India – Bangladesh
Kartavya Desk Staff
Syllabus: International Relations
Source: IE
Context: A day after Bangladesh police arrested Hindu monk on sedition charges and a court on Tuesday denied him bail, India expressed “deep concern” and urged authorities “to ensure the safety and security of Hindus and all minorities” in the neighbouring country.
History Between India and Bangladesh:
• Pre-Partition Bond: Cultural and linguistic ties were disrupted by the Partition of 1947, leading to large-scale family separations and migration.
• 1971 Liberation War: India’s military and moral support were instrumental in Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan, marking the foundation of strong bilateral relations.
• Post-Independence Cooperation: India was the first country to recognize Bangladesh and continues to share deep people-to-people connections.
• Shared Sacrifices: Historical and cultural links have been reinforced through mutual respect for shared histories, such as the commemoration of Vijay Diwas.
Areas of Cooperation:
• Economic Partnership: Bangladesh is India’s largest trade partner in South Asia, with bilateral trade reaching $18.2 billion in 2021-22.
• Connectivity: Restoration of rail links, inland waterways like the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT), and Agartala-Akhaura rail link.
• Development Assistance: India extended $8 billion in Lines of Credit (LoCs) to Bangladesh for infrastructure development.
• Cultural Exchange: Institutions like the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC) foster shared cultural heritage.
• Defence Collaboration: Joint exercises like CORPAT and the Bangosagar naval drills enhance security ties.
Challenges:
• Water Sharing: Disputes over rivers like Teesta and Brahmaputra remain unresolved, impacting livelihoods and trust.
• Illegal Immigration: Cross-border migration creates socio-economic and political strain in bordering Indian states.
• China’s Influence: Bangladesh’s growing ties with China, including investments in infrastructure under the Belt and Road Initiative, pose strategic challenges for India.
• Terrorism and Insurgency: Cross-border movements of insurgent groups and alleged support for extremist elements affect security.
• Non-Tariff Barriers: Trade growth is hindered by lengthy customs procedures and regulatory obstacles.
Way Ahead:
• Resolve Water Disputes: Prioritize agreements on Teesta and other rivers through mutual dialogue and time-bound solutions.
• Enhance Connectivity: Develop coastal, road, and rail networks to boost economic and cultural ties.
• Energy Collaboration: Strengthen cooperation in clean energy and finalize initiatives like the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline.
• Counter China’s Influence: Provide technological, financial, and strategic support to Bangladesh to balance regional geopolitics.
• Address Refugee Issues: Collaborate on a regional framework for managing refugee crises through SAARC initiatives.
Conclusion:
India and Bangladesh’s relationship is marked by shared histories and future potential. By addressing challenges and fostering cooperation, both nations can strengthen their partnership, benefiting not just themselves but the region as a whole.
Insta Links:
• India-Bangladesh-Relations
• Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC-2018)