Border issues and security challenges of madhesh province
Date
2025-04
Authors
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Publisher
APF Command and Staff College, Sanogaucharan, Kathmandu
Abstract
Madhesh Province, Nepal, shares an open border with India, presenting unique geopolitical, economic, socio cultural and security challenges. The porous nature of this border has contributed to issues such as encroachment, cross-border occupations, and economic dependency. While the open border facilitates cultural exchange and trade, it also encourages transnational crimes and security threats. This study aims to analyse the border issues and security challenges faced by Madhesh Province, focusing on geopolitical tensions, economic vulnerabilities, socio cultural interaction and security threats. It also explores possible mitigation strategies to ensure stability and cooperation between Nepal and India. The study employs a qualitative research design, incorporating primary data collected through key informant interviews (KII), focus group discussions (FGD) and personal interviews. Secondary data analysis were also conducted to identify patterns in border encroachment, economic dependencies, and security risks. Findings indicate that geopolitical issues include border encroachment, cross-border occupations and political influences from Indian counterparts. Economic challenges restrict from revenue leakage, smuggling, and informal trade, impacting formal business operations. Security concerns include transnational crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and arms smuggling, exacerbated by political interference. Socio-cultural complexities such as cross-border marriages and legal inconsistencies in citizenship and property rights further complicate governance. Addressing these border issues requires a multi-spectrum approach, including diplomatic negotiations, enhanced border security measures, economic policy reforms and legal interventions. Improving intelligence-based security, infrastructure development, and international cooperation can help mitigate tensions and ensure sustainable peace and security along the Nepal-India border in Madhesh Province.