Topic: India and its neighborhood- relations.
3. “Considering the strategic importance of Bangladesh and as a responsible upper riparian state, India needs to take proactive steps for early conclusion of Teesta agreement”. Comment. (250 words)
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
India and Bangladesh have been engaged in a long-standing dispute over water-sharing in the Teesta. Adding to the existing tensions, Bangladesh is now discussing an almost $1 billion loan from China for a comprehensive management and restoration project on the Teesta river. Thus the question.
Key Demand of the question:
Discuss in detail the steps that Indian must take in the Teesta dispute with Bangladesh so as to conclude upon the active dispute.
Directive:
Comment– here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Start by explaining the context; Bangladesh’s discussions with China come at a time when India is particularly wary about China following the standoff in Ladakh.
Body:
Briefly discuss the geography of the Teesta River across the two countries; Teesta river is a tributary of the Brahmaputra (known as Jamuna in Bangladesh), flowing through India and Bangladesh. It originates in the Himalayas near Chunthang, Sikkim and flows to the south through West Bengal before entering Bangladesh.
Then move onto discuss the long standing conflicts between the two countries.
Explain what the need of the hour is.
Conclusion:
Conclude with steps that India must proactively take at this stage.
