Why in the News?

1. China has agreed in principle to resume border trade through Shipki-La in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, which was suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2. The decision was taken during the visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister to India after discussions with the External Affairs Minister.
3. Talks are also underway to allow the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Shipki-La, making it an additional pilgrimage route besides Lipulekh and Nathu La.

About Shipki-La

1. Location: Shipki-La is a mountain pass on the India-China border in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh.
2. Altitude: It lies at an elevation of about 4,720 meters (15,490 ft) above sea level in the Himalayas.
3. Connectivity: It connects Himachal Pradesh in India with Tibet (China) and is one of the three approved Indo-China trade routes.
4. Historic Trade Route: Shipki-La was part of the ancient Indo-Tibetan trade route facilitating exchange of goods like wool, salt, and grains.
5. Border Trade Point: It is one of the designated border trade points between India and China, along with Lipulekh (Uttarakhand) and Nathu La (Sikkim).
6. Rivers: The Sutlej River enters India from Tibet near Shipki-La, making it a significant geographical point.
7. Strategic Importance: It holds strategic importance for defense, trade, and connectivity between the two nations.
8. Challenges: Located in a high-altitude, snow-bound region with harsh weather and limited infrastructure, making year-round trade difficult.

Nepal

Why in the news?

1. Nepal has officially joined the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) by signing the Framework Agreement in August 2025.
2. This move aims to strengthen global cooperation for conservation of big cats, especially species present in Nepal like snow leopard, tiger, and common leopard.
3. The IBCA, launched by India in 2023, is a global initiative for the conservation of seven big cat species.

About Nepal

1. Location: Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, bordered by China (north) and India (south, east, west).
2. Capital: Kathmandu is the capital and largest city.
3. Geography: Home to Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), the world’s highest peak, located in the Himalayas.
4. Major Rivers: Koshi, Gandaki, and Karnali are important river systems.
5. Climate: Ranges from tropical in the south to alpine in the north.
6. Religion & Culture: Predominantly Hindu, with significant Buddhist population; known for heritage sites like Pashupatinath Temple and Lumbini (birthplace of Buddha).
7. Economy: Mainly agriculture-based, with growing tourism and hydropower
8. Biodiversity: Rich in flora and fauna; hosts species like snow leopard, red panda, and Bengal tiger, making it important for wildlife conservation.