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By Shanker Man Singh

The day India adopted its Constitution in 1950 and declared itself a democratic republic is celebrated with grand ceremonies every year on 26 January.

This day holds special significance in Indian history, as it commemorates the moment when independent India chose the path of democracy through its Constitution after the end of colonialism.

The Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world and took four years to prepare. It has justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as its cornerstones. The military display, cultural tableaux, and participation of international guests seen in the Republic Day parade not only highlight India’s democratic pride but also its diplomatic importance.

The relations between Nepal and India are not only geographically close but also deep in cultural, religious, and economic terms.

Top EU leaders are to be chief guests at the 77th Republic Day, and a trade deal is likely to be signed. EU leaders will attend India’s 77th Republic Day, co-chair the India–EU summit, discuss strategic ties and trade talks, and boost cooperation in key areas, it has been announced.

European Council President António Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will be the chief guests at India’s 77th Republic Day celebrations, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has announced.

According to a government statement, the two EU leaders will pay a state visit to India from January 25 to 27, 2026, at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Himalayas and the Ganges are common natural heritages of both countries. Nepal’s pilgrimage sites—Pashupatinath, Lumbini, and Janakpur—have deep religious ties with India. Open borders and cultural exchanges have strengthened people-to-people friendship.

Millions of Nepalis are employed in India, and Indian tourists visit religious and natural sites in Nepal.

But even in such close relations, misunderstandings and disputes abound. Border disputes such as Kalapani, Lipulekh, and Susta have yet to be resolved. Delays in implementing the report of the Eminent Persons Group (EPG), disagreements over the review of the 1950 treaty, and a growing trade deficit have left the relationship unbalanced.

Nepal is facing a huge trade deficit with India. Nepali products do not have easy access to the Indian market, which has weakened Nepal economically.

Without addressing these challenges, mere talk of friendship cannot make the relationship long-term. India should accept Nepal as an equal partner, while Nepal should adopt practical diplomacy rather than emotional reactions.

Cooperation in hydropower, connectivity, and infrastructure development is in the common interest of both countries. If projects like Pancheshwor, Arun III, and Upper Karnali are completed, Nepal can become energy self-sufficient. India needs to make a long-term commitment to energy purchases.

The use of Visakhapatnam port, expansion of railways, and development of road infrastructure will facilitate trade. Nepal should demand access to Dhamra port.

Nepal has introduced the Industrial Enterprises Act, the Special Economic Zones Act, and the Foreign Investment Act. These reforms have increased the chances of attracting Indian investment.

Nepal is graduating from least developed country status by 2026 and has also demanded more time. This makes investment and market access in the productive sector mandatory for sustainable development.

In the political scenario, the government formed in Nepal has raised expectations of peace, stability, and economic prosperity. Nepal should maintain balanced relations with India and China by adopting a policy of equal distance.

India is likely to support Nepal’s economic revival. Nepal has reiterated its commitment not to allow its territory to be used against its neighbors.

India keeps “Vande Mataram” at the center of Republic Day celebrations, while Nepal has made the rhododendron (Laliguras) its national flower.

In both countries, devotion to the motherland is expressed equally. While India’s tableau shows diversity, Nepal presents diversity through festivals and fairs. India has sent an international message by hosting top leaders of the European Union.

This shows India’s diplomatic importance. Nepal could also practice the same in the South Asian context.

Nepal–India relations should be viewed not only from an emotional or historical perspective but also from a practical and future-oriented one.

India should accept Nepal as an equal partner, and Nepal should adopt practical diplomacy rather than emotional reactions. Cooperation in hydropower, connectivity, and infrastructure development is in the common interest of both countries. Nepal should maintain balance by adopting a policy of equal distance.

The Republic Day celebration reminds us of the value of democracy. Nepal–India relations should also chart their future journey based on this value.

If friendship is to remain unwavering like a mountain, both countries must show the courage to melt the icebergs of disputes.

India’s Republic Day is not just a military or cultural display but a story of democracy, diversity, and national identity. What Nepal can learn from this is to increase civic participation, showcase cultural diversity through tableaux or performances, send an international message, and make democracy people-oriented.

Nepal–India relations have stood the test of time. Although there are some disputes, these problems can be resolved through diplomatic dialogue, economic partnership, and infrastructure development.

In the future, tourism, culture, trade, and energy cooperation will form the basis of shared prosperity for both countries.

Nepal’s politics have once again reached a critical juncture. After the Gen-Z movement dissolved the old parliament in September 2025, the country has been under the leadership of an interim government.

After former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned, independent judge Sushila Karki was appointed interim prime minister. This interim arrangement is preparing for the general elections to be held on March 5, 2026, which will elect a 275-member House of Representatives.

But the pre-election atmosphere is not entirely promising. The Election Commission has registered 114 parties to compete, yet protests continue on the streets.

Nepal’s political instability is not only an internal issue but also linked to the external balance of power. This election will expose not only Nepal’s democratic potential but also the strategic interests and support of powerful countries.

It is said that China, India, the United States, and the European Union are all interested in maintaining their influence in Nepal.

Domestic Political Situation

Nepal’s political instability is directly related to global power competition. The current political situation in the country is unstable and challenging.

Only if Nepal can strengthen its democratic practice and adopt an equidistance policy can it maintain balance in the world order. Managing the competition between India and China, the democratic support of the United States, and the assistance of the European Union in a balanced manner will be Nepal’s future direction.