Strengthening Neighbourhood Security: India–Nepal Hold 16th Bilateral Consultative Group Meeting

New Delhi. June 25, 2025

India and Nepal share a time-tested and unique relationship—one built on cultural ties, shared borders, economic interdependence, and deep defence cooperation. In continuation of this trusted partnership, the 16th meeting of the India–Nepal Bilateral Consultative Group (BCG) on Security Issues was held in Kathmandu on June 23–24, 2025.

This high-level dialogue comes at a time when regional security dynamics are rapidly evolving, and both nations are keen to maintain peace, mutual trust, and coordinated responses to emerging challenges.

What is the India–Nepal Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues?

Origin and Purpose

The BCG was established in the 1990s as a formal platform to strengthen cooperation on security and defence-related matters between India and Nepal. It covers a broad agenda that includes:

• Cross-border security

• Military-to-military cooperation

• Training and capacity building

• Disaster management and response

• Counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing

Meetings are held regularly on a rotational basis in both countries.

Highlights of the 16th Meeting – June 23–24, 2025, Kathmandu

Who Participated?

• The Indian delegation was led by a senior official from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), supported by defence and security experts.

• The Nepalese side included officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence, and security agencies.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the progress made and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening security engagement.

 Key Discussion Points

1. Enhancing Border Security and Management

Given the open border shared by India and Nepal, both sides focused heavily on improving coordination along the boundary. Key topics included:

• Prevention of cross-border crimes

• Human trafficking and smuggling control

• Intelligence-sharing mechanisms

• Surveillance and patrolling cooperation

The two delegations agreed to streamline communication between local security forces and district-level officers for faster conflict resolution and peace maintenance.

2. Military and Defence Cooperation

India and Nepal have a strong history of military collaboration. At the 16th BCG meeting, both sides:

• Reviewed the status of existing joint military exercises such as Surya Kiran.

• Discussed the modernization and support of the Nepalese Army through Indian training programs and technical aid.

• Considered expanding military exchanges and scholarships for Nepalese officers in Indian defence academies.

The continuation of honorary rank exchanges—an age-old tradition—was also appreciated by both sides.

3. Disaster Preparedness and Humanitarian Cooperation

Recognizing the geographical vulnerabilities of the Himalayan region, disaster resilience was a major part of the dialogue:

• Discussions cantered around early warning systems for floods and earthquakes.

• Both countries resolved to conduct joint drills simulating natural disaster scenarios.

• Emphasis was placed on rapid response units and relief material support between the two armies.

4. Cybersecurity and Emerging Threats

In a modern twist, the BCG also brought attention to new-age threats like cybersecurity and digital espionage. Delegates explored:

• Capacity-building in cybersecurity for Nepalese forces.

• Information exchange protocols for cyberattack prevention.

• Counter-radicalization strategies in digital spaces.

This inclusion signals a shift towards a more future-ready security relationship between India and Nepal.

Site Visits and Cultural Exchange

During the two-day event, the Indian delegation was also invited to visit prominent institutions in Kathmandu. Although official details weren’t released, such visits usually include:

• Nepal Army Headquarters or Training Academies

• Crisis Response Centres

• Interaction with local officials and youth cadets

These visits are symbolic of trust-building and people-to-people engagement.

Key Outcomes of the 16th BCG Meeting

At the conclusion of the meeting, both countries issued a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to mutual security and cooperation. Major outcomes include:

• Scheduling of future joint training and disaster drills

• Agreement on real-time intelligence-sharing frameworks

• Expansion of defence scholarships and capacity-building programs

• Formation of sub-groups for follow-up on border and cyber cooperation

This marks a comprehensive effort to institutionalize responses to both traditional and non-traditional threats.

Why This Meeting Matters in 2025

1. Strategic Context

With China’s growing presence in the region and the evolving Indo-Pacific security environment, India–Nepal cooperation is more crucial than ever. Such high-level meetings help balance geopolitical tensions through bilateral trust.

 2. Shared Values and Open Borders

India and Nepal share more than just geography—they share religion, culture, and family ties. Managing an open border of over 1,700 km without a visa regime demands unmatched coordination and trust.

3. People-Centric Security

Security is not just about arms—it’s also about humanitarian preparedness, disaster response, and technology management. The BCG proves that India and Nepal are aligning their goals for long-term peace and sustainability.

Conclusion: A Step Forward in Brotherhood

The 16th India–Nepal Bilateral Consultative Group on Security Issues reflects the maturity of the India–Nepal relationship. It’s a partnership rooted in history, driven by mutual respect, and ready to evolve with changing times.

With concrete outcomes on border coordination, defence training, and disaster readiness, both nations have taken a confident step forward toward a secure, stable, and cooperative South Asia.