Kathmandu: Nepal Prime Minister Balendra Shah’s remarks in Parliament acknowledging instances of cross-border cultivation into Indian territory have drawn attention in New Delhi, with the development being viewed as a potentially significant moment in ongoing India-Nepal border discussions.
Speaking before Nepal’s Parliament on Sunday, Shah stated that technical assessments had identified cases where local residents were cultivating or using land that legally falls on the Indian side of the border. The comments marked an unusual public acknowledgment by a Nepali prime minister regarding border management complexities involving India.
The statement comes against the backdrop of longstanding boundary administration challenges along the 1,800-kilometre India-Nepal border, particularly in riverine sectors where changing river courses have altered the physical landscape over time.
Following the parliamentary session, Nepal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the issue relates primarily to the “Dasgaja” no-man’s land and areas governed by the Fixed Boundary Principle. According to the ministry, shifting river channels have created situations where traditional land use patterns do not always align with officially demarcated boundaries.
For India, the development is likely to be viewed as an opportunity to advance technical and diplomatic engagement on border management through existing bilateral mechanisms. Officials from both countries have repeatedly emphasized dialogue and joint verification as the preferred approach for resolving boundary-related issues.
Shah also called for the use of historical treaties, archival records, and modern surveying technologies in addressing border concerns, a position that aligns with ongoing efforts by both nations to rely on documented evidence and technical assessments in territorial discussions.
The remarks generated debate within Nepal’s Parliament, with opposition lawmakers seeking detailed information regarding the areas referenced by the Prime Minister. However, political leaders across party lines broadly reiterated the importance of resolving any outstanding issues through diplomatic channels.
The development comes as Nepal’s political leadership seeks to strengthen engagement with India on a range of issues, including trade, connectivity, energy cooperation, and border administration. A scheduled visit to New Delhi by Rastriya Swatantra Party President Rabi Lamichhane is also expected to provide an opportunity for discussions on bilateral relations.
India and Nepal share one of South Asia’s most open and interconnected borders, with millions of people crossing annually for employment, education, trade, and family ties. Analysts note that a greater focus on technical verification and administrative coordination could help both countries address local border concerns while preserving the broader strength of the bilateral relationship.
No official response from the Government of India had been issued immediately following Shah’s remarks, but observers say the statement may contribute to future discussions between the two neighbours on border management and cross-border cooperation.
