Indus Water Treaty (IWT) 1960 UPSC Notes: Key Provisions & Reasons for Suspension

The Indus Water Treaty (IWT) is a major water-sharing treaty between India and Pakistan in 1960 facilitated by the World Bank. It regulates the sharing of water from the Indus River and its tributaries to ensure peaceful cooperation between the two countries over this precious resource. The treaty allocates control over the six rivers of the Indus basin—three to each country—while establishing mechanisms for dispute resolution and cooperation.

This topic is pertinent to the General Studies Paper I and General Studies Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Understanding the Indus Water Treaty is crucial for comprehending India's foreign policy, international relations, and resource management strategies.

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What is the Indus Water Treaty?

The Indus Water Treaty is an agreement between India and Pakistan that allocates the use of the waters of the Indus River and its tributaries. Signed on September 19, 1960, the treaty divides the six rivers of the Indus basin into two groups:

• Eastern Rivers: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—allocated to India.
• Western Rivers: Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab—allocated to Pakistan.

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The treaty provides Pakistan with unrestricted use of the western rivers, while India has rights to the eastern rivers. Additionally, India is permitted to use the western rivers for certain non-consumptive purposes, such as hydroelectric power generation, subject to specific guidelines.

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Background of the Indus Water Treaty 1960

The Indus Water Treaty was the result of nine years of negotiations between India and Pakistan, facilitated by the World Bank. The need for such an agreement arose due to the partition of British India in 1947, which led to disputes over the control and use of the Indus River system. The World Bank played a pivotal role in mediating discussions and drafting the treaty to ensure equitable water distribution and prevent potential conflicts over this vital resource.

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Some of the major provisions of the Indus water treaty include the following:

Water Allocation

• Eastern Rivers: India has full control over the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej rivers.
• Western Rivers: Pakistan has unrestricted use of the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers.

Non-Consumptive Uses

India is allowed to use the western rivers for certain non-consumptive purposes, including:

• Hydroelectric power generation (with specific guidelines).
• Navigation.
• Flood control.

Dispute Resolution Mechanism

The treaty establishes a Permanent Indus Commission, comprising Indus Commissioners from both countries, to address and resolve issues related to the implementation of the treaty. In case of disagreements, the treaty provides for the appointment of a Neutral Expert or the establishment of a Court of Arbitration to resolve disputes.

Future Modifications

Article XII(3) of the treaty allows for modifications to its provisions, provided both parties agree to the changes through a duly ratified treaty. This clause has been invoked by India to request a review and modification of the treaty in light of changing circumstances.

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Some of the major challenges faced by the Indus Waters Treaty are:

• The treaty has faced challenges due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. Disputes over the construction of hydroelectric projects on the western rivers have led to concerns in Pakistan about the potential impact on its water supply.
• Environmental changes, such as climate change and shifting rainfall patterns, have affected the flow of the rivers, impacting water availability and necessitating updates to the treaty's provisions.
• Cross-border terrorism has disrupted the implementation of the treaty, with incidents affecting infrastructure related to water management and raising concerns about the security of water resources.

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Projects to be Inspected Under the Indus Treaty

Under the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty, certain projects require inspection and approval by the Permanent Indus Commission to ensure compliance with the treaty's guidelines. These projects include:

• Hydroelectric Projects: Any new hydroelectric projects on the western rivers must be designed and constructed in accordance with the treaty's provisions.
• Storage Facilities: Construction of storage facilities on the western rivers requires prior approval to assess their impact on downstream flows.
• Diversion Schemes: Any schemes to divert water from the western rivers must be examined to ensure they do not adversely affect Pakistan's water rights.

Indus River and its Tributaries

The Indus River is one of the longest rivers in the world, originating from the Tibetan Plateau and flowing through China, India, and Pakistan. It is the primary source of water for Pakistan and plays a crucial role in the agriculture and economy of the region.

Tributaries of the Indus River

The Indus River is fed by several major tributaries, which are divided into eastern and western groups:

• Eastern Tributaries: Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej—allocated to India under the Indus Water Treaty. These rivers flow primarily through India before merging into the Indus River in Pakistan.
• Western Tributaries: Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus itself—allocated for Pakistan's unrestricted use. These rivers originate or flow through India-administered territories like Jammu and Kashmir before entering Pakistan.

Together, these rivers form the Indus River Basin, which supports millions of people and vast agricultural regions in both countries. The careful sharing and management of these waters are essential for regional stability.

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