Nepal’s First Woman PM

Syllabus- International Relations [GS Paper-2]

15/09/2025

92 2 minutes read

Context

Former Chief Justice Sushila Karki was named the first female Prime Minister of Nepal by President Ram Chandra Poudel.

Key Highlights

The President of Nepal declared new elections for March 5, 2026, and dissolved Parliament.
The prime minister, K.P. Sharma Oli, was ousted by a Gen Z-led demonstration that was fueled by corruption, mismanagement, and a contentious social media ban.
Following extensive discussions involving legal professionals, political figures, and the military, Chief Justice Sushila Karki was chosen with the support of demonstrators.

Sushila Karki, Chief Justice

She is well-known for her integrity and anti-corruption stance, and she now heads an interim Cabinet whose mission is to bring things back into order, look into the recent violence, and get ready for elections.
In a show of support for the new administration, India said it hoped for peace and a lasting relationship.

Overview of India and Nepal’s Relationship

The Indian states of Sikkim, West Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand share a border with Nepal.
The robust interpersonal connections between India and Nepal serve as an illustration of the long history of cultural and civilizational links between the two nations.
Under its ‘Neighborhood First’ policy, India gives priority to Nepal as a partner.
Collaboration on Defense and Security:
- - Nepal and India have a longstanding and deep relationship of mutual benefit in the areas of defense and security.
  - The armies of both countries have a wonderful and harmonious relationship built on mutual trust and respect.
  - India and Nepal also share the ancient custom of bestowing the Honorary title of General on the Army Chief of the other country.
  - The Gorkha Regiment has strengthened the already robust bonds between the two forces.
  - Strategically, Nepal is significant because it lies between India and China.
Developmental partnership
- - India’s development partnership with Nepal involves significant human resource collaboration, with more than 1,500 scholarships given each year to students studying a variety of fields, including medicine, engineering, agriculture, and traditional arts.
  - The Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC) program includes feasibility studies of Nepali professionals, training, consulting, and research trips.
Collaboration in the economic and commercial sectors:
- - With 33.5% of Nepal’s total FDI (USD 670 million) and 64.1% of its overall trade (USD 8.85 billion in FY 2022–23), India is Nepal’s top trade and investment partner.
  - With Indian exports amounting to USD 8.015 billion and Nepalese exports to India at USD 839.62 million, Nepal is India’s 17th biggest export market.
  - The majority of Nepal’s exports are edible oil, coffee, tea, and jute, which are 67.9% of India’s total imports from Nepal. India, in turn, sends Nepal petroleum products, iron and steel, cereals, automobiles, and equipment.
  - There are about 150 Indian businesses in Nepal that operate in the tourism, energy, services, and manufacturing industries.
Connections Between People
- - More than 8 million members of the Nepali diaspora in India, including students, laborers, and experts.
  - Religious ties: Bodh Gaya (India), Janakpur (Sita’s birthplace), and Pashupatinath Temple (Nepal).