This book explores buffer states' agency beyond being highly interactive spaces for the competing strategic and security interests of larger powers. Analyzing 21 political events, the author offers a new conceptual framework for the buffer state, which emphasizes strategic utility and agency. Applying this to the case study of Nepal as a buffer state between India and China, he offers a systematic analysis of Sino-Indian interests in the wider region, and Nepal’s interactions with and reactions to them, and argues that the buffer state in contemporary international relations is characterized by intense competitive overtures from its contending neighboring states. However, the buffer state is not just a spectator but an active participant that consistently assesses and reassesses its geopolitical position in between much larger competing powers. This reading offers a new understanding of the buffer state as a highly dynamic political space wherein the levels of influence and strategies of bigger powers can be examined. Aimed at a multidisciplinary audience, this book will be of particular interest to scholars, practitioners and students of international relations, security studies, strategic studies, and Asian Studies.

This book traces the history and politics of the Greater Nepal movement. It looks at major events in modern South Asia, in and around the Eastern Himalaya region in particular – colonialism, independence and partition, the Chinese aggression in Tibet, formation of Bangladesh, and the merger of Sikkim with India, among others – which deeply affected the nature of democratic movements in Nepal. The volume also studies the role of the monarchy, the demand for Gorkhaland, and the rise of Maoist movements. Further, it sheds light on political participation encompassing Nepalese functionaries, the many political parties, intellectuals and responsible public figures, and the differential influence that these variegated groups had on the movement. Finally, it reassesses the idea of Greater Nepal and offers a critical commentary on its future. The volume will be of great interest to scholars and researchers of international relations, modern history, sociology and social anthropology, politics, South Asian studies, and area studies – especially Nepal and Himalayan studies – as well as policy makers and government think tanks.