Political geography

Nepal's political geography is shaped by its unique location nestled between two giants, India and China, and its dramatic variation in altitude. The country can be broadly divided into three physiographic regions:

• The Tarai is a fertile, low-lying plain in the south, bordering the Gangetic plains of India. This region is home to a large portion of Nepal's population and is crucial for agriculture.

• The Mahabharat Range is a hilly region that separates the Tarai from the high mountains. This region is home to a mix of ethnic groups and has a more temperate climate.

• The Himalayas dominate the northern part of Nepal. This region is home to eight of the world's ten tallest mountains, including Mount Everest. The Himalayas are sparsely populated and have a harsh climate.

This variation in altitude has a significant impact on Nepal's political geography. The Tarai, with its fertile land and large population, has historically been a center of political power. However, the high mountains have also served as a natural barrier, making it difficult for central governments to control the remote regions of the country.

In recent years, Nepal has undergone a process of federalization, dividing the country into seven provinces. This was an attempt to address the long-standing grievances of marginalized groups who felt excluded from the central government. The new federal structure aims to give more power to local governments and better represent the country's diversity.

Nepal's political geography is also influenced by its relationship with its neighbors. India has a long history of close ties with Nepal, and the two countries share a open border. However, there have also been tensions between the two countries, particularly over issues such as water resources and migration. China's growing influence in the region is another factor that is likely to shape Nepal's political geography in the years to come.

*generated from Gemini AI

There are seven major political parties in the federal parliament: Nepali Congress (NC), CPN (UML), CPN (Maoist-centre), CPN (Unified Socialist), People's Socialist Party, Nepal, Loktantrik Samajwadi Party, Nepal and People's Progressive Party.