The Indian border on NE states is on high alert. Air India and Indigo cancelled all the flights to Nepal.
India’s neighborhood looks unstable because of a mix of historical baggage, fragile institutions, economic pressures, and big-power interference. Nepal’s “usurpation” talk is fringe, not a serious geopolitical threat — but India does need to keep a watchful eye, especially on how China shapes Kathmandu’s politics.
Pakistan – From the Partition in 1947, both countries inherited trauma, mistrust, and a disputed border (Kashmir). Pakistan has had frequent political instability, military dominance over civilian governments, and internal conflicts, all of which spill into its relationship with India.
Sri Lanka – This country faced a brutal 26-year civil war (Sinhalese vs Tamil Tigers), and even after that, it has struggled with ethnic divides, economic collapse (especially in 2022), and foreign debt traps (notably from China).
Nepal – Traditionally a buffer state between India and China. Political instability (monarchy → democracy → Maoist insurgency → fragile republic) has made it vulnerable to external influence. Some nationalist factions float irredentist claims (like saying parts of Uttarakhand or NE states belong to them), but these are fringe positions, often tied to China’s subtle influence on Kathmandu politics.
Bangladesh – Despite strong cultural and trade ties with India, it has its share of turmoil, political rivalry (Awami League vs BNP), Islamist extremism, and refugee challenges (Rohingya crisis). The relationship with India oscillates depending on who’s in power.
India’s neighbors don’t openly break ties (except Pakistan, which keeps things hostile), but they occasionally poke or pressure India. Now this Nepal problem!
What are your views on -- the relationship between India and its neighbors, is it Partnership or perpetual tensions?
Indian Mythology
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