Introduction
The Indo-Nepal border is a 1,850 km long international border that separates India and Nepal. The border starts from the tri-junction border with China in the north and ends in the east where India meets Bhutan and Bangladesh. The Indo-Nepal border is an open border with unrestricted movement of people and goods between the two countries.
History
The Indo-Nepal border was established in 1816 by the Treaty of Sugauli between the British East India Company and the Kingdom of Nepal. The treaty defined the boundary between British India and Nepal and ceded the territories of Sikkim and Darjeeling to the British.
Geography
The Indo-Nepal border runs through a diverse range of landscapes, including the Himalayan Mountains, the Terai plains, and the Mahabharat Range. The border divides several rivers, including the Kali, the Karnali, and the Gandaki.
Border Disputes
There have been several border disputes between India and Nepal over the years. The most recent dispute was in 2020 when Nepal claimed the Kalapani area, which is currently controlled by India. The dispute was resolved through diplomatic talks between the two countries.
Border Crossings
The Indo-Nepal border has several official and unofficial border crossings, including the Sunauli border crossing, which is the busiest crossing point. Other popular crossings include the Raxaul-Birgunj and Jogbani-Biratnagar crossings.
Trade and Commerce
The Indo-Nepal border is an important trade route for both countries. India is Nepal’s largest trading partner, and Nepal is India’s largest trading partner in South Asia. The border is used for the import and export of goods between the two countries.
Security
The Indo-Nepal border is monitored by the Border Security Force (BSF) on the Indian side and the Nepal Armed Police Force (NAPF) on the Nepalese side. The border is also used for the movement of security forces between the two countries.
Cultural Exchange
The Indo-Nepal border is not just a physical boundary but also a cultural one. The people of India and Nepal share a rich cultural heritage, and the border is a place for cultural exchange and interaction.
Tourism
The Indo-Nepal border is also a popular destination for tourists. The border region offers a diverse range of tourist attractions, including the Himalayan Mountains, wildlife sanctuaries, and historical sites.
Conclusion
The Indo-Nepal border is an important boundary that separates India and Nepal. The border has seen its fair share of disputes, but it remains an open border that allows for the free movement of people and goods between the two countries. The border is also a place for cultural exchange, trade and commerce, and tourism.