Nepal has become the third country in India's immediate neighbourhood to see a violent uprising topple its government in recent years.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned after more than 20 people died in clashes with police during anti-government demonstrations triggered by a social media ban.
A nationwide curfew is in place as the army attempts to bring the situation under control after protesters stormed parliament and set fire to the homes of several politicians.
Scenes in Kathmandu echo the turmoil witnessed in Bangladesh last year, and Sri Lanka in 2022, presenting a troubling trend for regional stability.
Delhi is closely monitoring the developments across the border, as Nepal shares a largely open border of over 1,750 km with five Indian states and has special economic ties with India.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow over the violence, noting the tragic loss of lives among the youth in Nepal.
The current instability also poses risks for the substantial Nepalese diaspora in India, which is intertwined through shared cultural and familial links.
Experts highlight the strategic importance of Nepal for India, especially given its proximity to China. The region's balance of power is precarious, and any further unrest could give opportunities for increased Chinese influence.
As calm returns to Kathmandu, the future leadership remains uncertain and India's diplomatic approach will need to be cautious to manage foreign relations under these strained circumstances. Increasing opportunities for Nepali youth and engaging positively could be key strategies for India moving forward.
