What is Ganga Water Treaty (1996)?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The treaty specifies the amount of water India is committed to release to Bangladesh at Farakka Barrage during the dry season (January 1 to May 31).
- 2.
The sharing formula is based on the availability of water at Farakka. If the availability is 70,000 cusecs or less, the sharing is divided equally between the two countries.
- 3.
If the availability is between 70,000 and 75,000 cusecs, Bangladesh receives 35,000 cusecs, and India receives the remaining water.
- 4.
If the availability is more than 75,000 cusecs, Bangladesh receives 40,000 cusecs, and India receives the remaining water.
Visual Insights
Evolution of the Ganga Water Treaty
Timeline showing the key events leading up to the Ganga Water Treaty of 1996 and subsequent developments.
The Ganga Water Treaty is the result of decades of negotiations between India and Bangladesh to share the waters of the Ganga River. The Farakka Barrage, built by India, has been a point of contention.
- 1975Farakka Barrage becomes operational
- 1977First 5-year agreement on water sharing
- 1996Ganga Water Treaty signed (valid for 30 years)
- 202150 years of India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations
- 2026Treaty due for renewal
Ganga Water Treaty: Key Aspects
Mind map illustrating the key aspects of the Ganga Water Treaty, including its objectives, provisions, and challenges.
Ganga Water Treaty (1996)
- ●Key Provisions
- ●Objectives
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Bangladesh: Renewal of Ganga Water Treaty Based on National Interest
International RelationsUPSC Relevance
The Ganga Water Treaty is important for the UPSC exam, especially for GS Paper 2 (International Relations). Questions can be asked about the treaty's provisions, its significance for India-Bangladesh relations, and the challenges in its implementation. It is also relevant for Essay papers on topics related to water resources, regional cooperation, and India's foreign policy.
In Prelims, factual questions about the treaty's signing year, duration, and key provisions can be asked. In Mains, analytical questions about the treaty's impact on water sharing, its role in promoting cooperation, and the need for its renewal can be asked. Recent developments related to the treaty, such as discussions about its renewal and concerns about water availability, are also important to follow.
Knowing the historical context and the specific details of the treaty is crucial for answering questions effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
61. What is the Ganga Water Treaty of 1996, and what are its primary objectives?
The Ganga Water Treaty is an agreement between India and Bangladesh signed on December 12, 1996, to share the water of the Ganga River. Its primary goal is to ensure a fair distribution of the Ganga's water between the two countries during the dry season (January 1 to May 31), promoting cooperation and preventing disputes over water resources.
Exam Tip
Remember the signing date (December 12, 1996) and the dry season period (January 1 to May 31) for prelims.
2. What are the key provisions of the Ganga Water Treaty concerning water sharing during the dry season?
The treaty outlines a specific water-sharing formula based on the availability of water at the Farakka Barrage during the dry season: * If 70,000 cusecs or less are available, the water is shared equally. * If availability is between 70,000 and 75,000 cusecs, Bangladesh receives 35,000 cusecs, and India receives the rest. * If availability exceeds 75,000 cusecs, Bangladesh receives 40,000 cusecs, and India receives the rest. * Bangladesh is guaranteed at least 80% of its share as per the formula in each 10-day period from March 1 to May 10.