Senior defense experts and diplomats gathered at the Nepal-India Think Tank Forum this week to reinforce the vital role of security cooperation and youth engagement in regional resilience. Hosted by the Nepal Institute of International Cooperation and Engagement (NIICE), the forum highlighted the historical and evolving nature of the bilateral relationship.
Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh (Retd.), Director General of the United Service Institution of India, paid tribute to the historical bond between the two nations, stating that "Nepali courage and valor have been at the forefront of Indian military strength."
Addressing current recruitment shifts, Singh stated that the Agniveer scheme remains open to Nepali citizens on par with Indians. He described the program as an investment in human capital, producing disciplined youth to enrich society—drawing parallels to the pre-1970s non-pensionable "color service."
Shared threats and strategic challenges
While the open border fosters deep cultural and trade ties, experts warned of the vulnerabilities it creates. Dr. Gaurav Saini of the Council for Strategic and Defense Research identified human trafficking, narcotics, and counterfeit currency as primary transnational threats, citing recent seizures by Bihar Police.
Adding to the security discourse, Alok Bansal of the India Foundation emphasized that cross-border terrorism remains a shared burden, impacting the stability of both nations.
The forum shifted focus toward future-proofing the relationship through institutional reform, connectivity and climate and knowledge.
Speaking on the occasion, Maj. Gen. Binoj Basnyat (Retd.) warned that elections alone may not ensure stability without generational renewal and inclusive dialogue. Similarly, Anurag Acharya highlighted digital and physical infrastructure as the pillars of modern ties, suggesting sports and tech integration as new avenues for growth. Likewise, Bibek Dhoj Thapa and NIICE Director Sumitra Karki called for "India-Nepal Youth Climate Fellowships" and a mutual increase in academic "Nepal-India Studies" to bridge the gap between policy and public perception.
The consensus among speakers, including Ambassador Pankaj Saran and Professor Sangeeta Thapliyal, was clear: India should be viewed not as a post-colonial power, but as a strategic partner dedicated to the mutual prosperity of the next generation.
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