Roadmap for Answer Writing Introduction Begin with an overview of the historical ties between India and Bhutan. Mention the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, updated in 2007, as the cornerstone of their bilateral relationship. Strengths of the India-Bhutan Relationship Highlight the key areas of cooperation: Trade and ...
Model Answer Transboundary river disputes have long influenced India's relations with its neighboring countries. These disputes arise from shared water resources, conflicting developmental priorities, and concerns over infrastructure projects. Below are the key impacts, illustrated with examples: 1.Read more
Model Answer
Transboundary river disputes have long influenced India’s relations with its neighboring countries. These disputes arise from shared water resources, conflicting developmental priorities, and concerns over infrastructure projects. Below are the key impacts, illustrated with examples:
1. India-China Relations
China’s construction of storage structures upstream of the Brahmaputra River has raised alarms in India over potential impacts on downstream water flows.
- 2017 Doklam Standoff: China withheld hydrological data on the Brahmaputra, despite an MoU mandating data sharing during the flood season. This highlighted China’s leverage over water resources in bilateral ties.
2. India-Pakistan Relations
Disputes over the Indus Water Treaty (1960), governing six rivers, have been a persistent issue.
- Baglihar Project (Chenab): Pakistan opposed India’s construction of this hydropower project, leading to international arbitration.
- 2023 Notice: India sought to renegotiate the treaty, citing Pakistan’s objections to projects like Kishanganga and Ratle hydropower projects.
3. India-Bangladesh Relations
India and Bangladesh share 54 rivers, but agreements exist for only one—the Ganga.
- Teesta River Dispute: Prolonged negotiations have failed to yield a treaty, despite high-level dialogues, straining bilateral ties.
4. India-Nepal Relations
Historic treaties like the Kosi (1954) and Mahakali (1996) agreements have been sources of resentment in Nepal.
- Nepal claims these treaties disproportionately benefit India and hinder Nepal’s hydropower ambitions.
Geopolitical Implications
These disputes have allowed China to exploit tensions and strengthen its ties with India’s neighbors, intensifying regional challenges.
Conclusion
Resolving transboundary water disputes is essential for fostering regional stability. This requires sustained diplomacy, equitable agreements, and sustainable management of shared resources.
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Model Answer Introduction India and Bhutan share a robust and time-tested relationship rooted in the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, updated in 2007 to reflect evolving dynamics. This partnership has been underpinned by economic cooperation, hydropower development, and cultural ties. However, emerging chRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
India and Bhutan share a robust and time-tested relationship rooted in the 1949 Treaty of Friendship, updated in 2007 to reflect evolving dynamics. This partnership has been underpinned by economic cooperation, hydropower development, and cultural ties. However, emerging challenges now pose concerns for this historically strong relationship.
Strengths of the India-Bhutan Relationship
Trade and Economic Ties
Hydropower Cooperation
Development Partnership
Educational and Cultural Cooperation
Emerging Challenges
Border Security and Territorial Negotiations with China
Economic Diversification and Ties with China
BBIN Motor Vehicle Agreement
Sustainable Development Fee (SDF)
Conclusion and Way Forward
To address these challenges, India and Bhutan must reinforce their relationship through:
India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy can guide efforts to ensure mutual growth, security, and prosperity.
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