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Abstract India and Nepal share one of the most unique bilateral relationships in South Asia, characterized by deep historical, cultural, religious, economic, and strategic connections. Since the establishment of modern diplomatic relations, both countries have maintained close interaction through the open border system, people-to-people contact, trade cooperation, and security coordination. However, the nature of India-Nepal relations has undergone significant transformation from 1980 to 2026 due to changing domestic politics, regional geopolitical shifts, globalization, and the increasing influence of external powers, particularly China, in South Asia. The contemporary geopolitical environment has created both opportunities and challenges for the bilateral partnership, making the study of India-Nepal relations highly relevant in present times. The present research paper examines the evolution of India-Nepal relations from 1980 to 2026 with special emphasis on political, economic, strategic, and regional dimensions. The study analyzes major developments such as Nepal's democratic transition, constitutional changes, border disputes, trade and transit relations, hydropower cooperation, and regional connectivity initiatives. It also evaluates the strategic implications of China's growing economic and infrastructural engagement in Nepal under initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has significantly influenced the regional balance of power and India's foreign policy approach toward Nepal. The research further highlights important bilateral issues including the Kalapani and Lipulekh border disputes, economic blockades, cross-border migration, water resource management, and security cooperation. The study explores how political instability and changing governments in Nepal have affected diplomatic trust and bilateral coordination with India. Simultaneously, the paper discusses the role of regional organizations such as SAARC and BIMSTEC in strengthening regional integration and promoting cooperation between the two neighboring countries. The study is analytical and descriptive in nature and is based mainly on secondary data collected from books, research journals, government reports, policy documents, newspapers, and official publications of India and Nepal. Historical and comparative methods have been used to understand the changing dynamics of bilateral relations over time. The findings of the study reveal that despite periodic tensions and geopolitical challenges, India and Nepal continue to share strong civilizational ties and mutual strategic interests. Economic connectivity, infrastructural development, energy cooperation, and cultural diplomacy remain key pillars of bilateral engagement. However, unresolved border disputes, political mistrust, and external geopolitical competition continue to create challenges in maintaining stable relations. The study concludes that sustainable diplomatic dialogue, mutual respect for sovereignty, balanced regional cooperation, and enhanced economic partnership are essential for strengthening India-Nepal relations in the changing geopolitical landscape of South Asia.