20th September 2024 (8 Topics)
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Indus Water Treaty: Tread cautiously
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Context
New Delhi has escalated its call for a “review and modification” of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), focusing on disputes over the Kishanganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects. These developments come amid ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan over water-sharing rights as both countries navigate climate change and energy needs.
Disputes Over Water Projects
- Contentious Projects: India's Kishanganga project on the Jhelum is fully operational, while the Ratle project on the Chenab is under construction. Both projects have faced objections from Pakistan, which claims they violate the IWT.
- International Arbitration Dynamics: The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in favor of India regarding the Kishanganga project, but Pakistan has avoided intergovernmental negotiations, retracting its request for arbitration with the World Bank after a year.
- IWT's Framework: The IWT allows India to utilize western river waters for non-consumptive uses, yet Pakistan’s opposition highlights the need for clearer guidelines under the treaty's dispute resolution mechanism.
Climate Change and Bilateral Cooperation
- Renewable Energy Focus: India emphasizes the role of renewable energy in its climate action plans, with the 850-MW Ratle project seen as pivotal for economic and employment benefits.
- Need for Cooperative Spirit: Despite the treaty’s provision for modifications, both nations must safeguard the cooperative spirit underlying the IWT, especially as climate change exacerbates water resource challenges.
- Historical Context: While Islamabad's stance has been rigid, India has also struggled to uphold the treaty’s spirit, especially post the Uri attack, where political rhetoric affected water-sharing discussions.
Practice Question
Q. Evaluate the implications of the recent developments regarding the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan. How can both nations ensure a cooperative framework in the context of climate change and water resource management?
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