Mishra's book on Nepal-India ties: Valuable, archival resource
Summary
Birendra Prasad Mishra’s book Crisis of Trust in Nepal-India Relations examines the two countries’ ties through history, perception and psychology, arguing that trust deficits shape diplomacy as much as treaties do. The review says the book is a valuable archival resource on Nepal-India relations, despite needing tighter organization.
Key Points
- The book frames Nepal-India relations as a crisis of trust shaped by emotion, perception, suspicion and leadership, not just treaties and strategic interests.
- It revisits major historical figures and events, including B. P. Koirala, Jawaharlal Nehru, King Tribhuvan, King Mahendra and King Birendra.
- The review highlights key issues such as the 1950 treaty, the open border, Kalapani, Madhesh, Gorkha recruitment and the 2015 blockade.
- The book is described as a valuable archival resource on Nepal-India ties, though its organization and editorial polish could be stronger.
