Citizens of which neighbouring country of India do not require a passport or visa to enter India under special bilateral arrangements?

Introduction / Context:
This question is about India's relations with neighbouring countries and the special travel arrangements that exist under treaties and bilateral agreements. Some neighbours have more liberal travel regimes than others. The question asks which country's citizens can enter India without a passport or visa, which is an important fact for general knowledge.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The country must be a neighbour of India.
• Citizens of that country do not require a passport or a visa to enter India under normal circumstances.
• Options include Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and China.
• We consider the general rule, not exceptional security situations.

Concept / Approach:
India has a special open-border arrangement with Nepal. Citizens of India and Nepal can cross the border and travel in each other's countries without needing passports or visas for normal movement. Bangladesh and Pakistan require visas and valid travel documents due to security and immigration rules. China also requires visas and standard passports.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall India's unique relationship with Nepal, including open borders and free movement of people. Step 2: Note that citizens of Nepal can live and work in India without a visa, under long-standing bilateral treaties. Step 3: Recognise that Pakistan and Bangladesh have controlled borders where passports and visas are mandatory. Step 4: Understand that China has strict visa regulations for Indian and Chinese citizens. Step 5: Conclude that Nepal is the only option that matches the description of no passport and no visa requirement.

Verification / Alternative check:
Official government sources and immigration guidelines clearly state that Indian and Nepali citizens may cross the India–Nepal border without passports or visas, although they may be required to show some form of identity document. No such arrangement exists with Pakistan, Bangladesh or China. This confirms Nepal as the correct answer.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Pakistan: Relations include specific visa regimes, and ordinary citizens cannot cross without valid passports and visas.

Bangladesh: Although India and Bangladesh are working on easing connectivity, visas and passports remain required for regular travel.

China: Travel between India and China is strictly regulated and requires passports and visas due to security and diplomatic considerations.

Common Pitfalls:
Students sometimes confuse Bangladesh with Nepal due to common land borders and shared cultural elements in eastern India. Another mistake is to think that because there are train or bus services with Pakistan, the visa regime might be relaxed. In reality, only Nepal enjoys this special open-border arrangement with India.

Final Answer:
The neighbouring country whose citizens do not need a passport or visa to enter India is Nepal.