Why in the News
Bangladesh has urged India to reconsider the long pending Teesta water sharing agreement following political changes in West Bengal. Bangladesh also indicated that the issue may be discussed with China during high level talks in Beijing.
About the Teesta River
- Origin: Eastern Himalayas near the Pauhunri glacier
- Flows through: Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh
- Tributary of the Brahmaputra River
Nature of the Dispute
- Both India and Bangladesh depend on Teesta waters for:
- Irrigation
- Agriculture
- Livelihoods
- Bangladesh seeks a larger share of dry season flow
2011 Proposed Agreement
- India and Bangladesh reached an in principle agreement during PM Manmohan Singh’s visit
- Agreement could not be finalised due to objections from West Bengal government
Key Issues Involved
- Water sharing during lean season
- Role of States in international river agreements
- Federal coordination between:
- Union Government
- State Government
China’s Role
- Bangladesh discussing Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project with China
- Reflects strategic dimension of regional water diplomacy
| [2017] With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements 1 The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim. 2 River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta. 3 River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 |
