(a) India-Pakistan Relations
India and Pakistan have shared a complex and often tense relationship since their independence in 1947. The relationship is shaped by historical conflicts, border disputes, and diplomatic efforts to improve ties.
Key Issues in India-Pakistan Relations
1. Kashmir Dispute:
– The primary source of conflict, leading to multiple wars (1947, 1965, 1971, and Kargil in 1999).
– The revocation of Article 370 (2019) in Jammu and Kashmir worsened diplomatic ties.
2. Cross-Border Terrorism:
– Pakistan-based terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) have been involved in attacks on Indian soil (e.g., Mumbai attacks 2008, Pulwama attack 2019).
3. Trade and Economic Relations:
– Despite tensions, trade has fluctuated over the years. However, after the Pulwama attack (2019), India revoked Pakistan’s Most Favored Nation (MFN) trade status.
4. Water Sharing Dispute:
– The Indus Waters Treaty (1960) governs river-sharing, but disputes persist over hydroelectric projects.
Efforts for Peace and Cooperation
– Agra Summit (2001), Lahore Declaration (1999), Composite Dialogue Process aimed at resolving issues diplomatically.
– Track-II Diplomacy: People-to-people initiatives and cultural exchanges have been attempted.
Despite periods of peace, border skirmishes, terrorism, and political mistrust continue to challenge India-Pakistan relations. A diplomatic and security-driven approach is crucial for ensuring regional stability.
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(b) India-Nepal Relations
India and Nepal share deep historical, cultural, and economic ties, strengthened by geographical proximity and an open-border policy. However, recent years have witnessed tensions alongside strong cooperation.
Key Aspects of India-Nepal Relations
1. Geopolitical and Strategic Ties:
– India is Nepal’s largest trade partner and foreign investor.
– Nepal serves as a buffer between India and China, making it strategically significant.
2. Economic and Infrastructure Cooperation:
– India supports Nepal in hydropower projects, road construction, and trade connectivity.
– The Mahakali Treaty (1996) governs water-sharing agreements.
3. Security Cooperation:
– The 1950 Indo-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship allows free movement of people and cooperation in defense.
– India provides training and assistance to Nepal’s military.
4. Border and Territorial Disputes:
– The Kalapani-Lipulekh dispute has strained relations, as Nepal claims territories that India controls.
– Nepal’s new political map (2020) depicting Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Limpiyadhura as part of Nepal worsened tensions.
5. China’s Growing Influence:
– Nepal’s increasing economic dependence on China under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a concern for India.
Way Forward for India-Nepal Relations
– Strengthening diplomatic engagement to resolve border disputes peacefully.
– Enhancing economic integration and trade ties.
– Promoting people-to-people exchanges through tourism and cultural cooperation.
While India and Nepal share strong historical and socio-cultural ties, maintaining mutual trust and addressing geopolitical tensions are crucial for long-term stability and cooperation.