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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 18/08/2025

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 (18-08-2025).

Question:

“India–Bangladesh relations have matured over the past decade, but unresolved water-sharing issues like the Teesta river continue to challenge bilateral trust. Discuss the significance of the Teesta issue for both countries and suggest measures for a sustainable resolution.”

Introduction

India and Bangladesh share 54 transboundary rivers, making water cooperation a cornerstone of bilateral relations. While the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty was a landmark success, the Teesta water-sharing pact has remained stalled since 2011 due to federal and domestic political challenges. Its resolution is crucial for regional stability, food security, and trust-building in South Asia.

Significance of the Teesta Issue

For Bangladesh

Food Security: Teesta basin irrigates ~14% of its cropped area, especially Rangpur.

Livelihoods: Supports millions of farmers during lean seasons.

Political Sensitivity: Seen as a test of India’s sincerity in “Neighbourhood First.”

For India (including Assam and West Bengal)

Federal Dimensions: West Bengal fears reduced water for North Bengal’s agriculture.

Assam’s Hydrology: Teesta flows into the Brahmaputra, influencing flood and wetland ecosystems.

Strategic Ties: Successful agreement would strengthen India’s Act East policy via stable Bangladesh ties.

Challenges in Resolution

Challenge	Impact
West Bengal’s Opposition	State concerns over irrigation needs create Centre–State deadlock.
Seasonal Flow Variability	Climate change and glacial retreat reduce lean season flows.
Bangladesh’s Heavy Dependence	Over-reliance on Teesta due to lack of alternative water sources.
Political Cycles	Issue resurfaces during elections, delaying continuity.

Government Efforts

Joint Rivers Commission (1972–present) – institutional platform for cooperation.

Data-Sharing Mechanisms – seasonal hydrological data exchange during floods.

Neighbourhood First Policy – prioritises Bangladesh through trade, energy, and connectivity projects.

Connectivity Projects – revival of inland waterways (Protocol routes via Assam).

Way Forward

Consensus with States – Greater involvement of West Bengal in negotiations to ensure federal harmony.

Technical Solutions – Joint development of reservoirs, storage dams, and irrigation projects to optimise flow.

Integrated Basin Approach – Manage Teesta as part of the Brahmaputra basin rather than in isolation.

Real-Time Data Sharing – Enhance transparency through satellite and hydrological monitoring.

Alternative Cooperation – Expand energy trade, connectivity, and flood control to reduce political weight on Teesta alone.

Conclusion The Teesta water-sharing issue goes beyond hydrology — it is a litmus test of India–Bangladesh trust. For Assam and the Northeast, it also carries ecological and strategic implications. A balanced, basin-wide, and cooperative framework that respects Bangladesh’s needs, addresses West Bengal’s concerns, and safeguards Assam’s ecology is vital for strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring regional water security.hub in the North-East and a recognised player in the global organic value chain.

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