NEPAL – CHINA CLOSENESS:WHAT INDIA LOSES?

India and Nepal are not only linked due to the proximity of land, but it is the cultural affinity that binds the two nations. The common linguistic and ethnic identities, Hindu religious practices, similar festivals, affinity of food, resemblance of dresses, and the overall way of thinking, all make inseparable ties between India and Nepal. Added to this range of similarities and affinities, is the presence of many prominent Nepali political leaders that have their ancestors or relatives in India. Some view this as a domination created by well thought moves of the Indian government since Independence; while others regard it as historical civilizational inter-linkages. No matter with what lens one looks at it, the relationship between India and Nepal is an age-old deeply inter-connected relationship. Yet, a recent visit to Nepal will make Indians feel strangers in a foreign land. It will come as no surprise that most of the Nepali businessmen now prefer to speak Chinese rather than Hindi, and prefer Chinese tourists over Indian. Why such a change? Will this closeness of Nepal with China impact India-Nepal relations? What if Chinese government strongly influences Nepali government? Is Chinese government using soft power tactics to strategically link Nepal with China? These are the most haunted apprehensions of the Indian government and are not without any basis.....


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