Look at the past and you will understand the present, possibly even be able to predict the future. History tells us that Nepal has been under Indian influence (to put it mildly) for a long long time. Even before PN Shah invaded rest of Nepal and created the current geographic picture, various dynasties from southblock - Guptas, Mauryas, Mughals, etc. - have been making their presence felt in our pristine hills. After East India Company set up British Raj, Jung Bahadur and the rest of his Rana leaches have been wiping English butt to keep the power here in Kathmandu. Had Nehru not put Tribhuvan on his lap, Ranas would still be ruling Nepal. Had India not withdrawn its support, the early democracy lead by BP Koirala would have matured by now, instead Mahendra pulled the coup and made himself the dictator, again thanks to New Delhi's blessings. You remember the "nakabandhi" back in late 80's when India closed Nepal's border. Overnight, situation here took a drastic turn for the worse. Had New Delhi again not supported the democracy movement of 2046, Birendra perhaps would not have agreed to the constitutional monarchy. So, no wonder our leaders regularly make pilgrimage to New Delhi. It is sad that we have to be so dependent on India, but it is the fact. Until China becomes more engaged with us and we have leaders who can effectively play our northern and southern neighbors against each other to our advantage, the status quo will remain the same.