Why in the News
India distanced itself from former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s public event in Delhi while inviting Bangladesh’s new leader to the 18th BRICS Summit in his capacity as BIMSTEC Chair, signalling a recalibration of ties with Dhaka.
What is BIMSTEC?
- Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization established in 1997 to promote economic, technical, and security cooperation in the Bay of Bengal region.
- Members: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand
- Secretariat: Dhaka, Bangladesh.
What is the BRICS Outreach Session?
- A special session where BRICS invites leaders of regional organizations and partner countries.
- Bangladesh was invited in its capacity as the current BIMSTEC Chair.
Why is India Recalibrating Ties?
- Relations changed after Bangladesh’s political transition.
- India has resumed engagement with the new government through diplomatic outreach and restoration of visa services.
- Distancing from Sheikh Hasina’s event signals neutrality toward Bangladesh’s internal politics.
Challenges in India-Bangladesh Relations
- Anti-India sentiment in sections of Bangladeshi society.
- Sheikh Hasina’s presence in India.
- Teesta River water-sharing dispute.
- Border management, smuggling, and illegal migration.
- Security of minorities.
- Growing Chinese strategic and economic influence in Bangladesh.
[2026] Match List I (BIMSTEC Centre) with List II (Location):
A. BIMSTEC Cultural Industries Observatory
B. BIMSTEC Energy Centre
C. BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate
D. BIMSTEC Technology Transfer Facility
1. NOIDA 2. Bengaluru 3. Colombo 4. Thimphu
(a) A-3, B-2, C-1, D-4
(b) A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
(c) A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
(d) A-4, B-1, C-2, D-3