India, China and the Strategic Himalayas

Sangeeta Thapliyal (Ed.)

This book analyses strategic discourse on the Himalayas from the perspective of India’s interests. Home to many communities, cultures, natural resources and political boundaries, it is the geopolitical landscape of the Himalayas between India and China that dominates other narratives and discourses. The traditional notion of Himalayas as India’s frontiers and buffer is challenged by China. Despite various mechanisms to address border resolution there are violations and transgressions from China. Why and how it is increasing its footprints in Nepal. Why are there newer territorial claims in Bhutan? This book examines India’s responses to the new emerging challenges in the Himalayas. How the statist discourse on strategic interests incorporates people’s discourse. It provides a nuanced understanding of India’s strategic undertakings, diplomatic initiatives and development framework. The strength of the book lies in providing in-depth analyses of the Himalayas from experts from the region, academics, military officials and foreign policy experts.

This book will be a valuable addition to existing knowledge on the Himalayas between India and China. Scholars and practitioners interested in International Relations, Strategic Studies, Himalayan Studies and South Asian Studies will find it useful.

Sangeeta Thapliyal (Ed.)

Prof. Sangeeta Thapliyal is Chairperson in the Centre for Inner Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Contents

List of Figures and Maps
Acknowledgements
Contributors
Introduction
Sangeeta Thapliyal

1. Breaching the Himalayan Frontiers: An Adjunct of the China Dream
Rajiv Narayanan

2. Gilgit-Baltistan and the Sino-Pak two-front Security Imbroglio for India
Nishant Bhardwaj

3. Understanding the Galwan Conflict Through the Lens of Offensive Realism
Haans J. Freddy

4. China’s Strategy in the Northeast India
P.R. Shankar

5. The “Arunachal” Factor in Sino-Indian Relations
Nani Bath

6. Sikkim where India-China Meet: Reflections on Chinese Encroachment
Ananta SwarupBijendra De Gurung

7. China Overrun: The Case of Bhutan
I.P. Khosla

8. From Guidance to Consultation: India’s Policy Towards Bhutan
Mathew Joseph C.

9. History and Perceptions: India–Nepal Relations
Sangeeta Thapliyal

10. The Stability of Instability: Chinese Engagements in Nepal and Implications for India
Nihar R. Nayak

11. China’s Upstream Activities: Water Concerns, Tensions and Cooperation
Amit Ranjan