How Indus Waters Treaty was India's Largesse Towards Pakistan For Over 60 Years

New Delhi: Over sixty years ago, the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) between India and Pakistan was established as one of the world's most generous water-sharing agreements. Under this Treaty, India, positioned upstream, allocated the majority of the waters from the six-river Indus system to downstream Pakistan. However, Pakistan's repeated attempts to leverage the Treaty to undermine India's water security have prompted a reevaluation of this generosity. Moving towards a big strategic push, India has now formally notified Pakistan of its intent to seek a review and modification of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), citing significant concerns that have arisen over the years.

India's decision to revisit the Treaty stems from significant concerns that have developed over the decades. The Indian government has cited Pakistan 's ongoing efforts to leverage the IWT for international intervention in disputes over hydropower projects, specifically the Kishenganga and Ratle projects in Jammu and Kashmir. These projects are essential for India’s energy needs but have faced numerous technical objections from Pakistan.

Growing Frustration with Pakistan 's Tactics

India’s frustrations intensified when the World Bank appointed both a neutral expert and an arbitration court to address the ongoing disputes, leading India to boycott the proceedings. Indian officials argue that such actions undermine the Treaty and have prompted calls for renegotiation to prohibit third-party interventions.

Historical Implications and Future Consequences

This reevaluation is seen as a necessary step to ensure that the benefits of the IWT are balanced with the responsibilities of both nations. While India has historically made significant concessions under the Treaty, the ongoing geopolitical tensions—exacerbated by issues such as cross-border terrorism—have strained its position. Prime Minister Narendra Modi 's previous declaration that “blood and water cannot flow together” underscores the complexities surrounding the IWT and its implications for regional stability.