On May 16, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Lumbini, Nepal, for Buddha Purnima, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

This will be Modi's fifth visit to Nepal since taking power in 2014, but his first since re-election in 2019.

He will also meet with Nepal Prime Minister SherBahadur Deuba at Lumbini for a bilateral meeting.

At Lumbini, the Prime Minister will visit the sacred Mayadevi temple to offer prayers. The Prime Minister will also deliver an address at a Buddha Jayanti event organised by the Lumbini Development Trust under the aegis of the Government of Nepal.

Let's take a look at the significance of the site where all of these major events will take place:&nbsp;

Lumbini, the Lord Buddha's birthplace

The Lord Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, was born in Lumbini's famous gardens in 623 B.C., which quickly became a pilgrimage site.&nbsp;

The Indian monarch Ashoka was among the pilgrims, and one of his commemorative pillars was constructed there.&nbsp;

The site is now being developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage centre, including the archaeological relics linked to the Lord Buddha's birth as a central element.

Lumbini was incredibly lovely during Buddha's time and was filled with gardens with shaded Sal trees.&nbsp;

The Shakyas and Kolias clans held these lovely gardens. Lumbini and its temple, as well as a bathing pool, were forgotten until German archaeologists unearthed them in 1895. Lumbini is also known for the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka of India's commemorative pillar, which is supposed to have been erected in 249 BC during his journey to Lumbini.

Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini

Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lumbini.

A sacred pool (known as Puskarni) and a sacred garden are located near the temple. The site's archaeological remains have previously been dated to Ashoka's third-century BCE brick constructions. In 2013, a timber shrine from the sixth century BCE was unearthed.

On May 16, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Lumbini, Nepal, for Buddha Purnima, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. This will be Modi's fifth visit to Nepal since taking power in 2014, but his first since re-election in 2019.

On May 16, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Lumbini, Nepal, for Buddha Purnima, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. This will be Modi's fifth visit to Nepal since taking power in 2014, but his first since re-election in 2019. He will also meet with Nepal Prime Minister SherBahadur Deuba at Lumbini for a bilateral meeting. At Lumbini, the Prime Minister will visit the sacred Mayadevi temple to offer prayers. The Prime Minister will also deliver an address at a Buddha Jayanti event organised by the Lumbini Development Trust under the aegis of the Government of Nepal. Let's take a look at the significance of the site where all of these major events will take place: Lumbini, the Lord Buddha's birthplace The Lord Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, was born in Lumbini's famous gardens in 623 B.C., which quickly became a pilgrimage site. The Indian monarch Ashoka was among the pilgrims, and one of his commemorative pillars was constructed there. The site is now being developed as a Buddhist pilgrimage centre, including the archaeological relics linked to the Lord Buddha's birth as a central element. Lumbini was incredibly lovely during Buddha's time and was filled with gardens with shaded Sal trees. The Shakyas and Kolias clans held these lovely gardens. Lumbini and its temple, as well as a bathing pool, were forgotten until German archaeologists unearthed them in 1895. Lumbini is also known for the Mauryan Emperor Ashoka of India's commemorative pillar, which is supposed to have been erected in 249 BC during his journey to Lumbini. Maya Devi Temple, Lumbini Maya Devi Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lumbini. A sacred pool (known as Puskarni) and a sacred garden are located near the temple. The site's archaeological remains have previously been dated to Ashoka's third-century BCE brick constructions. In 2013, a timber shrine from the sixth century BCE was unearthed.

The importance of Lumbini, the Nepalese town Indian PM Modi visiting

Sticking with the tradition during high-level exchanges between India and Nepal, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a visit to Nepal’s Lumbini on May 16.&nbsp;

This will be the fifth visit of PM Modi to Nepal.

Prime Minister Modi will attend the special ceremony on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini.&nbsp;

“The Prime Minister of India together with the Prime Minister of Nepal will participate in a prayer at the Mayadevi Temple, lay the foundation stone for the construction of a centre for Buddhist culture and heritage at the Monastic Zone in Lumbini, and address the special ceremony to be organised to celebrate Buddha Jayanti at the Lumbini International Buddhist Meditation Centre and Assembly Hall,” Nepal’s foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

While in Lumbini, the two prime ministers will hold bilateral talks and exchange views on Nepal-India cooperation and matters of mutual interests.&nbsp;

During the visit, Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will also call on the Indian prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nepal's foreign ministry said&nbsp;the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister of India will contribute to further strengthening the bilateral relations and the age-old socio-cultural bonds between the two countries.

As per the Indian foreign ministry, Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a speech at a Buddha Jayanti event organised by the Lumbini Development Trust under the aegis of the Government of Nepal.

Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba had paid a visit to India in April after being sworn-in in July. It was the prime minister’s first bilateral visit abroad, in keeping with the tradition.&nbsp;

During Deuba’s visit, one of the highlights was the operationalisation of the 35-kilometre cross-border rail from Bihar Jayanagar, India, to Kurtha, Nepal. The Konkan Railway Corporation will provide the necessary technical support initially.&nbsp;

The second project that was inaugurated was the 90-km-long 132 kV double circuit transmission line connecting Tila, Solukhumbu and Mirchaiya, Siraha, which is close to the Indian border.&nbsp;

In addition to the above mentioned, agreements providing technical cooperation in the railway sector, Nepal’s induction into the International Solar Alliance, and a pact between Indian Oil Corporation and Nepal Oil Corporation on ensuring regular supplies of petroleum products were also signed.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, India has formally proposed Naveen Srivastava as the new ambassador to Nepal, as per sources.&nbsp;

Srivastava, who currently heads the East Asia division in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been playing a key role in diplomatic and military talks with China to tackle the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh that began two years ago.&nbsp;

Srivastava is set to succeed Vinay Kwatra, who was appointed as the foreign secretary.

Sticking with the tradition during high-level exchanges between India and Nepal, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a visit to Nepal’s Lumbini on May 16.

Sticking with the tradition during high-level exchanges between India and Nepal, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a visit to Nepal’s Lumbini on May 16. This will be the fifth visit of PM Modi to Nepal. Prime Minister Modi will attend the special ceremony on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Jayanti in Lumbini. “The Prime Minister of India together with the Prime Minister of Nepal will participate in a prayer at the Mayadevi Temple, lay the foundation stone for the construction of a centre for Buddhist culture and heritage at the Monastic Zone in Lumbini, and address the special ceremony to be organised to celebrate Buddha Jayanti at the Lumbini International Buddhist Meditation Centre and Assembly Hall,” Nepal’s foreign ministry said in a statement. While in Lumbini, the two prime ministers will hold bilateral talks and exchange views on Nepal-India cooperation and matters of mutual interests. During the visit, Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will also call on the Indian prime minister. Nepal's foreign ministry said the upcoming visit of the Prime Minister of India will contribute to further strengthening the bilateral relations and the age-old socio-cultural bonds between the two countries. As per the Indian foreign ministry, Prime Minister Modi will also deliver a speech at a Buddha Jayanti event organised by the Lumbini Development Trust under the aegis of the Government of Nepal. Nepal Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba had paid a visit to India in April after being sworn-in in July. It was the prime minister’s first bilateral visit abroad, in keeping with the tradition. During Deuba’s visit, one of the highlights was the operationalisation of the 35-kilometre cross-border rail from Bihar Jayanagar, India, to Kurtha, Nepal. The Konkan Railway Corporation will provide the necessary technical support initially. The second project that was inaugurated was the 90-km-long 132 kV double circuit transmission line connecting Tila, Solukhumbu and Mirchaiya, Siraha, which is close to the Indian border. In addition to the above mentioned, agreements providing technical cooperation in the railway sector, Nepal’s induction into the International Solar Alliance, and a pact between Indian Oil Corporation and Nepal Oil Corporation on ensuring regular supplies of petroleum products were also signed. Meanwhile, India has formally proposed Naveen Srivastava as the new ambassador to Nepal, as per sources. Srivastava, who currently heads the East Asia division in the Ministry of External Affairs, has been playing a key role in diplomatic and military talks with China to tackle the military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh that began two years ago. Srivastava is set to succeed Vinay Kwatra, who was appointed as the foreign secretary.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Nepal on Buddha Jayanti 

In his first comments since presenting his credentials to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the new Ambassador of Nepal, Dr Shankar P Sharma, has called India a "country of higher significance to Nepal".

Ambassador Shankar presented his credentials to the president on Wednesday at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Dr Shankar recalled the recent visit of Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba to India saying that it "generated a kind of momentum towards further promoting goodwill understanding and also cooperation between the two countries".

The Nepalese PM was in Delhi and Varanasi in April—his first bilateral visit since taking charge last year.

The ambassador said, "I would like to take up these things and try to see how I can be more effective in strengthening our bilateral relationship between the two countries, including in connectivity and all aspects of socio-economic development of the country and emerging issues".

During the Nepal PM's visit, several pacts were signed, including giving a green signal to the 35-km-long cross border railway line linking Bihar's Jaynagar to Nepal's Kurtha that will enhance connectivity.

Following the credential ceremony, the Nepalese envoy called on the president during which he conveyed greetings from Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari and the Nepal PM.

According to the Nepal government press release, the Indian president "stated that Nepal is a priority country to India and New Delhi attaches deep value to its relationship" with the Himalayan country.

He also recalled Indian cooperation in the socio-economic sectors, including the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, railways while emphasising digital, physical, and financial connectivity.

The ceremony involving the presentation of credentials comes days before PM Modi’s visit to Nepal.

PM Modi will be in Nepal's Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, on Monday where he will not only take part in prayers but also inaugurate key infrastructure projects, including an airport.

PM's visit to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, comes on the day when the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima is celebrated.

In his first comments since presenting his credentials to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the new Ambassador of Nepal, Dr Shankar P Sharma, has called India a "country of higher significance to Nepal".

In his first comments since presenting his credentials to Indian President Ram Nath Kovind, the new Ambassador of Nepal, Dr Shankar P Sharma, has called India a "country of higher significance to Nepal". Ambassador Shankar presented his credentials to the president on Wednesday at the Rashtrapati Bhawan. Speaking exclusively to WION, Dr Shankar recalled the recent visit of Nepal PM Sher Bahadur Deuba to India saying that it "generated a kind of momentum towards further promoting goodwill understanding and also cooperation between the two countries". The Nepalese PM was in Delhi and Varanasi in April—his first bilateral visit since taking charge last year. The ambassador said, "I would like to take up these things and try to see how I can be more effective in strengthening our bilateral relationship between the two countries, including in connectivity and all aspects of socio-economic development of the country and emerging issues". During the Nepal PM's visit, several pacts were signed, including giving a green signal to the 35-km-long cross border railway line linking Bihar's Jaynagar to Nepal's Kurtha that will enhance connectivity. Following the credential ceremony, the Nepalese envoy called on the president during which he conveyed greetings from Nepal President Bidya Devi Bhandari and the Nepal PM. According to the Nepal government press release, the Indian president "stated that Nepal is a priority country to India and New Delhi attaches deep value to its relationship" with the Himalayan country. He also recalled Indian cooperation in the socio-economic sectors, including the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, railways while emphasising digital, physical, and financial connectivity. The ceremony involving the presentation of credentials comes days before PM Modi’s visit to Nepal. PM Modi will be in Nepal's Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, on Monday where he will not only take part in prayers but also inaugurate key infrastructure projects, including an airport. PM's visit to Lumbini, the birthplace of Gautam Buddha, comes on the day when the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima is celebrated.

India is a country of higher significance, Nepal's new envoy Dr Shankar P Sharma tells WION

Calling his visit to Nepal "historic" on Twitter, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was a great opportunity to connect with the people of Nepal.

PM Modi also said that talks with Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli were "productive".

"Talks with PM Oli were productive. New vigour has been added to India-Nepal relations through this visit. Gratitude to the people and Government of Nepal for their warmth," tweeted the Indian prime minister at the conclusion of his tour.

In a joint statement earlier in the day, the two Prime Ministers agreed to maintain the momentum generated by the visit by taking effective measures for the implementation of all the agreements and understandings reached in the past.

They also agreed that effective implementation of the bilateral initiatives in agriculture, railway linkages and inland waterways development, as agreed upon by the two sides during the recent visit of Prime Minister Oli to India, would have a transformational impact in these areas, the joint statement said.

The two leaders reiterated their resolve to work together to take bilateral relations to newer heights by strengthening ongoing cooperation in diverse spheres as well as expanding partnership for socio-economic development on the basis of the principles of equality, mutual trust, respect and mutual benefit, the statement said.

They emphasised the need for regular convening of bilateral mechanisms, including Nepal-India Joint Commission at Foreign/External Affairs Ministers level, to review the overall state of bilateral relations, and for the expeditious implementation of the economic and development cooperation projects.

The two leaders underscored the importance of regional and sub-regional cooperation under BIMSTEC, SAARC, and BBIN frameworks for forging meaningful cooperation in identified sectors.

Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Oli to pay a visit to India. Oli accepted the invitation. The dates will be finalised through diplomatic channels.&nbsp

PM Modi also said that talks with Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli were 'productive'

Calling his visit to Nepal "historic" on Twitter, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it was a great opportunity to connect with the people of Nepal. PM Modi also said that talks with Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli were "productive". "Talks with PM Oli were productive. New vigour has been added to India-Nepal relations through this visit. Gratitude to the people and Government of Nepal for their warmth," tweeted the Indian prime minister at the conclusion of his tour. In a joint statement earlier in the day, the two Prime Ministers agreed to maintain the momentum generated by the visit by taking effective measures for the implementation of all the agreements and understandings reached in the past. They also agreed that effective implementation of the bilateral initiatives in agriculture, railway linkages and inland waterways development, as agreed upon by the two sides during the recent visit of Prime Minister Oli to India, would have a transformational impact in these areas, the joint statement said. The two leaders reiterated their resolve to work together to take bilateral relations to newer heights by strengthening ongoing cooperation in diverse spheres as well as expanding partnership for socio-economic development on the basis of the principles of equality, mutual trust, respect and mutual benefit, the statement said. They emphasised the need for regular convening of bilateral mechanisms, including Nepal-India Joint Commission at Foreign/External Affairs Ministers level, to review the overall state of bilateral relations, and for the expeditious implementation of the economic and development cooperation projects. The two leaders underscored the importance of regional and sub-regional cooperation under BIMSTEC, SAARC, and BBIN frameworks for forging meaningful cooperation in identified sectors. Prime Minister Modi extended an invitation to Oli to pay a visit to India. Oli accepted the invitation. The dates will be finalised through diplomatic channels.

Visit to Nepal 'historic', tweets PM Modi

Hailing Nepal's successful journey from bullets to ballots, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today that India is ready to be the "sherpa" (mountain guide) to help Nepal scale the mountain of success

&nbsp;PM Modi, who was addressing a civic reception programme in his honour in Kathmandu, stressed on the special relationship shared by the two neighbours and admired Nepal's spirit of resilience and commitment towards democracy.

"Nepal has covered a long journey from Yuddh to Buddh (War to Peace). You have left the bullet to opt the ballot way. But this not the destination. You have to go a long way," PM Modi told the gathering.

"You have reached the base camp of the Mt Everest and the main climb is yet to be done. And the way mountaineers are strongly helped by Sherpas to scale the summit, much the same way India is ready to work as the Sherpa for Nepal," he said, amid applause.&nbsp;

Modi said Nepal would help India in its development journey.&nbsp;

"India will stand shoulder-to-shoulder to help Nepal in its development journey. In your success lies our success, in your happiness lies India's happiness."

The Indian prime minister said "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (inclusive development for all)" was as much about global well being as it was about India's growth.

"India has always worked for global good. India has taken the lead in mitigating the menace of climate change. The International Solar Alliance has brought together nations from across the world," PM Modi said.&nbsp;

PM Modi congratulated Nepalese people for their combined strengths to rebuild the country after the devastating earthquake of 2015. He also congratulated them for the Constitution that reshaped the country's political history by embracing federal system.

He also lauded the atmosphere of optimism in Nepal.

"There is an atmosphere of hope and optimism in Nepal," Modi said, adding that India would always become partner to Nepal's progress.

The Indian Prime Minister described Kathmandu as a mixture of the ancient and the modern and said the city showcased the culture of Nepal.&nbsp;

"There is something unique about the beauty of Kathmandu. It's a special city. It has an important place in the history of the world," he said.

"Nepal is a country of diversity and Kathmandu is a world in its own," Modi said. "The diversity gives fresh air to any outsider."

He also said that the work has begun on the detailed project report for linking Kathmandu to India via rail network.

PM Modi also expressed his desire to travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in his future visit.

"During my previous visits I prayed at Pashupatinath. This time, in addition to Pashupatinath, I went to Janakpur and Muktinath. These places illustrate close ties between our nations," he said.

He repeated 'Nepal Bhaarat Maitri Amar Rahos (Long live Nepal-India Friendship)' thrice at the end of his speech.

The Indian prime minister highlighted the role of the Indian Premier League in strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Nepal.

He pitched for "more sports" engagement in future to "connect" the two countries.

"Today we are connected by cricket as a Nepali boy is a part of Indian Premier League (IPL)," Modi said, referring to Sandeep Lamichhane who became the first cricketer from Nepal to land an IPL contract when he was picked by Delhi Daredevils at the players auction in January.

"This connection with cricket will strengthen our people to people ties and I hope there are more sports through which we can connect," Modi said. 
 
Earlier, Kathmandu Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya presented symbolic key of the city to Modi, &nbsp;symbolising that the door to Kathmandu would always remain open for him.

The Indian prime minister was also presented with various memoir tokens including a 55-kg Lord Buddha statue. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

PM Modi stressed on the special relationship shared by the two neighbours and admired Nepal's spirit of resilience and commitment towards democracy

Hailing Nepal's successful journey from bullets to ballots, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said today that India is ready to be the "sherpa" (mountain guide) to help Nepal scale the mountain of success PM Modi, who was addressing a civic reception programme in his honour in Kathmandu, stressed on the special relationship shared by the two neighbours and admired Nepal's spirit of resilience and commitment towards democracy. "Nepal has covered a long journey from Yuddh to Buddh (War to Peace). You have left the bullet to opt the ballot way. But this not the destination. You have to go a long way," PM Modi told the gathering. "You have reached the base camp of the Mt Everest and the main climb is yet to be done. And the way mountaineers are strongly helped by Sherpas to scale the summit, much the same way India is ready to work as the Sherpa for Nepal," he said, amid applause. Modi said Nepal would help India in its development journey. "India will stand shoulder-to-shoulder to help Nepal in its development journey. In your success lies our success, in your happiness lies India's happiness." The Indian prime minister said "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas (inclusive development for all)" was as much about global well being as it was about India's growth. "India has always worked for global good. India has taken the lead in mitigating the menace of climate change. The International Solar Alliance has brought together nations from across the world," PM Modi said. PM Modi congratulated Nepalese people for their combined strengths to rebuild the country after the devastating earthquake of 2015. He also congratulated them for the Constitution that reshaped the country's political history by embracing federal system. He also lauded the atmosphere of optimism in Nepal. "There is an atmosphere of hope and optimism in Nepal," Modi said, adding that India would always become partner to Nepal's progress. The Indian Prime Minister described Kathmandu as a mixture of the ancient and the modern and said the city showcased the culture of Nepal. "There is something unique about the beauty of Kathmandu. It's a special city. It has an important place in the history of the world," he said. "Nepal is a country of diversity and Kathmandu is a world in its own," Modi said. "The diversity gives fresh air to any outsider." He also said that the work has begun on the detailed project report for linking Kathmandu to India via rail network. PM Modi also expressed his desire to travel to Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha in his future visit. "During my previous visits I prayed at Pashupatinath. This time, in addition to Pashupatinath, I went to Janakpur and Muktinath. These places illustrate close ties between our nations," he said. He repeated 'Nepal Bhaarat Maitri Amar Rahos (Long live Nepal-India Friendship)' thrice at the end of his speech. The Indian prime minister highlighted the role of the Indian Premier League in strengthening people-to-people ties between India and Nepal. He pitched for "more sports" engagement in future to "connect" the two countries. "Today we are connected by cricket as a Nepali boy is a part of Indian Premier League (IPL)," Modi said, referring to Sandeep Lamichhane who became the first cricketer from Nepal to land an IPL contract when he was picked by Delhi Daredevils at the players auction in January. "This connection with cricket will strengthen our people to people ties and I hope there are more sports through which we can connect," Modi said. Earlier, Kathmandu Mayor Bidya Sundar Shakya presented symbolic key of the city to Modi, symbolising that the door to Kathmandu would always remain open for him. The Indian prime minister was also presented with various memoir tokens including a 55-kg Lord Buddha statue. (With inputs from PTI)

India ready to be 'sherpa' to help Nepal scale mountain of success: PM Modi

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

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly directly to Janakpur, famous for Janaki Temple, from Bihar's capital Patna on May 11 during his two-day official visit to Nepal, Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa said on Tuesday.

Thapa said that Modi's visit will take the centuries-old social and religious relations between the two countries to a new height.

Security has been stepped up in Janakpur, 225 km south of Kathmandu, which is famous for the Janaki Temple, the early 20th century shrine.

Nepal's Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli will welcome Modi, who will take part in a civil felicitation programme, said Thapa, who was in Janakpur to take stock of the situation and check security arrangements.

He was accompanied by Nepal's Home Secretary Dev Kumar Rai and chiefs of all three security agencies, the Himalayan Times reported.

Modi will be in Nepal on May 11 and 12.

The Indian Prime Minister will board an Indian Air Force airplane from New Delhi to reach Patna airport, from where, he along with other delegates and his security will fly to Janakpur on three helicopters, the report quoted Thapa as saying.

The choppers will land at Bahra Bigha in Janakpur, where Modi will offer worship at the Janaki Temple and later fly to Mustang, the report said, quoting the travel itinerary made public by the government.&nbsp

Later in the day, Modi will arrive in Kathmandu, it said.

 
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Security has been stepped up in Janakpur, 225 km south of Kathmandu, which is famous for the Janaki Temple, the early 20th century shrine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will fly directly to Janakpur, famous for Janaki Temple, from Bihar's capital Patna on May 11 during his two-day official visit to Nepal, Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa said on Tuesday. Thapa said that Modi's visit will take the centuries-old social and religious relations between the two countries to a new height. Security has been stepped up in Janakpur, 225 km south of Kathmandu, which is famous for the Janaki Temple, the early 20th century shrine. Nepal's Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli will welcome Modi, who will take part in a civil felicitation programme, said Thapa, who was in Janakpur to take stock of the situation and check security arrangements. He was accompanied by Nepal's Home Secretary Dev Kumar Rai and chiefs of all three security agencies, the Himalayan Times reported. Modi will be in Nepal on May 11 and 12. The Indian Prime Minister will board an Indian Air Force airplane from New Delhi to reach Patna airport, from where, he along with other delegates and his security will fly to Janakpur on three helicopters, the report quoted Thapa as saying. The choppers will land at Bahra Bigha in Janakpur, where Modi will offer worship at the Janaki Temple and later fly to Mustang, the report said, quoting the travel itinerary made public by the government. Later in the day, Modi will arrive in Kathmandu, it said.

PM Modi to fly to Nepal temple site on May 11

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