Why Nepal in the Indo-Pacific?
Introduction:
Nepal, formally the Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, is a landlocked nation in South Asia’s central Himalayas. Seven states, 77 districts, and 753 local units—six metropolises, eleven sub-metropolises, 246 municipal councils, and 481 villages—make up the nation of Nepal. With 26.4 million people living in it, it ranks 93rd in terms of total area. It is the biggest independent state in the Himalayas, bordering China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. Nepal is home to eight of the ten highest mountains in the world, including Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth, as well as lush plains and subalpine wooded hills. The major city and capital of the country is Kathmandu.
INDIA-NEPAL BILATERAL RELATIONS :
Overview:
India and Nepal are near neighbours with distinct bonds of friendship and collaboration defined by open borders and enduring kinship and cultural exchanges. People have been able to move freely across borders for a very long time. The five Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand border Nepal by more than 1850 kilometres.
The cornerstone of the unique relationship between India and Nepal is the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship between the two countries. According to the terms of the Treaty, citizens of Nepal have access to the same opportunities and amenities as citizens of India. In India, there are about 8 million Nepalese nationals that are employed.
DEFENCE COOPERATION:
India and Nepal have a close defence partnership, as seen by the equipment, training, and disaster support India provides to the Nepal Army. The 14th iteration of “SURYA KIRAN,” a joint military exercise that promotes cooperation, took place in December 2019.
In recognition of their close bilateral relations, both countries have awarded their respective Army Chiefs the honorary general rank since 1950. The hill districts of Nepal are the source of recruits for India’s Gorkha regiments; today, 32,000 Gorkha troops are part of the Indian Army.
With offices in Pokhara and Dharan as well as District Soldier Boards around Nepal, the Defence Wing of the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu is in charge of things like pensions, welfare programmes, and retraining initiatives for former Gorkha soldiers and their families.
“Forging Links and Building Partnerships for Development”
Via a comprehensive programme, India is actively assisting Nepal’s development, focusing on rural development, health, education, water resources, and grassroots infrastructure. Upgrading ten roads in the Terai region, building cross-border rail connections at Jaynagar-Bardibas and Jogbani-Biratnagar, and erecting Integrated Check Posts at strategic sites are examples of recent joint projects.
In the ‘Aid to Nepal’ budget for the 2019–20 fiscal year, INR 1200 crore was set aside. In 2018, two notable inaugurations took place: the Nepal-Bharat Maitri Pashupati Dharmashala and the Birgunj Integrated Check Post. A further $1.65 billion in lines of credit are available for infrastructure development, including post-earthquake reconstruction.
With the establishment of the ‘India-Nepal New Partnership in Agriculture’ in 2018, which prioritises cooperative projects in agricultural research, development, and education, the cooperative spirit also extends to the field of agriculture. This endeavour is especially important because both countries’ economies are largely dependent on agriculture. In June 2018, the New Partnership in Agriculture held its first ministerial meeting, which strengthened this collaborative endeavour even more.
Cooperation for Water Resources :
One of the most significant aspects of bilateral relations is cooperation in water resources, particularly as it relates to the shared rivers. A significant portion of the Ganges river basins are made up of the numerous small and big rivers that flow from Nepal to India. These rivers could develop into important irrigation and energy resources for India and Nepal. Established in 2008, a three-tier bilateral mechanism has been effectively discussing issues related to collaboration between the two nations in the areas of water resources, flood management, inundation, and hydropower.
ENERGY COOPERATION:
India and Nepal have a long history of energy cooperation, dating back to their 1971 Power Exchange Agreement. Power exchange in border areas is facilitated by more than twenty transmission interconnections.
The GoI LoC-funded 400 kV cross-border electricity transmission line between Dhalkebar, Nepal, and Muzaffarpur, India, was finished in 2016. With the help of a GoI funding, two 132 kV cross-border transmission lines were completed in 2017.
At the moment, India provides Nepal with about 600 MW of electricity. In order to improve cross-border power commerce and transmission of electricity, the ‘Electric Power commerce, Cross-border Transmission Interconnection and Grid Connectivity’ Agreement was signed in 2014.
Joint Technical Team (JTT), Joint Working Group (JWG), and Joint Steering Committee (JSC) procedures were formed for an integrated gearbox plan that will last until 2035.Additionally, South Asia’s first cross-border petroleum products pipeline, connecting Motihari in India to Amlekhgunj in Nepal, was inaugurated in September 2019.
Indian Investment in Nepal:
With over 30% of all authorised foreign direct investments going to Nepal, Indian companies are among the biggest investors in the country. Approximately 150 Indian businesses are active in the manufacturing, power, tourism, banking, insurance, dry port, education, and telecom sectors in Nepal.
ITC, Dabur India, Hindustan Unilever, VSNL, TCIL, MTNL, Asian Paints, CONCOR, GMR India, IL&FS, Manipal Group, MIT Group Holdings, Nupur International, Transworld Group, Patel Engineering, Bhilwara Energy, Bhushan Group, Feedback Ventures, RJ Corp, KSK Energy, Berger Paints, Essel Infra Project Ltd., and Tata Power, India are a few of the major Indian investors.
EDUCATION:
One of the main facets of bilateral cooperation has been India’s assistance to Nepal’s human resource development throughout the years. Every year, GoI offers about 3000 scholarships or seats to citizens of Nepal for a range of programmes at the Ph.D./Masters, Bachelors, and plus-two levels in India and Nepal.
Numerous academic fields are covered by these scholarships, such as computer applications, business administration, engineering, medicine, agriculture, pharmacy, veterinary sciences, and the arts and music.
INDIAN COMMUNITY IN NEPAL:
Approximately 6,000,000 Indians are either residents or have their permanent residence in Nepal. These comprise long-term residents of Nepal, professionals (such as doctors, engineers, and IT staff), and labourers (such as seasonal or migratory workers in the construction industry). On September 14, 1990, the Indian Citizens’ Association (ICA) of Nepal was established. With branches in Pokhara, Damak, and Bhairahawa, ICA is the only association of Indian residents living in Nepal. It aims to safeguard the legitimate interests of its members and offers a forum for discussion on related topics.
What is Nepal known for ?
Nepal is renowned for:
1. The Himalayan Mountains:
Nepal is a trekking and mountaineering enthusiast’s paradise, home to eight of the world’s fourteen tallest peaks, including Mount Everest.
2. A Wealthy Cultural Legacy:
Nepal is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic sites of the Kathmandu Valley, as well as a multitude of distinct cultures and age-old traditions.
3. Spiritual Sites:
Nepal is a major destination for spiritual and religious interests because of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha, and other sacred sites.
4. Travel for Adventure:
In addition to hiking, Nepal provides exhilarating pursuits like wildlife safaris, paragliding, and white-water rafting in its national parks.
5. Traditional Arts and Crafts:
The rich artistic traditions of Nepal are reflected in its beautiful wood carvings, Thangka paintings, and handwoven textiles.
6. Warm Welcome:
Nepalese hospitality, renowned for its warm and inviting people, lends a unique charm to the traveller experience.
7. Various Plant and Animal Life:
Bengal tigers and one-horned rhinoceroses are only two examples of the amazing diversity of wildlife found in the nation’s national parks, which include Sagarmatha and Chitwan.
8. The Warriors of Gurkha:
Renowned Gurkha warriors are known for their valour and have served in many different military forces across the world. They were recruited from Nepal.
9. Customary Celebrations:
Holidays such as Dashain and Tihar are eagerly anticipated and provide tourists with an opportunity to experience lively cultural celebrations.
10. Tiered Tea Gardens:
The Ilam area is well-known for its verdant tea gardens, which yield premium tea in a picturesque setting.
Nepal is also known as:
As the “Land of Mount Everest” Nepal is home to the highest peak in the world, and it is also referred to as the “Roof of the World” because of its location in the Himalayas. It is also frequently referred to as the “Birthplace of Buddha” since Lumbini is the sacred birthplace of Buddhism’s founder, Siddhartha Gautama.
What language is spoken in Nepal?
The official language and most frequently spoken language in Nepal is Nepali, sometimes referred to as Gorkhali. The vast majority of people speak it as their mother tongue. Nepal is also home to a wide variety of ethnic groups, each of which contributes to the linguistic diversity of the nation by having its own languages and dialects.
What currency is used in Nepal?
The Nepalese Rupee, often known as the रू or NPR, is the country’s official currency
World heritage sites in Nepal?
Several UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be found in Nepal, including:
1. the Kathmandu Valley:
-Kathmandu Durbar Square
-Patan Durbar Square
-Bhaktapur Durbar Square
-Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
-Pashupatinath Temple
-Changunarayan Temple
2. Lumbini:
– The birthplace of Lord Buddha, renowned for its monastery zones and holy garden.
3. Chitwan National Park:
– Known for its abundant biodiversity, the park is home to endangered species such as the Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.
4. Sagarmatha National Park:
– The location of the highest peak in the world, Mount Everest.
5. Boudhanath Stupa:
A massive stupa and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
6. Hanuman Dhoka Palace:
The historic Hanuman Dhoka Palace Complex in Kathmandu is home to a number of courtyards and temples.
The rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage of Nepal is showcased in these UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Nepal’s cultural landscape :
Nepal’s topography and past have had a significant impact on the country’s rich and varied culture. Key facets of Nepalese culture are as follows:
1. Religious Diversity:
– The two main, peacefully coexisting religions are Buddhism and Hinduism. These beliefs are the foundation of several celebrations and customs.
2. Festivals:
– The two main Hindu holidays, Dashain and Tihar, are observed with large family get-togethers and intricate ceremonies.
– Many people celebrate Buddha Jayanti and Holi, the festival of colours.
3. Traditional Apparel:
– The vibrant Dhaka topi and gunyu cholo, respectively, are examples of the traditional clothing worn by several ethnic groups.
4. Art and Architecture:
– Extensive wood carvings, thangka paintings, and Newari metalwork are examples of the rich artistic legacy. Historic palaces and temples, such as those in Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, have distinctive architectural designs.
5. Music and Dancing:
– A variety of traditional musical styles, such as folk, classical, and religious.
– At festivals, traditional dances like Tamang Selo and Maak Dance are performed.
6. Cuisine:
– A mainstay is Dal Bhat, which is lentil soup served with rice. Popular foods are various curries and momos (dumplings).
– With a tradition of savouring tea variations like masala chai, tea culture is vital.
7. Handicrafts:
– Expertise in weaving, metalworking, and ceramics, creating elaborate handcrafted goods.
8. Cultural holidays:
Among the holidays marked with elaborate processions and customs are Indra Jatra in Patan, Mani Rimdu in the Everest region, and Indra Jatra in Kathmandu.
MOUNT EVEREST:
“SAGARMATHA” Of course! One of the most notable features of the Himalayan range is Mount Everest, the highest peak on earth. Here’s a quick conversation:
Elevation:
– Mount Everest is located 29,031.7 feet (8,848.86 metres) above sea level.
Location:
– Located on the boundary separating China’s autonomous province of Tibet from Nepal.
– Mount Everest, also called “Chomolungma” in Tibetan and “Sagarmatha” in Nepali, has the name of Sir George Everest, a British surveyor general of India.
Climbing Challenges:
– Because of its tremendous altitude, severe weather, and difficult terrain, climbing Everest is an extremely difficult task.
Cultural Diversity:
– The Sherpa and Tibetan influences have shaped the local way of life, contributing to the cultural diversity of the Everest region.
Environmental Concerns:
– The Himalayan ecology is being impacted by climate change, and waste management is one of the environmental problems Everest faces.
Climbing Season:
– April through May, when the weather is generally consistent, is the main climbing season.
*Human Achievements:* – A number of successful ascents of Everest have occurred, setting significant records in the history of mountaineering.
Environmental Conservation:
– To protect the unspoiled Himalayan ecosystem surrounding Everest, continuous initiatives are being made to address environmental issues and encourage sustainable tourism.
In addition to being the highest point on Earth, Mount Everest is a representation of human discovery, tenacity, and the precarious balance that must be struck between adventure and environmental preservation in one of the world’s most stunning landscapes.
Conclusion:
In summary, Nepal is a fascinating nation famous for its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. It is tucked away in the midst of the Himalayas. Nepal provides a varied tapestry of natural treasures, from the tall peaks—including the well-known Mount Everest—to the lush lowlands and varied ecosystems.
The harmonic fusion of Buddhism and Hinduism has produced the mosaic of culture, which is represented in the vivid festivals, historic temples, and friendly locals. The ancient cities of Patan, Bhaktapur, and Kathmandu are known for their elaborate architecture and long-standing customs, while pilgrimage sites like Lumbini, the location of Buddha’s birth, give the nation an extra spiritual appeal.
Nepal’s emphasis on infrastructure, energy cooperation, and collaborations with neighbouring nations demonstrate the country’s dedication to sustainable development.The growing adventure tourism sector highlights the critical balance between environmental preservation and discovery, as do ongoing conservation initiatives.
Nepal’s ageless allure endures as a beacon for tourists looking for more than just a place to visit; rather, it is an immersive experience where spirituality, culture, and nature come together to create a singular and enriching tapestry.