business and trade, that did not accept these. The reasons why Nepal let the high-value notes circulate for two years can only be speculated upon. One of the reasons is said to be that Nepal was negotiating exchange of the demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes; and, that Nepal Rastra Bank reportedly holds over $1 billion worth of these erstwhile notes. Therefore, it did not reiterate the ban after demonetisation because it expected GoI to accommodate its interests. Recent economic upheavals in Nepal and India combined with political changes on both sides of the border had resulted in an erosion of confidence in the Indian currency. There was a marked decline in the usage of Indian money. And, pending political stability, Nepal did not want to worsen the economic situation by banning the newly issued Indian notes. That would have been unsettling for businessmen, traders, migrants, Nepalese workers in India, tourists and the millions of Nepalese who keep their savings in cash at home. Earlier this year, Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli had said that demonetisation hurt countries like Nepal and Bhutan where the Indian rupee is widely used. He had said that he would take this up with Indian leaders. Therefore, the speculation that Nepal’s ban on the new Indian notes is retaliation for India refusing to replace its stock of demonetised notes (of Rs 1000 and Rs 500) with new ones. It is undeniable that the Nepalese economy and people have lost billions of rupees, which they can scarce afford to, because of India’s demonetisation. The ban on Indian notes of Rs 1000 and Rs 500, long before November 2016, has its origins in the rumour that most of the counterfeit Indian currency originates in Nepal – either produced there by anti-Indian elements or is transported from there across the porous Nepal-India border. Doubtless, Nepal was one of the places from where criminal elements would bring in fake currency of high value. But there was no basis for saying that Nepal is the only place from where bulk of the counterfeit currency came. All that the rumour achieved was to make Nepal ban notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. Regardless of the reasons, it is clear that demonetisation has demolished confidence in the Indian currency in the neighbourhood where the rupee was much valued especially as a savings instrument. India must respond without falling victim to conspiracy theories of the decision being an outcome of a Nepal-China plot. India is Nepal’s largest trading partner and supplies bulk of Nepal’s essentials and consumer goods. India is also home to millions of Nepalese and the ‘Sarkar’ is paying pension to legions of Gorkha ex-servicemen. There is no way China can take the place of India vis-à-vis Nepal, and it is for India to reinforce its position and strengthen ties. In the present case, India should help Nepal implement its decision and, at the same time, uphold the primacy of the Indian rupee. The first step in this direction is to enable the Nepalese (and Indian tourists going to Nepal, who are mostly from middle and lower income groups) to freely and easily exchange their high-value currency for Rs 100 notes. Such actions will revive confidence in India and the Indian currency. That is a necessary condition for resolving the larger issue of dealing with the cross-border movement of black money and counterfeit currency, which is at the root of Nepal’s demonetisation. How New Delhi responds will decide whether Nepal is bound closer to India or pushed into China’s embrace. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Need to revive Nepal’s confidence in Indian currency

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his two-day visit to Nepal Friday, a lot will be at stake. This will be the Indian prime minister's third visit to the country. First after taking charge, then for the Saarc summit, and now this third visit. What is more important is that PM Modi’s visit happens just one month after Nepal’s PM visited India. As a tradition, India is the first destination of any Nepali PM after taking charge.

Faith diplomacy

The main focus of the visit will be faith diplomacy. The Indian PM will be visiting three cities will be visiting a temple in all three. In Janakpur he will be visiting the Janki Devi temple, the birthplace of Devi Sita. In Kathmandu he will visit Pashupatinath and in Muktinath he will visit a Shiv temple.

At the Janki Devi, PM Modi along with Nepal’s PM will flag off the Janakpur-Ayodhya bus service. It has an important symbolism since the birth place of goddess Sita will be connected with Lord Ram’s birth place.

As Indian Ambassador to Nepal told WION, "Janakpur has an abiding link with India". 
 
This will be PM Modi's second visit to Pashupatinath. He first visited the temple during his first visit to Nepal. Muktinath in north Nepal holds significance for both Hindus and Buddhists.

All these temples see a lot of Indian pilgrims visiting and offering prayers. Clearly, the Indian PM is leveraging diplomacy with faith. His mission neighbourhood is taking a new hue.

Ahead of the visit, in an exclusive conversation with WION, Nepal’s foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that the visit is a manifestation of how broad the India Nepal relationship is and the government of Nepal has high hopes from the visit. On the blockade, he said that past is past and past cannot overshadow the future. On the growing Chinese influence in Nepal he said it’s a perception and Nepal wants to pursue an "independent" foreign policy.

The Chinese worry

China remains a worry for New Delhi. And China has been expanding its influence in Nepal. It has announced a number of connectivity projects. Nepal is a part of China's one belt one road initiative.

So is India's influence in Kathmandu. No, says Constantino Xavier, a fellow at Carnegie India. He told WION that Nepal has a certain special relation with India and Nepal’s PM Oli knows about that. Calling Indian PM Modi’s visit symbolic, he said Nepal is India’s most important bilateral.

But walk on the streets of Thamel in Kathmandu. It’s the main business area of the Nepal capital and all the sign boards are either in English or Chinese. Sometimes no English, only Chinese. We spoke to many people on the street. They confirmed what was evident. China is here to stay. With more than 200 chinese shops and hotels, China not only has presence but a growing presence.

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The growing chinese influence in Nepal. Signboards in Thamel which is the business area of Kathmandu are either in English or Chinese. <a href="https://t.co/CrtebhLKmG">pic.twitter.com/CrtebhLKmG</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/994177462127882241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

 
Eminent Nepali Journalist Yubaraj Ghimire said since India pushed a radical agenda, Nepali people lost trust. On the contrary China and Nepal have no misunderstanding and China has been able to give the impression that it operates in the national sovereignty system of Nepal.

India’s ties with Nepal suffered a blow after India failed to welcome Nepal’s constitution since it did not give much rights to Indian-origin Madhesi people. A Madhesi journalist Gopal Jha said the Madhesi issue was the internal issue of Nepal. Expressing confidence on India Nepal ties, he added that PM Modi’s 3rd visit to Nepal shows India is giving value to the relationship.

A railway to Kathmandu

But India is fast understanding, it's time to understand the needs of Nepal. It has been focusing on infrastructure and connectivity. The Indian and Nepali prime ministers will jointly, through video conferencing, inaugurate the ARUN 3 hydroelectric power project, the biggest in Nepal. On the connectivity front, India is going to build a railway line from Kathmandu to Raxaul. This will connect the Kathmandu valley to the Indian railway network. So, one day one can travel from Delhi to Kathmandu on train and it is expected to be an engineering marvel. India and Nepal will sign an agreement on waterways navigation on Kosi and both will soon announce the first meeting of India and Nepal agriculture ministers. But it is connectivity vs connectivity. China has its own connectivity plans with Nepal. No longer do the mighty Himalayas pose a geographical barrier between Nepal and China which is ready to pass right through the mighty mountains to build connecting bridges with Nepal. Beijing even suggested a China, India and Nepal connectivity plan but New Delhi wasn't enthusiastic about it. India is suspicious and rightly so. A China, India and Nepal connectivity plan can flood Indian markets with Chinese products.

Kathmandu ready to welcome PM Modi

Excitement is palpable in Kathmandu. Security has been beefed up. Nepal’s PM had a special meeting with former prime ministers of Nepal, all coming to this conclusion that national interest should be kept first.The streets of Kathmandu have already been lined up with Indian and Nepali flags. The Nepali media is all full of the Indian PM’s visit. Some lauding it, some asking to remain cautious but everyone is covering it. Delhi, Kathmandu ties might have seen many ups and down, it’s the people to people contact that are sustaining Indo-Nepal ties. But this visit is all about focusing on the specialness in this special relationship. The 3 Cs — Connectivity, Culture and Cooperation.

&nbsp;

China remains a worry for New Delhi. And China has been expanding its influence in Nepal

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi begins his two-day visit to Nepal Friday, a lot will be at stake. This will be the Indian prime minister's third visit to the country. First after taking charge, then for the Saarc summit, and now this third visit. What is more important is that PM Modi’s visit happens just one month after Nepal’s PM visited India. As a tradition, India is the first destination of any Nepali PM after taking charge. Faith diplomacy The main focus of the visit will be faith diplomacy. The Indian PM will be visiting three cities will be visiting a temple in all three. In Janakpur he will be visiting the Janki Devi temple, the birthplace of Devi Sita. In Kathmandu he will visit Pashupatinath and in Muktinath he will visit a Shiv temple. At the Janki Devi, PM Modi along with Nepal’s PM will flag off the Janakpur-Ayodhya bus service. It has an important symbolism since the birth place of goddess Sita will be connected with Lord Ram’s birth place. As Indian Ambassador to Nepal told WION, "Janakpur has an abiding link with India". This will be PM Modi's second visit to Pashupatinath. He first visited the temple during his first visit to Nepal. Muktinath in north Nepal holds significance for both Hindus and Buddhists. All these temples see a lot of Indian pilgrims visiting and offering prayers. Clearly, the Indian PM is leveraging diplomacy with faith. His mission neighbourhood is taking a new hue. Ahead of the visit, in an exclusive conversation with WION, Nepal’s foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that the visit is a manifestation of how broad the India Nepal relationship is and the government of Nepal has high hopes from the visit. On the blockade, he said that past is past and past cannot overshadow the future. On the growing Chinese influence in Nepal he said it’s a perception and Nepal wants to pursue an "independent" foreign policy. The Chinese worry China remains a worry for New Delhi. And China has been expanding its influence in Nepal. It has announced a number of connectivity projects. Nepal is a part of China's one belt one road initiative. So is India's influence in Kathmandu. No, says Constantino Xavier, a fellow at Carnegie India. He told WION that Nepal has a certain special relation with India and Nepal’s PM Oli knows about that. Calling Indian PM Modi’s visit symbolic, he said Nepal is India’s most important bilateral. But walk on the streets of Thamel in Kathmandu. It’s the main business area of the Nepal capital and all the sign boards are either in English or Chinese. Sometimes no English, only Chinese. We spoke to many people on the street. They confirmed what was evident. China is here to stay. With more than 200 chinese shops and hotels, China not only has presence but a growing presence. The growing chinese influence in Nepal. Signboards in Thamel which is the business area of Kathmandu are either in English or Chinese. pic.twitter.com/CrtebhLKmG — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) May 9, 2018 × Eminent Nepali Journalist Yubaraj Ghimire said since India pushed a radical agenda, Nepali people lost trust. On the contrary China and Nepal have no misunderstanding and China has been able to give the impression that it operates in the national sovereignty system of Nepal. India’s ties with Nepal suffered a blow after India failed to welcome Nepal’s constitution since it did not give much rights to Indian-origin Madhesi people. A Madhesi journalist Gopal Jha said the Madhesi issue was the internal issue of Nepal. Expressing confidence on India Nepal ties, he added that PM Modi’s 3rd visit to Nepal shows India is giving value to the relationship. A railway to Kathmandu But India is fast understanding, it's time to understand the needs of Nepal. It has been focusing on infrastructure and connectivity. The Indian and Nepali prime ministers will jointly, through video conferencing, inaugurate the ARUN 3 hydroelectric power project, the biggest in Nepal. On the connectivity front, India is going to build a railway line from Kathmandu to Raxaul. This will connect the Kathmandu valley to the Indian railway network. So, one day one can travel from Delhi to Kathmandu on train and it is expected to be an engineering marvel. India and Nepal will sign an agreement on waterways navigation on Kosi and both will soon announce the first meeting of India and Nepal agriculture ministers. But it is connectivity vs connectivity. China has its own connectivity plans with Nepal. No longer do the mighty Himalayas pose a geographical barrier between Nepal and China which is ready to pass right through the mighty mountains to build connecting bridges with Nepal. Beijing even suggested a China, India and Nepal connectivity plan but New Delhi wasn't enthusiastic about it. India is suspicious and rightly so. A China, India and Nepal connectivity plan can flood Indian markets with Chinese products. Kathmandu ready to welcome PM Modi Excitement is palpable in Kathmandu. Security has been beefed up. Nepal’s PM had a special meeting with former prime ministers of Nepal, all coming to this conclusion that national interest should be kept first.The streets of Kathmandu have already been lined up with Indian and Nepali flags. The Nepali media is all full of the Indian PM’s visit. Some lauding it, some asking to remain cautious but everyone is covering it. Delhi, Kathmandu ties might have seen many ups and down, it’s the people to people contact that are sustaining Indo-Nepal ties. But this visit is all about focusing on the specialness in this special relationship. The 3 Cs — Connectivity, Culture and Cooperation.

PM Modi's Nepal visit: Focus on infrastructure and connectivity, but mostly faith

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