1 month ago
India and Bangladesh to Reimagine Ganga Water Treaty
The Ganga Water Treaty between India and Bangladesh, which is about to end after 30 years, is being discussed for renewal.
But it's not just about renewing the old agreement.
The world has changed a lot since 1996, and the new treaty needs to consider more than just sharing water at Farakka.
There are new political realities, more rivers to consider, and the effects of climate change.
Both countries need to work together to make sure everyone gets a fair share of water and to handle risks like floods and droughts.
They also need to involve their states and people in the talks to make sure the new treaty works for everyone.
The 1996 Ganga Water Treaty between India and Bangladesh is nearing its end after 30 years.
The new treaty will consider more than just water sharing at Farakka, including political dynamics and climate change.
Bangladesh often feels it doesn't get its fair share of water during dry seasons.
India faces complex federal politics with states like West Bengal and Bihar having their own interests.
Both countries need to invest in institutional processes and Track 2 dialogues to support negotiations.
- Who
- India and Bangladesh
- What
- Renewal and reimagination of the Ganga Water Treaty
- Where
- India and Bangladesh
- When
- As the 30-year term of the 1996 treaty approaches its conclusion
- Why
- To address changing political, institutional, and ecological conditions
India's Perspective
Bangladesh's Perspective
Water Sharing
India's Perspective
India prioritizes its own needs and has built infrastructure like the Farakka barrage.
Bangladesh's Perspective
Bangladesh often expresses dissatisfaction about not receiving its due share during dry seasons.
Political Dynamics
India's Perspective
India faces complex federal politics with states like West Bengal and Bihar having their own interests.
Bangladesh's Perspective
Bangladesh navigates antagonistic sentiment towards India at home and may engage with China for leverage.
Key facts
- Treaty Year
- 1996
- Treaty Duration
- 30 years
- Water Sharing Ratio
- 50:50 pro-rata
- Key Rivers
- Ganga, Teesta
- Negotiation Challenges
- Domestic politics, climate change, regional interdependencies










