In a dramatic change that can re -define regional mobility, India officially closed the door on reviving the historic Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, announcing that the current flowing in Pakistan will now bend for domestic use. The announcement was made by Home Minister Amit Shah in an interview with the Times of India on Saturday, in which a strong message was sent amidst deteriorating bilateral relations.
From peace treaty to power play
The Indus Waters Treaty, signed in 1960 and brocade by the World Bank, was placed as a rare example of peaceful cooperation among rivals for a long time. The treaty allowed Pakistan to reach the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers – all three of the six rivers in the Indus basin have originated in India. These rivers are important for Pakistan’s agriculture, which supports about 80% of the fields.
But after a deadly terrorist attack in Kashmir, who claimed 26 civilians and blamed Pakistan-based terrorists, India suspended the treaty- need to fulfill security concerns and control its natural resources control.
Shah’s Message: No Going Back
Now, Amit Shah has made it clear: India will not return to the agreement.
Shah said, “The water flowing in Pakistan will be used to the farmers and people of India and will be used,” Shah strengthened a policy that adds natural resources to national security.
What does it mean to India
India plans to maximize its use of the Indus system, especially:
Irrigation projects in Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab
Hydropower generation in Himalayan region
Reservoir construction to promote water availability in dried areas
This is an important step in India’s strategy to ensure water self -sufficiency by responding strongly to the acts of terrorism.