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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 23/06/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (23-06-2025).

📝 Mains Question:

Q. Discuss the significance of India–Bangladesh river cooperation in the context of water security, regional stability, and ecological sustainability. Highlight the strategic role of Assam in such transboundary frameworks.

📘 Model Answer

Introduction

India and Bangladesh share 54 transboundary rivers, including the Teesta, Dharla, Dudhkumar, and Brahmaputra. With growing water stress, climate variability, and ecological degradation, river cooperation between the two neighbours is critical to ensure regional peace, economic development, and environmental protection. The recent revival of a technical data-sharing framework ahead of PM Sheikh Hasina’s visit signals a maturing water diplomacy.

Significance of India–Bangladesh River Cooperation

Area	Importance
Water Security	Ensures equitable flow for agriculture, drinking water, fisheries, etc.
Disaster Resilience	Enhances flood forecasting and floodplain zoning
Economic Linkages	Boosts river transport, irrigation, power generation
Ecological Health	Maintains seasonal flow needed for wetlands, fisheries, and forests
Regional Diplomacy	Counters geopolitical tensions and promotes neighbourly trust

Challenges in Bilateral River Management

Challenge	Details
⚖️ Teesta Accord Delays	Due to domestic opposition in West Bengal, the deal is stalled since 2011
📉 Data Sharing Gaps	Lack of real-time hydrological flow data leads to late flood alerts
🛠️ Unilateral Structures	Embankments, barrages alter natural flow without joint planning
⚖️ Asymmetry in Benefits	Bangladesh sees India as an upstream power with more control
🗺️ Fragmented Institutions	Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) lacks legal enforcement powers

Strategic Role of Assam in the Framework

Upper-Riparian Stakeholder: Brahmaputra and several tributaries originate or flow through Assam before entering Bangladesh
Flood-Zone Sensitivity: Assam’s flood control requires upstream and downstream coordination
Data Hub Potential: Can host real-time telemetry and flood forecasting centres
Border Security: River disputes often worsen transboundary migration and security threats
Ecological Interdependence: Beels, wetlands, and forests shared across boundaries (e.g., Kaziranga floodplains)

Way Forward

Reform Area	Recommendation
🛰️ Data Modernisation	Install automated flow meters with bilateral satellite-based monitoring
👥 Subnational Engagement	Include Assam, West Bengal, and NE states in JRC deliberations
🧑‍🔬 Science Diplomacy	Set up Joint River Research Centres with IITs, IMD, and hydrology institutes
📜 Legal Framework	Evolve a binding treaty for long-term governance (similar to Indus Waters Treaty)
🌱 Ecosystem Services Valuation	Account for wetland health, biodiversity, and sediment transport in planning

Conclusion

India–Bangladesh river cooperation must move from political negotiation to institutional partnership. With climate change increasing water volatility, Assam’s strategic and ecological role cannot be sidelined. A robust, science-based, and inclusive river diplomacy will not only safeguard shared water but also foster regional harmony, resilience, and sustainable development.

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