Hindu Editorial Analysis : 16-May-2024
Nepal has recently introduced a new Rs 100 currency note that has stirred controversy. This note features a map that includes Indian territories—Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani. These areas have been part of India’s official map since November 2019, leading to heightened tensions between the two neighboring countries.
India-Nepal Relations
Historical and Cultural Connections
The relationship between India and Nepal is rooted in centuries of shared history. Here are some key aspects:
- Longstanding Ties: Both countries have a deep cultural connection, marked by exchanges in religion, language, and traditions.
- Open Border: The open border policy allows people from both nations to travel freely, fostering strong personal and familial ties.
- Shared Heritage: The two nations celebrate a rich heritage of Hindu and Buddhist traditions, evident in their festivals and pilgrimage sites.
- Friendship Treaty: The India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship, signed in 1950, underpins their special relationship.
Strategic Partnership
India and Nepal cooperate closely on various strategic fronts:
- Security Cooperation: India provides training and equipment to the Nepali Army, strengthening defense ties. Joint military exercises, like SURYA KIRAN, take place alternately in both countries.
- Hydropower Development: India is a key partner in developing Nepal’s hydropower sector, essential for meeting its energy needs.
Economic & Humanitarian Ties
India plays a crucial role in Nepal’s economy:
- Economic Interdependence: India is Nepal’s largest trading partner, facilitating numerous trade agreements.
- Humanitarian Assistance: Following the devastating 2015 earthquake, India led a major disaster relief operation, demonstrating strong ties.
Challenges and Tensions
Despite the close relationship, several challenges persist:
- Border Disputes: Disagreements over territories like Kalapani have been a source of conflict. Nepal asserts these areas are part of its territory as per the 1816 Treaty of Sugauli.
- Water Sharing: Disputes regarding transboundary rivers can escalate tensions between the nations.
- Security Issues: Nepal has faced challenges with cross-border smuggling and terrorism, creating security concerns for India.
- Political Instability: Frequent changes in Nepal’s government have complicated diplomatic relations and facilitated internal unrest.
- External Influences: Nepal seeks to diversify its foreign relations, sometimes aligning more closely with China, which adds complexity to its ties with India.
Why In News
Nepal recently announced the printing of a new Rs 100 currency note featuring a map that includes the Indian territories of Lipulekh, Limpiyadhura, and Kalapani, a move that has reignited longstanding border disputes and sparked strong reactions from India.
MCQs about The New Rs 100 Currency Note in Nepal
- What recent action did Nepal take regarding its currency?
A. Introduced a new Rs 100 coin
B. Printed a new Rs 100 currency note featuring a controversial map
C. Changed the currency design entirely
D. Removed the Indian territories from its currency
- Which treaty forms the foundation of the special relationship between India and Nepal?
A. Treaty of Sugauli
B. Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation
C. Treaty of Peace and Friendship
D. Indo-Nepal Defense Treaty
- What role does India play in Nepal’s economic development?
A. India does not engage in Nepal’s economy
B. India is a major partner in Nepal’s hydropower development
C. India primarily focuses on military aid
D. India is Nepal’s only trading partner
- What is one of the main challenges in the India-Nepal relationship?
A. Complete economic dependence
B. Unresolved territorial disputes
C. A lack of cultural ties
D. Absence of a border policy
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