28-July-2025 Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Critically examine the implications of China’s construction of a mega dam on the Brahmaputra River near the Indian border. Discuss the potential concerns for India and suggest measures to address water security and bilateral cooperation.
(GS Paper 2, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer:
Introduction
China’s recent move to construct a massive hydropower dam on the Brahmaputra River, close to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh, has raised significant strategic, environmental, and diplomatic concerns for India.
Concerns for India
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Water Security: A large dam upstream could allow China to control or alter the flow of the Brahmaputra, affecting agriculture, drinking water, and livelihoods in India’s northeastern states, especially Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
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Ecological and Regional Risks: The dam raises fears of ecological degradation, loss of biodiversity, and disaster risks in case of excess water release or dam failure. It may also aggravate the impact of annual floods and alter riverine ecosystems crucial to the region’s economy and culture.
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Geopolitical Tensions: The unilateral construction without downstream consultation threatens established water-sharing norms and can exacerbate existing border tensions between India and China.
Measures for India
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Diplomatic Engagement: India should intensify diplomatic efforts, leveraging multilateral forums and existing treaties, to ensure transparent data sharing and avert destabilizing actions.
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Building Infrastructure: Enhancing domestic water storage, flood management systems, and early warning mechanisms in the northeast can reduce vulnerability.
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Regional Cooperation: Strengthening cooperation with other lower riparian countries like Bangladesh can help build consensus and exert collective pressure for responsible upstream behavior by China.
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Research and Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of river flows, dam activities, and hydrological changes is essential for timely risk mitigation.
Conclusion
China’s Brahmaputra dam project is a wake-up call for India’s water security strategy. A balanced approach combining robust domestic preparedness and proactive international diplomacy is vital to protect national interests and promote regional stability.
