India-Nepal relations are characterized by historical, cultural, and geographical ties, as well as shared interests and occasional challenges. The relationship between the two countries is rooted in centuries of close interaction, people-to-people exchanges, and cultural affinity, shaped by geographical proximity, religious connections, and economic interdependence.

Key aspects of India-Nepal relations include:

1. Historical and Cultural Bonds: India and Nepal share deep historical and cultural ties, with a legacy of religious, linguistic, and social connections. The open border between the two countries facilitates extensive people-to-people exchanges, pilgrimage tourism, and cross-border trade, fostering a sense of kinship and mutual understanding between the two societies.

2. Geopolitical Significance: Nepal's strategic location between India and China makes it a key player in regional geopolitics and connectivity initiatives. India and Nepal collaborate on infrastructure development, connectivity projects, and cross-border trade, aiming to enhance economic integration and regional connectivity in the Himalayan region.

3. Development Assistance: India is one of Nepal's largest development partners, providing significant assistance in areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and capacity-building. Indian assistance plays a crucial role in Nepal's socio-economic development and nation-building efforts, contributing to poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, and human resource development in the country.

4. Border Management and Security Cooperation: India and Nepal collaborate on border management, security cooperation, and counterterrorism efforts to address common security challenges and maintain peace and stability along their shared border. Joint mechanisms such as the India-Nepal Joint Working Group on Border Management facilitate dialogue, coordination, and cooperation on border security issues.

5. Water Resources and Hydropower Cooperation: India and Nepal have significant cooperation in the field of water resources and hydropower development, with several bilateral projects aimed at harnessing Nepal's hydroelectric potential for mutual benefit. Cooperation in this sector has the potential to enhance energy security, promote sustainable development, and foster economic growth in both countries.

Despite the historical and cultural ties, India-Nepal relations have experienced periodic strains and challenges, including border disputes, political differences, and economic imbalances. Issues such as cross-border trade, transit rights, and political stability in Nepal have occasionally led to diplomatic tensions and bilateral frictions. However, the overall trajectory of India-Nepal relations remains positive, with both countries committed to strengthening their partnership, enhancing connectivity, and promoting mutual prosperity in the Himalayan region. Efforts to address common challenges, build trust, and deepen cooperation in key areas such as infrastructure development, trade facilitation, and people-to-people exchanges are essential for fostering a stable, vibrant, and mutually beneficial relationship between India and Nepal.

The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven member states bordering the Bay of Bengal. Established in 1997, BIMSTEC aims to promote economic cooperation, technical assistance, and regional integration among its member countries.

BIMSTEC's member states include Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, representing a diverse and dynamic region in South Asia and Southeast Asia. The organization brings together countries from both sub-regions, fostering cooperation and connectivity across the Bay of Bengal and beyond.

BIMSTEC's objectives encompass a wide range of sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, transport, energy, technology, environment, and disaster management. The organization seeks to enhance economic growth, social progress, and sustainable development through collaborative initiatives and joint projects among member states.

Key areas of cooperation within BIMSTEC include the establishment of a Free Trade Area, improvement of connectivity through infrastructure development and transport linkages, promotion of tourism and cultural exchanges, facilitation of investment and technology transfer, and coordination on issues such as climate change, maritime security, and counterterrorism.

BIMSTEC serves as a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and partnership among its member states, providing opportunities for engagement, exchange, and collaboration in pursuit of common goals and shared interests. As a bridge between South Asia and Southeast Asia, BIMSTEC plays a vital role in promoting regional peace, stability, and prosperity in the Bay of Bengal region through collective efforts and mutual cooperation among its member countries.

India's foreign policy is shaped by a combination of geographical, historical, and traditional factors that influence its strategic outlook, regional aspirations, and global engagement. Understanding India's geography, history, and traditions is essential for analyzing the drivers of its foreign policy decisions and strategic behavior. Here's an explanation of how these determinants influence India's foreign policy:

1. Geography:
   India's geographical location plays a crucial role in shaping its foreign policy priorities and strategic imperatives. Situated at the crossroads of South Asia, Central Asia, and the Indian Ocean region, India occupies a pivotal position in the global geopolitical landscape. Its vast territorial expanse, diverse topography, and strategic maritime location influence India's security calculations, economic interests, and regional engagements. Key aspects of India's geography that shape its foreign policy include:

   • Strategic Neighborhood: India shares land and maritime borders with multiple countries, including Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Proximity to these neighbors presents both opportunities and challenges for India's foreign policy, as it seeks to manage complex bilateral relationships, address border disputes, and promote regional stability.

   • Indian Ocean Region (IOR): India's extensive coastline and maritime interests in the Indian Ocean region underscore its strategic significance as a maritime power. India's "blue economy" aspirations, naval capabilities, and maritime security concerns shape its maritime diplomacy, naval cooperation, and maritime infrastructure development in the IOR, reflecting its desire to maintain maritime dominance and secure sea lanes of communication.

   • Himalayan Barrier: The Himalayan mountain range acts as a natural barrier, defining India's northern borders with China and providing strategic depth and defense advantages. India's Himalayan frontier presents security challenges, territorial disputes, and geopolitical rivalries, influencing its border management strategies, military deployments, and diplomatic engagements with neighboring countries.

2. History:
   India's historical experiences, colonial legacy, and independence struggle have a profound impact on its foreign policy outlook, strategic mindset, and national identity. Historical factors shape India's perceptions of security threats, aspirations for regional leadership, and commitment to global peace and cooperation. Key aspects of India's history that influence its foreign policy include:

   • Colonial Legacy: India's colonial experience under British rule informs its skepticism towards external interference, commitment to sovereignty, and emphasis on non-alignment and anti-imperialism. The legacy of colonial exploitation, partition, and struggle for independence shapes India's foreign policy narrative of anti-colonialism, anti-imperialism, and South-South solidarity.

   • Non-Alignment Movement (NAM): India's leadership role in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), initiated by Jawaharlal Nehru, reflects its historical commitment to neutrality, independence, and global peace. NAM's principles of non-alignment, anti-imperialism, and anti-nuclear proliferation remain influential in India's foreign policy discourse, shaping its approach to great power politics, regional conflicts, and global governance.

   • Independence Struggle: India's freedom struggle against British rule fosters a sense of nationalism, self-reliance, and unity in diversity that informs its foreign policy objectives of promoting democracy, human rights, and inclusive development. India's commitment to decolonization, self-determination, and global justice is rooted in its historical quest for freedom, equality, and social justice.

3. Tradition and Culture:
   India's rich cultural heritage, philosophical traditions, and civilizational values provide a unique lens through which it approaches international relations and diplomacy. Indian traditions of pluralism, tolerance, and non-violence shape its commitment to multiculturalism, religious diversity, and interfaith dialogue in the global arena. Key aspects of India's tradition and culture that influence its foreign policy include:

   • Civilizational Diplomacy: India's civilizational ethos, as reflected in its ancient texts, epics, and spiritual teachings, informs its diplomacy of soft power, cultural diplomacy, and people-to-people exchanges. India's tradition of "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" (the world is one family) underscores its commitment to global solidarity, universal values, and peaceful coexistence.

   • Gandhian Philosophy: Mahatma Gandhi's principles of non-violence, Satyagraha (civil disobedience), and Sarvodaya (welfare of all) inspire India's advocacy for peace, disarmament, and social justice in international affairs. Gandhi's legacy of moral leadership, ethical governance, and grassroots empowerment continues to shape India's foreign policy narrative of moral diplomacy and ethical engagement.

   • Cultural Diplomacy: India's cultural diplomacy initiatives, such as the promotion of yoga, Ayurveda, Bollywood, and Indian cuisine, serve as vehicles for projecting its soft power, enhancing its global influence, and building bridges of friendship with other countries. India's tradition of cultural exchange, artistic expression, and intellectual dialogue fosters mutual understanding, goodwill, and cooperation in the international community.

In conclusion, India's foreign policy is deeply influenced by its geographical location, historical experiences, and cultural traditions, which shape its strategic outlook, regional aspirations, and global engagement. Understanding these determinants provides valuable insights into India's foreign policy behavior, strategic choices, and diplomatic priorities in the dynamic and interconnected world of the 21st century. As India navigates the complexities of the international arena, it draws upon its geographical advantages, historical legacies, and cultural values to pursue a foreign policy that advances its national interests, promotes global peace, and fosters inclusive development.

Yes, there is both change and continuity in India's foreign policy, reflecting the evolving global landscape, shifting domestic priorities, and the emergence of new geopolitical challenges and opportunities. While certain core principles and strategic objectives have remained consistent over time, India's foreign policy has also undergone significant transformations in response to changing external dynamics and domestic imperatives. Some of the major changes in India's foreign policy in recent years include:

1. Economic Diplomacy and Globalization:
   One of the most notable changes in India's foreign policy has been the growing emphasis on economic diplomacy and integration with the global economy. India has pursued closer economic ties with major powers, emerging economies, and regional partners through initiatives such as "Act East Policy," "Look West Policy," and "Neighborhood First Policy." India's engagement with international economic institutions, trade agreements, and investment partnerships reflects its aspirations for economic growth, technological advancement, and global competitiveness in the 21st century.

2. Strategic Partnerships and Defense Cooperation:
   India has expanded its strategic partnerships and defense cooperation with key countries, including the United States, Japan, Australia, and France, to address shared security challenges and counterbalance China's growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The signing of defense agreements, joint military exercises, and technology transfers with these partners marks a significant shift in India's security posture and strategic alignment, signaling its willingness to deepen security ties beyond traditional alliances.

3. Multilateralism and Global Governance:
   India has intensified its engagement with multilateral forums and global governance institutions to advance its interests, promote reforms, and address global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and pandemics. India's active participation in forums such as the United Nations, G20, BRICS, and SCO reflects its aspirations for greater influence and responsibility in shaping international norms, rules, and institutions.

4. Balancing Act in Great Power Relations:
   India has pursued a delicate balancing act in its relations with major powers, including the United States, China, and Russia, seeking to maximize its strategic autonomy and leverage while managing competing interests and geopolitical rivalries. India's strategic partnership with the United States has deepened in recent years, marked by closer defense cooperation, diplomatic alignment, and convergence on regional and global issues. At the same time, India has sought to maintain cordial relations with China and Russia, while also hedging against potential security threats and economic vulnerabilities.

5. Neighborhood Engagement and Connectivity:
   India has placed renewed emphasis on strengthening ties with its neighboring countries and enhancing regional connectivity through initiatives such as the "Neighborhood First Policy" and the "Connect Central Asia Policy." India's efforts to promote infrastructure development, connectivity projects, and people-to-people exchanges in South Asia and beyond reflect its desire to foster regional stability, economic integration, and mutual prosperity.

6. Digital Diplomacy and Soft Power:
   India has leveraged digital diplomacy and soft power initiatives to enhance its global outreach, cultural diplomacy, and public diplomacy efforts. The launch of initiatives such as "Digital India," "Make in India," and "Brand India" has helped to showcase India's technological prowess, economic potential, and cultural heritage on the world stage, shaping perceptions and building goodwill among international audiences.

In conclusion, while there is continuity in certain core principles and strategic objectives of India's foreign policy, such as non-alignment, regional leadership, and multilateralism, there have been significant changes in recent years to adapt to evolving global dynamics and national priorities. India's enhanced focus on economic diplomacy, strategic partnerships, multilateral engagement, and regional connectivity reflects its aspirations for greater influence, prosperity, and security in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world. As India navigates the complexities of the 21st century, its foreign policy will continue to evolve in response to emerging challenges and opportunities, guided by a mix of pragmatism, idealism, and strategic foresight.

India's world views are deeply rooted in its rich history, diverse cultural heritage, and philosophical traditions that have evolved over millennia. Traditional sources of India's world views encompass a wide range of philosophical, religious, and cultural perspectives that shape its understanding of the universe, human existence, and the relationships between individuals, society, and the cosmos. Some of the key traditional sources of India's world views include:

1. Vedas and Upanishads:
   The Vedas, ancient scriptures composed between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE, are considered the oldest sacred texts of Hinduism and form the foundation of Indian philosophical thought. They contain hymns, rituals, and philosophical reflections on the nature of reality, the cosmos, and the human condition. The Upanishads, philosophical texts composed around 600 BCE to 200 BCE, explore deeper metaphysical questions about the nature of existence, the self (Atman), and the ultimate reality (Brahman). These texts emphasize concepts such as dharma (duty), karma (action), and moksha (liberation), which shape India's ethical, moral, and spiritual outlook.

2. Bhagavad Gita:
   The Bhagavad Gita, a dialogue between Lord Krishna and Prince Arjuna from the Indian epic Mahabharata, is a foundational text of Hindu philosophy and spirituality. It addresses existential dilemmas, moral conflicts, and the paths to spiritual realization and self-transformation. The Bhagavad Gita introduces concepts such as karma yoga (the path of selfless action), bhakti yoga (the path of devotion), and jnana yoga (the path of knowledge), which offer insights into India's holistic worldview and ethical principles.

3. Epics and Puranas:
   Indian epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and Puranas, mythological texts recounting the stories of gods, goddesses, and heroes, provide valuable insights into India's cultural values, moral principles, and social norms. These narratives explore themes of duty, righteousness, sacrifice, and divine justice, offering moral guidance and spiritual inspiration to individuals and communities. The epics, in particular, present idealized models of kingship (Rama in the Ramayana) and ethical dilemmas (Arjuna in the Mahabharata) that continue to influence India's societal norms and ethical codes.

4. Dharma, Karma, and Reincarnation:
   The concepts of dharma (cosmic order), karma (law of cause and effect), and reincarnation (samsara) are fundamental to Indian philosophical thought and religious beliefs. Dharma encompasses the moral and ethical duties that govern human conduct and social relations, providing a framework for righteous living and harmonious coexistence. Karma, on the other hand, dictates that actions have consequences, shaping one's present and future circumstances based on past deeds. Reincarnation, the belief in the cyclical journey of the soul through multiple lifetimes, offers a perspective on the transient nature of existence and the opportunity for spiritual evolution and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

5. Yoga and Meditation:
   India's ancient traditions of yoga and meditation offer practical techniques for spiritual realization, self-awareness, and mental well-being. Yoga, derived from the Sanskrit word "yuj" meaning union, encompasses physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation practices aimed at harmonizing body, mind, and spirit. Meditation techniques such as mindfulness (dhyana) and self-inquiry (jnana) facilitate inner exploration, self-discovery, and transcendence of the ego, leading to deeper insights into the nature of reality and the interconnectedness of all beings.

In conclusion, India's world views are deeply influenced by its traditional sources of philosophical, religious, and cultural wisdom, which emphasize the interconnectedness of all life, the pursuit of moral and spiritual excellence, and the quest for ultimate truth and liberation. These timeless teachings continue to shape India's ethical values, social norms, and spiritual aspirations, providing a rich tapestry of insights into the human condition and the mysteries of existence.