India and Nepal hold border management talks in Dehradun

India and Nepal held the 14th Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting on border management in Dehradun, India, on August 20 and 21. Led by Joint Secretaries Anand Kafle of Nepal and Pausumi Basu of India, the discussions focused on resolving long-standing border disputes and enhancing security.

A primary objective of the talks was to address boundary demarcation by reviewing historical records, including British-era maps from the Survey of India, and cross-referencing them with current ground realities. The two nations also agreed to utilize modern technology, such as CCTV cameras, drones, and advanced surveillance equipment, to monitor sensitive border locations.

Security discussions covered the prevention of illegal activities, including human and wildlife trafficking, drug smuggling, counterfeit currency, and arms trafficking. The Nepali delegation also raised concerns regarding emerging threats like cybercrime and cross-border digital fraud.

Additional topics included managing encroachment in no-man’s-land areas, the full operation of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs), facilitating the movement of citizens, and improving disaster management coordination. The 15th meeting is expected to be held in Nepal at a mutually convenient date.