20-May-2025 Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Critically examine the strategic and legal implications of India’s move to annul the Indus Waters Treaty. How can it affect bilateral relations and water diplomacy in South Asia?
(GS Paper 2, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer:
India’s recent announcement to annul the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), a landmark 1960 water-sharing agreement brokered by the World Bank, marks a strategic and legal turning point in Indo-Pak relations. The move reflects a hardened policy stance in response to Pakistan’s continued sponsorship of cross-border terrorism, particularly following recent attacks and Operation Sindoor.
Strategic Implications:
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Hydro-diplomacy as Pressure Tool: India is leveraging river water as a non-kinetic means of coercion, linking access to natural resources with national security.
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Domestic Gains: The annulment is projected to benefit Indian farmers in Punjab, Haryana, J&K, and Rajasthan, particularly in reclaiming unutilized eastern river flows.
Legal and Institutional Concerns:
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Treaty Validity: The IWT, a binding bilateral agreement registered with the UN, contains no explicit exit clause. Unilateral withdrawal may face legal challenges.
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Global Image Risk: As India aspires for leadership in global governance, perceived treaty violations could tarnish its credibility as a responsible stakeholder.
Regional and Diplomatic Fallout:
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Escalation with Pakistan: The move may deepen hostilities and provoke retaliatory actions, including possible international arbitration.
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SAARC & BIMSTEC Impact: South Asia’s already fragile cooperative climate may weaken further, particularly in areas like climate adaptation and shared resources.
Conclusion:
India must carefully calibrate strategic assertiveness with legal prudence. A transparent and consultative approach to treaty review would uphold national interest without undermining its international standing.
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