Lipulekh Pass: Strategic Importance and India–Nepal Territorial Dispute

Context

The centuries-old India–Tibet trade route through Lipulekh Pass has recently reopened. A 17-member Indian delegation entered Taklakot in Tibet after China cleared cross-border trade.

About Lipulekh Pass

1. Location: Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, in the Kumaon Himalayas.
2. Altitude: Approximately 5,334 metres.
3. It connects Uttarakhand with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
4. The pass lies in the India–Nepal–China border region, giving it major strategic importance.
5. It was the first Indian border post opened for trade with China in 1992.
6. Other India–China trading passes include:
   • Shipki La, Himachal Pradesh: 1994
   • Nathu La, Sikkim: 2006

Significance

1. Strategic: Its location near the India–China–Nepal border makes it important for border security and Himalayan connectivity.
2. Trade: It has historically served as a trade route between the Indian subcontinent and the Tibetan Plateau.
3. Religious: It is an important route for the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra.
4. Local economy: Traditional cross-border trade supports communities such as the Bhotiyas of Uttarakhand.
5. Connectivity: Its reopening can strengthen economic and people-to-people links in the Himalayan border region.

India–Nepal Territorial Dispute

The dispute mainly concerns the Kalapani–Lipulekh–Limpiyadhura region and the interpretation of the Kali River boundary.

• Sugauli Treaty, 1816: Following the Anglo-Nepal War, the treaty established the Kali River as a boundary between Nepal and British India.
• Core disagreement: India and Nepal differ over the source of the Kali River.
• India’s position: The Kali originates near Kalapani, placing Kalapani, Lipulekh and Limpiyadhura on the Indian side.
• Nepal’s position: Nepal identifies the river’s source farther west and consequently claims these areas.
• Thus, differing interpretations of historical treaties and maps have resulted in a continuing boundary dispute.

China’s Role

• Lipulekh is also significant because it connects India with Tibet, making the issue sensitive in India–Nepal–China relations.
• Nepal has objected to India–China arrangements concerning Lipulekh, arguing that its territorial claims should be taken into account.
• In 2015, India and China agreed to use Lipulekh for bilateral trade and the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, leading to protests from Nepal.

Way Forward

• Diplomatic dialogue: Continue India–Nepal negotiations to resolve the boundary issue peacefully.
• Evidence-based approach: Examine historical treaties, maps and other records to establish the boundary.
• Confidence building: Strengthen communication and border-management mechanisms.
• Neighbourhood sensitivity: Address Nepal’s concerns while protecting India’s legitimate strategic and territorial interests.
• Border development: Promote connectivity and livelihood opportunities for Himalayan border communities.