Why in the News
India and Bhutan reviewed cooperation on trans-boundary rivers and hydropower projects during a visit by the Secretary, Department of Water Resources, Ministry of Jal Shakti, to Bhutan (February 24–27, 2026).
Key Areas of Cooperation
-
Hydropower Projects Reviewed
- Punatsangchhu-I Hydro Electric Project under construction
- Punatsangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project recently commissioned
- These projects are being implemented in partnership with India.
-
Flood Forecasting & Data Sharing
- Strengthening hydro-meteorological observation networks
- Improving real-time data sharing on trans-border rivers
- Enhancing flood forecasting mechanisms
-
Climate & Disaster Resilience
- Focus on:
- Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs)
- Extreme weather events
- Climate change related risks
-
Institutional Engagement
-
- Meetings with Bhutan’s National Center for Hydrology and Meteorology
- Review of flood monitoring stations
- Capacity building and technical exchanges
Significance
- Reinforces India–Bhutan strategic partnership in water and energy security
- Enhances downstream flood management in Assam and West Bengal
- Supports clean energy cooperation
- Strengthens climate resilience in Himalayan river basins
Prelims Pointers
- Trans-boundary rivers between India and Bhutan are part of the Brahmaputra basin.
- Hydropower is a key pillar of India–Bhutan relations.
- GLOFs are sudden releases of water from glacial lakes.
- Ministry of Jal Shakti oversees water resource cooperation.
[2016] Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?
Select the correct answer using the code given below. (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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