EAM S. Jaishankar Boosts India-Nepal Relations in Two-Day Visit

In a diplomatic triumph, India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar concluded his two-day visit to Nepal, solidifying ties through various initiatives and agreements. The pivotal event of the visit was the 7th India-Nepal Joint Commission meeting, culminating in a landmark accord for India to import 10,000 MW of hydroelectricity from Nepal over the next decade.

1. Key Agreements

• The 7th India-Nepal Joint Commission meeting resulted in a significant pact: India will import 10,000 MW of hydroelectricity from Nepal over the next decade.

2. Reconstruction Aid

• India announced a financial package of Nepali Rs 1,000 crore (USD 75 million) for rebuilding infrastructure in areas affected by the 2015 earthquake.
• Inaugurated jointly by Jaishankar and Nepal’s N P Saud, post-quake reconstruction projects include schools, health facilities, and cultural heritage sites.

3. Transformative Ties

• Jaishankar highlighted the transformation in India-Nepal relations, emphasizing connectivity in physical, digital, and energy realms as a foundation for collaboration.
• Tribhuvan University Central Library in Kathmandu was inaugurated, symbolizing strengthened people-to-people linkages.

4. Shared Responsibilities

• EAM Jaishankar emphasized the shared responsibilities in building ties and commended India’s post-2015 earthquake efforts, including funding for 50,000 houses.

5. Treaty Review

• Both sides reviewed various aspects of bilateral relations, including the 1950 Treaty of Peace and Friendship, security matters, and boundary-related issues.

6. The ‘HIT’ Formula

• Referring to PM Modi’s 2014 visit, Jaishankar recalled the ‘HIT’ formula for India-Nepal relations: Highways, Iways (Information ways), and Transways (Connectivity).

7. Power Trade Agreement

• A long-term power trade agreement was signed, aiming to increase Nepal’s power export to India to 10,000 MW within the next 10 years. Currently, Nepal’s electricity capacity is around 2,600 MW.

Important Questions Related to Exams

1. What significant pact was reached during S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Nepal, and what does it entail for India?
2. How much financial aid did India announce for the reconstruction of areas affected by the 2015 earthquake in Nepal?
3. According to Jaishankar, what key elements have become the cornerstone of the expanding collaboration between India and Nepal?
4. Briefly explain the ‘HIT’ formula mentioned by Jaishankar, which was given by PM Modi during his 2014 visit to Nepal.

Please provide your answers in the comment section!!