How will India manage its water diplomacy to balance regional cooperation and strategic interests?

Water diplomacy plays a crucial role in India's regional strategy, balancing cooperative agreements with its strategic interests. Given its geographical position as an upper and lower riparian state in different river systems, India has developed multiple treaties to manage transboundary water resources with neighbouring countries. This article explores India's key water-sharing treaties and how they align with regional cooperation and strategic imperatives.

India’s Water-Sharing Treaties

Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)

• The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960, was brokered by the World Bank between India and Pakistan.
• India’s control: Ravi, Beas, Sutlej.
• Pakistan’s control: Indus, Jhelum, Chenab.
• The Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan led to the establishment of the Permanent Indus Commission, with the goal of facilitating the exchange of data and resolving disputes.
• India recently sought modification of the treaty due to Pakistan’s objections to Indian hydroelectric projects (e.g., Kishenganga, Ratle).
• Post-Uri attack (2016), India hinted at a shift in stance, stating that "blood and water cannot flow together."

India-Bangladesh Water Agreements

• The Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) was established in 1972 by India and Bangladesh.
• Ganga Water Treaty (1996) ensures fair water distribution.
• Teesta River Dispute:
• Important for Bangladesh’s agriculture.
• Opposition from West Bengal’s government stalled negotiations.
• Treaty renewal talks began in 2024, expected to be completed in 2026.

India-Nepal Water Cooperation

• Historical Agreements:
• Sarada Agreement (1920s): Early water-sharing deal.
• Koshi Agreement (1954): Facilitated flood control but revised in 1966 due to Nepal’s concerns.
• Gandak Agreement (1959, amended 1964): Allowed India to build Bhaisalotan Barrage.
• Mahakali Treaty (1996):
• Combined previous agreements.
• Includes Pancheshwar Multipurpose Project for hydroelectric power and irrigation.
• Delayed due to political issues in Nepal.

India-Bhutan Hydropower Cooperation

• Bhutan's hydropower development has greatly benefitted from India's significant contribution.
• Key Projects:
• Chukha (336 MW, 1987)
• Tala (1,020 MW, 2006)
• Punatsangchhu I & II (1,200 MW & 1,020 MW, ongoing)
• Significance:
• Hydropower exports account for 63% of Bhutan’s total exports.
• Strengthens India-Bhutan bilateral ties.

India’s Strategic Approach to Water Diplomacy

Balancing Cooperation and Security

• Regional Stability: Treaties ensure predictable water-sharing frameworks.
• Strategic Interests: India remains cautious of China’s upstream dam-building projects, particularly on the Brahmaputra River.
• Diplomatic Leverage: Water-sharing mechanisms enhance India's influence in South Asia.

Challenges and Future Outlook

• China’s Influence: Beijing’s dam projects on the Brahmaputra remain a geopolitical concern.
• Climate Change: Alters water availability, requiring adaptive agreements.
• Interstate Politics: Domestic opposition (e.g., the Teesta dispute) complicates international negotiations.

Conclusion

India’s water diplomacy is a delicate balance between fostering regional cooperation and protecting national security interests. Treaties like the IWT, Ganga Water Treaty, and Mahakali Treaty demonstrate India’s commitment to planned water-sharing mechanisms, despite periodic tensions. Moving forward, India must navigate interstate challenges, climate change risks, and China’s growing water footprint in the region to maintain water security and regional stability.