INDIA – BANGLADESH BILATERAL RELATIONS #UPSC-GS PAPER-II-MAINS #INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

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India Bangladesh relations UPSC India’s links with Bangladesh are civilizational, cultural, social, and economic. There is much that unites the two countries – a shared history and common heritage, linguistic and cultural ties, passion for music, literature, and the arts. With Bangladesh, India shares not only a common history of the struggle for freedom and liberation but also enduring feelings of both fraternal as well as familial ties. This commonality is reflected in multi-dimensional relations with Bangladesh at several levels of interaction. High-level exchanges, visits, and meetings take place regularly alongside the wide-ranging people to people interaction. India’s Missions in Bangladesh issue about half a million visas every year and thousands of Bangladeshi students study in India on a self-financing basis and are recipients of over one hundred annual GOI scholarships. Sharing of River Waters India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers. The Ganga Water Treaty was signed on December 12, 1996, for water sharing of river Ganga during the lean season (January 1-May 31). The 37th Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) meeting was held in New Delhi from March 17-20, 2010. In the last technical level meeting held in Kolkata in February 2012, both sides exchanged data at Dalia in Bangladesh and Gazaldoba in India. Bilateral Trade Bangladesh is an important trading partner for India. India’s exports to Bangladesh in FY 2019-20 stood at $9.21 billion and imports from Bangladesh in FY 2019-20 was at $ 1.04 billion. Institutional Mechanisms Some of the important institutional mechanisms that meet periodically to discuss bilateral issues include Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) and Joint Economic Commission (JEC) at Ministerial level, Foreign Office Consultations, Home, Commerce and Water Resources Secretary level talks, BSF-BDR DG-level border coordination conference, Joint Working Group on Security (JWG), Joint Boundary Working Group (JBWG), Joint Working Group on Trade (JWG), Joint Group of Customs Officials (JGC), Protocol Renewal Committee and Standing Committee to review implementation of Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, and Inter- Governmental Railway Meeting. India’s Economic Assistance to Bangladesh On the economic assistance side, India has extended a line of credit of US$1 billion to Bangladesh for a range of projects, including railway infrastructure, the supply of BG locomotives and passenger coaches, procurement of buses, and dredging projects. The Line of Credit Agreement was signed in Dhaka on August 7, 2010, between EXIM Bank of India and the Government of Bangladesh. India has stood by Bangladesh in its hour of need with aid worth over Taka 250 crore (over US $ 37 million) to help it cope with natural disasters and floods in 2007-08 including the supply of 1,000 MT of skimmed milk powder, and 40,000 MT of rice. India has completed and handed over 2,649 core shelters in the affected villages in the Bagerhat district in southern Bangladesh. copyrights@svadyayaforupsc 8500968010

Conflict Zones The main factors which have contributed to the strained relations between the two countries are – Insurgency: Insurgency is one of the bone of contention between the two countries. The question of ISI operating from Bangladesh and supporting the insurgents in the North- East was one of the major issues. In 1999, it was reported that the porous border between India and Bangladesh has been used by the insurgent groups for movement to and from their camps. In 2001, media reports highlighted the presence of a number of camps in Bangladesh operated by National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT), United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) and National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFM). There are also reports that ULFA has several lucrative income-generating projects in Bangladesh to sustain its insurgency activities in India. However, recently there have been positive developments and the security establishments of India and Bangladesh have been closely cooperating with each other to resolve the problems. Illegal Migration: The flow of migrants across the Bangladesh boundary due to unstable conditions in Bangladesh has also caused tension between the two countries. The large influx of such migrants across the boundary has posed serious socio-economic- political problems for the people of Indian states bordering Bangladesh viz, Tripura, Mizoram, Assam, Meghalaya, and West Bengal. India sought to check the problem of refugees by erecting a barbed-wire fence along the border which was greatly resented by Bangladesh. Therefore, India decided to construct a road along the 2,200 km Indo-Bangladesh Border, 150 yards from the demarcation line to check the infiltration of unauthorized persons into India. India facilitated the repatriation of Bangladeshi Chakma refugees from camps in Tripura, All of whom have returned. Water Dispute: In 1975, India completed the Farakka Barrage across the Ganga. As a lower riparian state Bangladesh was vitally concerned and the assassination of MujiburRehman in August that year during a Coup made matters worse. The dispute continued thereafter with no proper settlement. With the formation of the Awami League government in June 1996, the fresh impetus had been given to Indo-Bangladesh relations. In 1996, Indo-Bangladesh water treaty was signed on the Farakka barrage. This accord was an improvement upon the 1975 Farakka Accord. According to this treaty, India is supposed to allow at least 35,000 cusecs of water to flow into Bangladesh. But according to critics, it hardly reaches above 25,000 cusecs. Critics have also questioned the rush and secrecy that featured the settlement. Begum Khaleda, shortly after assuming office told a visiting Indian emissary that the treaty needs to be adjusted and revised, to ensure a fair and equitable share of water to Bangladesh, especially during the dry season.

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Border Disputes:Border tensions between India and Bangladesh are not new. India and Bangladesh share a land border of 4,096 km and a maritime border of 180 km. The non-demarcation of a 6.5 km land border along the Comilla — Tripura makes the border question unresolved. India’s reluctance to resolve this issue is attributed to the concerns of the people living in the lands likely to go to Bangladesh after demarcation. Sharing River Water:Water dispute is one of the major problems between the two countries. The sharing of the water on a permanent basis is a major thrust of Bangladesh. India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers and have an agreement on the sharing of waters of river Ganga during lean season (January 1-May 31). Signed on December 12, 1996, the Ganga Waters Treaty is based on principles of equity, fairness and no harm to either side and continues to work satisfactorily. The two countries have a bilateral Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) that was established in June 1972 to maintain liaison between the two countries to maximize benefits from common river systems, formulation of flood control works, formulation of proposals on advance flood warnings, flood forecasting, and cyclone warning, as also study of flood control and irrigation projects. Technical Cooperation On January 29 2012, NTPC and BPDB signed an agreement to set up a Joint Venture for the establishment of a 1320MW coal-based power plant in Bagerhat district, Khulna at an estimated cost of $1.5 billion and is expected to be commissioned by 2016. Scholarships and training programs under ITEC, TCS of Colombo Plan, ICCR, AYUSH, Commonwealth, SAARC, and IOR-ARC scholarships/ fellowship schemes are being offered to Bangladesh nationals. India offers 100 slots under ITEC and 35 slots under the Technical Cooperation Scheme of Colombo Plan every year to Bangladesh. Cultural Exchanges Given the shared history and commonality of language, cultural exchanges form an important bond of friendship between the people of two countries. Special emphasis has been laid on promotion of exchanges in the fields of music, theatre, art, painting, books, etc. A bilateral Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) 2009-2012 provides the framework for such exchanges. Recent Indo-Bangladesh Maritime Delimitation Award Recently, UN tribunal has awarded Bangladesh nearly four-fifths of an area sprawling over 25,000 sq km (9,700 sq miles) in the Bay of Bengal, ending a dispute over a sea border with India that has ruffled ties between the neighbours for more than three decades. The verdict, binding on both countries, opens the way for Bangladesh to explore for oil and gas in the Bay of Bengal, the site of important energy reserves. When It All Started? The award brings to an end an arbitration process Bangladesh kicked off in 2009 under the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea, over disputes with Myanmar and India.

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The Myanmar dispute was settled in 2012 after arbitration at the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea in Hamburg. Bangladesh finally won more than 118,813 square km of waters comprising territorial sea and an exclusive economic zone extending out to 200 nautical miles. Analysis Of Award And Prospects Of Relationships On July 7, a panel of five jurists of the Permanent Court of Arbitration delivered the long- awaited award concerning the maritime delimitation of Bangladesh and India. Bangladesh/India cements the boundary of the four maritime zones that the U.N. Convention on the Law of Sea (UNCLOS) entitles states to: the territorial sea, the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), the ‘inner’ continental shelf extending up to 200 nautical miles from the coasts of the states as well as the ‘outer’ continental shelf extending beyond 200 nautical miles from the coasts of the states. The award is undoubtedly historic but raises more questions than delivers answers. To quickly recapitulate, under the UNCLOS, the territorial sea of adjoining coasts (like those of India and Bangladesh) must be delimited using an equidistance line drawn from each coast. However, no guidelines are provided for the delimitation of the continental shelf or EEZ. The only caveat provided by treaty is that the delimitation conforms to ‘equity’. Prior delimitation awards have generated a three-step analysis for dividing the continental shelf and EEZ. The first step is the establishment of a provisional equidistance line between the states, the second, consideration of relevant circumstances for the adjustment of this line and, finally, an ex post facto correction of any disproportionality in the final result. The Bangladesh/India tribunal contributes to greater certainty in EEZ and inner continental shelf delimitation by explicitly stating that the three-step test now constitutes international law. Unfortunately, while reiterating emerging norms, the Tribunal also perpetuates their attendant disadvantages by entangling itself in the redundant rhetoric of ‘equity’. The three-step test emerged from equitable considerations in the UNCLOS. Questions have already been raised about the value of the ‘disproportionality’ stage in the three-step test as it appears to be merely a synonym for equity. It is alleged that discretion to correct for ‘disproportionality’ adds unnecessary subjectivity to a test already predicated on personal discretion. Bangladesh/India complicates this further by subjecting the ‘relevant circumstances’ to equity considerations as well. The court is overly cautious and is enlarging the scope for arbitral discretion in maritime delimitation.

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Outer Continental Shelf Rights The UNCLOS provides for the extension of the continental shelf beyond 200 nautical miles where a natural prolongation of the continental shelf exists. The UNCLOS states that all outer continental shelf claims must be submitted to the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS) that is created by the UNCLOS itself whose recommendations are “final and binding.” The Bangladesh/India tribunal acknowledges that claims forwarded by India and Bangladesh are pending before the CLCS but states that it has the authority to delimit these territories anyway. If the UNCLOS suggests that outer continental shelf rights can only arise from CLCS approval, can the Tribunal suo moto create a boundary where no right exists? It is unlikely that a Tribunal would have the necessary expertise to make this determination. Moreover, such a jurisdictional conflict might cast doubt on the finality of the award if the CLCS was to make recommendations contrary to the order. Perhaps it is these issues that caused the Nicaragua/Honduras tribunal in 2007 to steer clear of outer continental shelf delimitation. In the words of that tribunal: “Any claim of continental shelf beyond 200 miles must be in accordance with Article 76 of UNCLOS and reviewed by the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf established thereunder”. The Tribunal extends the three-step test discussed above to the delimitation of the outer continental shelf as well. In doing so, as a lesson for future arbitrations, the Tribunal makes efforts to first, prevent “excessive negative consequences” and second, distribute maritime entitlements in a “reasonable and mutually balanced” fashion. The difference between these considerations, that were specifically pointed out by the Tribunal, and concerns of ‘equity’ that are constantly reiterated remain obscure. However, Bangladesh/India hereby obliterates any vacuum in outer continental shelf delimitation by laying out a recommended methodology for its treatment.

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Also, the Bangladesh/India award creates a “grey area”. This area is where India’s 200 nautical mile EEZ and inner continental shelf overlaps with the outer continental shelf of Bangladesh, resulting in dual claims over a single zone. While India has claims over the subsoil as well as the water column above it, Bangladesh’s claim is limited to the former. The Tribunal acknowledges the existence of overlapping obligations. Remarking that this is not unknown in the realm of maritime delimitation, the Tribunal hopes for “the creation of a cooperative arrangement,” confident that this will “ensure that each is able to exercise its rights and perform duties within this area.” In determining Bangladesh’s maritime entitlements, the Tribunal settled on a series of reference spots on land called ‘basepoints’ from which the four maritime zones would be measured. Bangladesh’s early claim was that its constantly changing coastline militates against the use of standard methods for its treatment. The Tribunal’s response to Bangladesh is a reiteration of the established position in international law, that the future of a coastline is irrelevant.

The Future It is widely reported that the final award is a victory for Bangladesh and less so for India. However, the Indian government has stated that it will accept the award as binding. What the ‘grey zone’ portends makes for interesting speculation. Could this be a gateway to greater cooperation in South Asia, which fits in neatly with recent efforts to strengthen the role of SAARC or will ‘grey zone’ negotiations revive tensions? Bangladesh/India is a crucial landmark in the determination of the geographic and political contours of South Asia but it is only a beginning to the resolution of a long-standing problem.

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INDIA BANGLADESH RELATIONS ▪ Areas of Cooperation between India Bangladesh ▪ Irritants in India Bangladesh Relation ships ▪ Current Developments in India Bangladesh Relations

India shares historical and civilizational ties with Bangladesh. India Bangladesh relations have remained friendly ever since the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. India attaches high diplomatic importance to Bangladesh which can be deduced from the regular bilateral visits of leaders of both the countries. Areas of Cooperation: 1. Bangladesh is one of the largest trading partner of India. Indian companies like Airtel, Marico have invested in Bangladesh economy 2. Both the countries cooperate for conserving the entire Sundarbans ecosystem 3. Both the countries have 54 rivers in common and there is a treaty in place for sharing of Ganges river water 4. India has recently signed a Land Boundary Agreement for exchange of enclaves. (Enclaves refers to territories inside India that actually belongs to Bangladesh and vice versa) 5. Both the countries have inter grid electricity connectivity and Bangladesh imports power from India. 6. India has extended soft credit (loans with less interest rates) to Bangladesh for investments in several Infrastructure projects 7. A Bilateral Cultural Exchange Program (CEP) promotes cultural exchanges in Arts, Music etc., 8. Both the countries face the risk of Terrorism and has extended mutual help to combat it 9. Both the countries are members of SAARC, BIMSTEC and IOR-ARC Note: ▪ SAARC stands for South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation ▪ BIMSTEC stands for Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multispectral Technical and Economic Cooperation ▪ IOR-ARC stands for Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation Contentions: 1. Teesta river water sharing agreement has not been signed due to opposition from West Bengal. (River is a State subject is notable in this context) 2. India shares a porous border with Bangladesh and as a result illegal immigration from Bangladesh to Indian territories like West Bengal and North Eastern states have become a source of conflicts in these areas 3. Indian visa for Bangladeshi travellers is not easy to obtain 4. Bangladesh recently suffers from political and social crisis due to communal violence and increase in terrorist activities Way Forward: 1. Concluding the Teesta river water agreement by building consensus with West Bengal Government 2. Steps to improve border relations by improving the border infrastructure to reduce illegal migration

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3. Establishing more border haats for improving the trade among the locals residing along the borders of both the countries 4. Increased cooperation in information sharing with respect to terror activities in both the countries 5. Looking beyond bilateral relations, there is a need for improving trilateral relations between India, Bangladesh and Myanmar. For Example: a trilateral gas pipeline between these countries can improve energy security 6. BCIM (Bangladesh China India Myanmar Corridor) aims at improving connectivity through road, rail, air and water. If developed it has the potential to become a game changer in South Asian trade and economy 7. India need to revive and increase investments in the BBIN (Bangladesh Bhutan India Nepal Corridor) that can be competitive to Belt and Road Initiative of China 8. Extending the Visa on arrival to Bangladesh can improve people to people contact Source: Ministry of External Affairs, thediplomat.com

INDIA-BANGLADESH-CURRENT AFFAIR Recently, India and Bangladesh signed seven agreements and also inaugurated three projects to deepen their partnership. Key Highlights

▪ Seven Agreements include: o The use of the Chattogram and Mongla ports in Bangladesh for movement of goods to and from India, particularly from Northeastern India. o Use of Bangladesh’s Feniriver for drinking water supply in Tripura. • However, no progress was reported on the long pending Teesta water sharing agreement. o Exchange of data and information to prepare a framework of interim sharing agreements for six rivers — Manu, Muhuri, Khowai and Gomati rivers of Tripura and Dharla river of Bangladesh and Dudhkumar river of West Bengal. o Daudkanti (Bangladesh)-Sonamura (Tripura) inland water trade route to be included under Protocol of the Inland Water Transit and Trade.

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o Consensus on lifting restrictions on entry and exit from land ports in India for Bangladeshi citizens travelling on valid documents. o Implementation of the Lines of Credit (LoCs) committed by India to Bangladesh. ▪ Three bilateral development partnership projects include: o Import of bulk Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Bangladesh o Inauguration of Vivekananda Bhaban (students hostel) at Ramakrishna Mission, Dhaka. o Inauguration of Bangladesh-India Professional Skill Development Institute (BIPSDI) at the Institution of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh (IDEB), Khulna, Bangladesh. ▪ Both sides noted the progress made in finalization of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Establishment of Coastal Surveillance Radar System in Bangladesh. o India has provided such systems to Mauritius, Seychelles, Maldives and planning one in Myanmar. o The coastal surveillance system will pave way for Indo-Bangladesh White Shipping Agreement in future. This will be useful amid growing terror threats via seas and growing presence of China in the Bay of Bengal region. ▪ Both Leaders agreed to early operationalization of the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India- Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement for movement of goods and passengers between the member countries who are willing and ready; or to work towards a bilateral India-Bangladesh Motor Vehicles Agreement, as appropriate. ▪ The leaders directed their officials to expedite establishment of twelve Border Haats which have been agreed to by both countries. ▪ A feasibility study for the Ganga-Padma barrage project to be conducted as part of an upgraded version of the 1996 Ganga Water Sharing treaty. ▪ The Bangladesh Prime Minister raised concerns over roll out of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, an exercise carried to identify genuine Indian citizens living in Assam and weed out illegal Bangladeshis. ▪ The Bangladesh Prime Minister requested the Indian counterpart to use his “good relations” with the Myanmar government to facilitate the return of all the refugees (Rohingyas), while appreciating the aid India has given to refugees in Bangladesh as well as 250 homes built for them in Myanmar.

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Some Facts about the Relationship ▪ India was one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh and establish diplomatic relations immediately after its independence in December 1971. ▪ Defence Cooperation: India and Bangladesh share the historical legacy of cooperation and support during the Liberation War of 1971.Various Joint exercises of Army (Exercise Sampriti) and Navy (Exercise Milan) take place between the two countries. ▪ Border Management: India and Bangladesh share 4096.7 km. of border, which is the longest land boundary that India shares with any of its neighbours. The India- Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) came into force following the exchange of instruments of ratification in June 2015. ▪ Cooperation over Rivers: India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers. A bilateral Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) is working since June 1972 to maintain liaison between the two countries to maximize benefits from common river systems. ▪ Economic Relations: Bangladesh is India’s biggest trade partner in South Asia. India’s exports to Bangladesh for financial year 2018-19 (April-March) stood at US $ 9.21 bn and imports from Bangladesh for the same period stood at US $ 1.22 bn. ▪ Cooperation in Power Sector: This has become one of the hallmarks of India- Bangladesh relations. Bangladesh is currently importing 1160 MW of power from India. Source: TH

INDIA-BANGLADESH RELATIONS Issue Context Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s four-day official visit to India will be underscored by serious concerns which will challenge Delhi-Dhaka ties. Background • India was the first country to recognize Bangladesh as a separate and independent state and established diplomatic relations with the country immediately after its independence in December 1971.

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• The relationship between India and Bangladesh is anchored in history, culture, language and shared values of secularism, democracy, and countless other commonalities between the two countries. • It is based on sovereignty, equality, trust, understanding and win-win partnership that goes far beyond a strategic partnership. • In the last couple of years, the relationship has been further strengthened including through cooperation in new and high-technology areas. Bilateral institutional mechanisms • Security & Border Management: India and Bangladesh share 4096.7 km. of border, which is the longest land boundary that India shares with any of its neighbours. The India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) came into force following the exchange of instruments of ratification. A number of agreements related to security cooperation have been signed between both the countries. The Coordinated Border Management Plan (CBMP) signed aims to synergize the efforts of both the Border Guarding Forces for checking cross border illegal activities and crimes as well as for maintenance of peace and tranquility along the India-Bangladesh border. • Sharing of River Waters: India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers. A bilateral Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) is working since June 1972 to maintain liaison between the two countries to maximize benefits from common river systems. The Ganga Waters Treaty signed in 1996 for sharing of waters of river Ganga during lean season is working satisfactorily. Regular meetings of the Joint Committee on Sharing of Ganga Waters are held to take stock of the implementation of the provisions of the treaty. • Bilateral Trade and Investment: The first Trade Agreement between India and Bangladesh was signed in 1972. Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh has grown steadily over the last decade. In the five years, total trade between the two countries has grown by more than 17%. India has provided duty free quota free access to Bangladesh on all tariff lines except tobacco and alcohol under South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) since 2011. Four Border Haats, two each in Tripura and Meghalaya, have been established for the benefit of bordering communities. Additional Border Haats on the India-Bangladesh border are under consideration. • Power and Energy Sector Cooperation: Cooperation in power sector has become one of the hallmarks of India Bangladesh relations. Bangladesh is currently importing about 660 MW of power from India. The 1320 MW coal-fired Maitree thermal power plant, a 50:50 JV between National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) of India and Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), is being developed at Rampal. Many Indian public sector units such as Indian Oil Corporation, Numaligarh Refinery Limited, Petronet LNG Ltd are working with their Bangladeshi counterparts in the oil and gas sector of Bangladesh.

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• Training and Capacity-Building: A number of training courses are being conducted for interested Bangladesh officials / nationals including personnel of administration, police, judiciary, fire-fighters, narcotic officials, nuclear scientists, teachers etc. Bangladesh is also an important ITEC partner country, and around 800 participants from Bangladesh avail of training courses under the ITEC programme annually. • Cultural Exchanges: The Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC), High Commission of India, is a Cultural Centre of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations of India in Bangladesh. The IGCC also holds regular training courses in Yoga, Hindi, Hindustani Classical Music, Manipuri Dance, Kathak and Painting. The courses are very popular with the Bangladeshi students. IGCC Hindi teacher also teaches Hindi at Institute of Modern Languages in University. • Indian community in Bangladesh: About 10,000 strong Indian community is estimated to be living in Bangladesh. Indians in Bangladesh are well respected for their hard work and managerial skills and as a community are doing very well socially and economically. Most of the Indians are Page 7 of 7 engaged in Ready Made Garment (RMG) sector or as top professionals in MNCs. Recent Developments • One of the projects jointly inaugurated by India and Bangladesh allows India to buy liquefied petroleum gas from Bangladesh for consumption in India’s north-eastern state of Tripura. • The second is the inauguration of a skill development centre that will provide basic as well as advanced training some 200-300 Bangladeshi youth on an annual basis for employment in the small and medium scale industry sectors. • Terms for the use of the Chattogram and Mongla ports in Bangladesh for movement of goods to and from India. • Pact signed for India to draw 1.82 cusecs (cubic seconds) of water from Bangladesh’s Feni river for use by India in Tripura state. How Bangladesh Is Benefiting From the China-India Rivalry • Bangladesh’s pivotal geographical location on the contested Indian Ocean, it is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and, with 160 million people, the eighth most populous country in the world. The size of the population, which signifies the size of the market, helps overshadow the small territorial size of this country. • Bangladesh has turned its neighbours’ rivalry into billions of dollars in investment and military equipment. • China’s economic engagement with South Asian countries with the exception of long- time partner Pakistan only began to ramp up in the last two decades. In this short period of time, China has emerged as a top trade partner for Bangladesh.

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• In 2015, China became Bangladesh’s top trading partner, knocking India out of the position it had held for 40 years. Imports from China represent 34 percent of Bangladesh’s total. • As a member of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Bangladesh has seen an influx of Chinese investment in recent times. • China has become Bangladesh’s top source for arms imports; and Dhaka likewise is China’s second-largest arms export destination in the world, behind Pakistan. • Beijing has provided Dhaka with five maritime patrol vessels, two submarines, 16 fighter jets, and 44 tanks, as well as anti-ship and surface-to-air missiles. • Beijing’s support of Bangladesh was evident in the 27 agreements for investments and loans signed by the two countries worth some $24 billion • As a rapidly developing economy Bangladesh is in dire need of investment, while China and India both see investment in Bangladesh as a way to extend their influence. Bangladesh is seizing the opportunity and using both China and India to fill its FDI deficit. Conclusion One way of getting the most out of India-China competition is to remain elusive, without showing a preference between the two giants. Maintaining good working relations with both India and China is crucial for an economically and infrastructurally weak Bangladesh.

CURRENT AFFAIRS:

VIRTUAL SUMMIT BETWEEN INDIA AND BANGLADESH • The virtual summit was conducted recently between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladesh counterpart Sheikh Hasina. • There was a discussion on issues ranging from the violent border incidents to the COVID-19 fight, demonstrates their desire to reboot India-Bangladesh ties that have faced challenges in recent months. • PM Modi called Bangladesh a “major pillar” in India’s neighbourhood first policy, while Ms. Hasina invited him to visit Bangladesh in March for the celebrations of the 50th anniversary of its independence. • It is a key opportunity for India, which had played a major role in Bangladesh’s liberation in 1971, to revive the relations and address the issues adversely affecting the partnership. o ‘Blue Economy’ programme’ – • Both countries are looking at strengthening economic cooperation through joint investments and cooperation under the ‘Blue Economy’ programme. • The programme entails synergized efforts of littoral states in the exploration of hydrocarbons, marine resources, deep-sea fishing, preservation of marine ecology and disaster management.

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• The industry in India needs to look for opportunities for collaboration in defence, such as in military hardware, space technology, technical assistance, exchange of experience, and development of sea infrastructure. INDIA’S ACT EAST POLICY – • Connectivity offers a game-changing opportunity for India and Bangladesh. This is pivotal to India’s connectivity with its north-eastern region and with countries of ASEAN. • This is particularly important in the context of both the Make in India initiative as well as India’s Act East Policy. • The two countries also see themselves converging around a lot of commonalities, not just as neighbours battling the scourge of terrorism, but as leading economic partners. • In terms of diplomacy in the South Asian region, both countries have had identical views. • From how organizations such as the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) should be going forward in promoting cooperation among its member nations to economic growth. • Challenges in India-Bangladesh relations (1) VIOLENT BORDER INCIDENTS – • Despite the friendship remaining solid, the border has been sensitive. • At least 25 Bangladeshis were killed in the first six months of this year along the border by Indian forces, according to a rights watchdog. (2) SHARING OF RIVER WATERS – • The Teesta water dispute between West Bengal and Bangladesh remains unresolved. (3) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the proposed National Register of Citizens, which Ms Hasina called “unnecessary”, have created a negative impression about India. (4) CHINA’S ECONOMIC FOOTPRINT IS GROWING – • China is making deep inroads into Bangladesh by ramping up infrastructure investments and expanding economic cooperation. • Bangladesh is overwhelmingly dependent on China for military hardware. • Since 2010, India approved three Lines of Credit to Bangladesh of $7.362 billion to finance development projects. But, just $442 million have been disbursed until December 2018. • Way Forward • It is imperative for India to bolster ties with this all-weather friend, and there may not be a better time to do so than when Bangladesh is to celebrate the golden jubilee of its independence. • India should support Bangladesh’s fight against radical elements. India should also not allow the ideological inclinations of the ruling party to spoil the historic relationship between the two countries. • New Delhi should take a broader view of the changing scenario and growing competition in South Asia, and reach out to Dhaka with an open mind. • There is much room for course correction in Delhi and to shift the focus from legacy issues to future possibilities.

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• Ours and Bangladeshi PM has jointly inaugurated a railway link between Haldibari in India and Chilahati in Bangladesh. Examine the opportunities and challenges in the adoption PPP model by the Indian Railways. HALDIBARI – CHILAHATI RAIL LINK • This rail link being made functional is the 5th rail link between India and Bangladesh. • It was operational till 1965. This was part of the Broad Gauge main route from Kolkata to Siliguri during partition. • Trains travelling to Assam and North Bengal continued to travel through the then East Pakistan territory even after partition. • For example, a train from Sealdah to Siliguri used to enter East Pakistan territory from Darshana and exit using the Haldibari – Chilahati link. • However, the war of 1965 effectively cut off all the railway links between India and the then East Pakistan. • So on the Eastern Sector of India partition of the railways thus happened in 1965. So the importance of the reopening of this rail link can be well imagined. • A British-era legacy • The railway network of India and Bangladesh are mostly inherited from British Era Indian Railways. • After partition in 1947, 7 rail links were operational between India and the then East Pakistan (up to 1965). Presently, there are 4 operational rail links between India and Bangladesh. • They are, Petrapole (India) – Benapole (Bangladesh), Gede (India) – Darshana (Bangladesh), Singhabad (India)-Rohanpur (Bangladesh), Radhikapur (India)–Birol (Bangladesh). Benefits offered by the rail • The rail link will be beneficial for transit into Bangladesh from Assam and West Bengal. • It will enhance rail network access to the main ports, dry ports, and land borders to support the growth in regional trade and to encourage economic and social development of the region. • Common people and businessman of both countries will be able to reap the benefit of both goods and passenger traffic, once passenger trains are planned in this route. • With this new link coming into operation, tourists from Bangladesh will be able to visit places like Darjeeling, Sikkim, Dooars apart from countries like Nepal, Bhutan etc easily. • Economic activities of these South Asian countries will also be benefitted from this new rail link. BANGLADESH IS EXPECTED TO CROSS INDIA IN TERMS PER CAPITA INCOME. THIS SPEAKS VOLUMES ABOUT THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF BANGLADESH WHEN CONTRASTED WITH PAKISTAN. AT THE SAME TIME, IT HAS SEVERAL IMPLICATIONS FOR THE REGION. THE ELABORATES ON SUCH IMPLICATIONS.

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WHAT OTHER COUNTRIES CAN LEARN FROM BANGLADESH • The International Monetary Fund’s latest World Economic Outlook published recently predicts that Bangladesh’s per capita GDP will overtake that of India this year. • The projected difference is rather small — $1,888 to $1,877 — and unlikely to last beyond this year. • International development institutions are convinced that the rest of the subcontinent and developing countries around the world can learn much from Dhaka’s experience — the so-called “Bangladesh model”. 5 Implications for the region 1) Rising global interest in the subcontinent • Rapid and sustained economic growth in Bangladesh has begun to alter the world’s perception of the subcontinent. • India and Pakistan dominated the region and other countries were considered small. • But Bangladesh was far from being small, demographically it’s the eighth-largest nation in the world. • The economic rise of Bangladesh is changing some of that. 2) Changing economic weights of Bangladesh and Pakistan • This year, Bangladesh’s GDP is expected to reach about $320 billion. • The IMF did not have the 2020 numbers from Pakistan to report but in 2019, Pakistan’s economy was at $275 billion. • The IMF suggests that Pakistan’s economy will contract further this year. • Bangladesh has controlled its population growth and Pakistan has not. • Dhaka has a grip over its inflation and Islamabad does not. • There is no question that Pakistan’s negative geopolitical weight in the world will endure. • But Bangladesh’s growing economic muscle will help Dhaka steadily accumulate geopolitical salience in the years ahead. 3) Accelerate regional integration • Bangladesh’s economic growth can accelerate regional integration in the eastern subcontinent. • The region’s prospects for a collective economic advance are rather dim. • Due to Pakistan’s opposition to economic cooperation with India and its support for cross-border terror, the main regional forum for the subcontinent, the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), is dormant. • Instead of merely praying for the revival of Saarc, Delhi could usefully focus on the BBIN. • BBIN is sub-regional forum among Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal, activated in the middle of last decade — has not advanced fast enough. • It is time for Delhi and Dhaka to take a fresh look at the forum and find ways to widen the scope and pace of BBIN activity. • Meanwhile, there is growing interest in Bhutan and Nepal for economic integration with Bangladesh. 4) Increasing importance of Bangladesh in geopolitics of Indo-Pacific • The economic success of Bangladesh is drawing attention from a range of countries in East Asia, including China, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. copyrights@svadyayaforupsc 8500968010

• The US, which traditionally focused on India and Pakistan, has woken up to the possibilities in Bangladesh. • Bangladesh does not want to get into the fight between Beijing and Washington, but the great power wooing of Dhaka is bound to intensify in the new geopolitics of the Indo- Pacific. 5) Development of India’s eastern and north-eastern states could accelerate • Bangladesh’s economy is now one-and-a-half times as large as that of West Bengal; better integration between the two would provide a huge boost for eastern India. • Also, connectivity between India’s landlocked Northeast and Bangladesh would provide a boost to the development of north-eastern states. • Delhi and Dhaka are eager to promote greater cooperation, but there has been little political enthusiasm in Kolkata. • In Assam, the issue of migration continues to impose major political constraints. Way forward • Parliamentary approval of the boundary settlement in 2015, despite the opposition, was a step in the right direction from India. • So was the acceptance of the 2014 international arbitration award on the maritime boundary dispute between India and Bangladesh. • But the positive dynamic surrounding the bilateral relationship acquired a negative tone in the second amidst the poisonous rhetoric in India around the Citizenship Amendment Act. • There is much room for course correction in Delhi and to shift the focus from legacy issues to future possibilities. Conclusion Both the countries need to jointly develop and pursue with Dhaka an ambitious framework for shared prosperity. CHINA TWIST IN TEESTA CHALLENGE Teesta Project • The project is aimed at managing the river basin efficiently, controlling floods, and tackling the water crisis in summers. • India and Bangladesh have been engaged in a long-standing dispute over water-sharing in the Teesta. How has the Teesta dispute progressed? • The two countries were on the verge of signing a water-sharing pact in September 2011, when PM Manmohan Singh was going to visit Bangladesh. • But, West Bengal CM objected to it, and the deal was scuttled. • After the regime change in 2014, the government hoped that it could reach a “fair solution” on the Teesta through cooperation between central and state governments. • Five years later, the Teesta issue remains unresolved. Trends in India’s relationship with Bangladesh • New Delhi has had a robust relationship with Dhaka, carefully cultivated since 2008, especially with the Sheikh Hasina government at the helm.

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• Security: India has benefited from its security ties with Bangladesh, whose crackdown against anti-India outfits has helped the Indian government maintain peace in the eastern and Northeast states. • Trade: Bangladesh has benefited from its economic and development partnership. Bangladesh is India’s biggest trade partner in South Asia. • Bilateral trade has grown steadily over the last decade: India’s exports to Bangladesh in 2018-19 stood at $9.21 billion, and imports from Bangladesh at $1.04 billion. • Visas:India also grants 15 to 20 lakh visas every year to Bangladesh nationals for medical treatment, tourism, work, and just entertainment. Recent irritants in ties • There have been recent irritants in the relationship. • These include the proposed countrywide National Register of Citizens (NRC) and the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) passed in December last year. • Bangladesh had insisted that while the CAA and the proposed nationwide NRC were “internal matters” of India, the CAA move were “not necessary”. Chinese affinity with Bangladesh • China is the biggest trading partner of Bangladesh and is the foremost source of imports. • In 2019, the trade between the two countries was $18 billion and the imports from China commanded the lion’s share. The trade is heavily in favour of China. • Recently, China declared zero duty on 97% of imports from Bangladesh. The concession flowed from China’s duty-free, quota-free programme for the Least Developed Countries. • This move has been widely welcomed in Bangladesh, with the expectation that Bangladesh exports to China will increase. • China has promised around $30 billion worth of financial assistance to Bangladesh. • Additionally, Bangladesh’s strong defence ties with China make the situation complicated. China is the biggest arms supplier to Bangladesh and it has been a legacy issue — after its liberation. • Recently, Bangladesh purchased two Ming class submarines from China. India’s engagement post CAA • Over the last five months, India and Bangladesh have cooperated on pandemic-related moves. • Hasina supported Modi’s call for a regional emergency fund for fighting Covid-19 and declared a contribution of $1.5 million in March 2020. India has also provided medical aid to Bangladesh. • The two countries have also cooperated in railways, with India giving 10 locomotives to Bangladesh. • The first trial run for trans-shipment of Indian cargo through Bangladesh to Northeast states under a pact on the use of Chittagong and Mongla ports took place in July. • Bangladesh gave its readiness to collaborate in the development of a Covid-19 vaccine, including its trial, and looks forward to early, affordable availability of the vaccine when ready.

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Among other issues • The two sides agreed that Implementation of projects should be done in a timely manner and that greater attention is required to development projects in Bangladesh under the Indian Lines of Credit. • Bangladesh sought the return of the TablighiJamaat members impacted by the lockdown in India. • Bangladesh requested for the urgent reopening of visa issuance from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, particularly since many Bangladeshi patients need to visit India. • India was also requested to reopen travel through Benapole-Petrapole land port which has been halted by the West Bengal government in the wake of the pandemic. Way forward • While the Teesta project is important and urgent from India’s point of view, it will be difficult to address it before the West Bengal elections due next year. • What Delhi can do is to address other issues of concern, which too are challenging. • Now, the test will be if India can implement all its assurances in a time-bound manner. • Or else, the latent anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, which has been revived after India’s CAA -NRC push can permanently damage the historic ties.

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[PIB] NEW PORTS AND ROUTES ADDED UNDER THE PROTOCOL ON INLAND WATER TRANSIT BETWEEN INDIA AND BANGLADESH

India and Bangladesh have opened a new chapter in regional connectivity by expanding the scope of inland water transport mechanism that would enable to boost trade in the region. Note all the ports mentioned in the newscard and the image. Also, keep a tab on river systems of North east India. What is the news? • The Standing Committee on the Protocol and the Shipping Secretary level Talks are the institutional arrangements to discuss and make the Protocol more effective. • During the latest discussions key decisions were taken on the extension of protocol routes, the inclusion of new routes and declaration of new Ports of Call to facilitate trade between the two countries. New routes The number of Indo Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) routes is being increased from 8 to 10 and new locations are also added to the existing routes: – 1) Inclusion of Sonamura- Daudkhandi stretch of Gumtiriver (93 Km) as IBP route: • It will improve the connectivity of Tripura and adjoining States with Indian and Bangladesh`s economic centres and will help the hinterland of both the countries. 2) Rajshahi-Dhulian-Rajshahi Routes and its extension up to Aricha (270 km) • It will help the augmentation of infrastructure in Bangladesh as it would reduce the transportation cost of stone chips/aggregate to northern part of Bangladesh through this route. It will also decongest the Land Custom Stations on both sides. Ports of Call • Port of call means an intermediate stop for a ship on its scheduled journey for cargo operation or taking on supplies or fuel. copyrights@svadyayaforupsc 8500968010

• The following are existing Ports of Call in the two countries on Indo-Bangladesh Protocol (IBP) route: India Kolkata Haldia Pandu Karimganj Silghat Dhubri

Bangladesh Narayanganj Khulna Mongla Sirajganj Ashuganj Pangaon

• Newly added: Two more extended Ports of Call have been added • Inclusion of Jogigopha in India and Bahadurabad in Bangladesh as new Port of Call will provide connectivity to Meghalaya, Assam and Bhutan. About the Protocol on Inland Water Transit • Bangladesh and India have a long-standing and time-tested Protocol on Transit and Trade through inland waterways of both countries. • This Protocol, which was first signed in 1972 (immediately after independence of Bangladesh), is a reflection of shared history and friendship between the two countries. • It was last renewed in 2015 for five years with a provision for its automatic renewal for a further period of five years giving long term assurance to various stakeholders. BANGLADESH FARES BETTER Content In the last decade, on a range of social development indicators, Bangladesh has fared better than India. So it is highly unlikely that Bangladeshis would want to leave their cherished homeland for India. Comparison with Bangladesh on the development indicators • Growth rate: This year Bangladesh’s economic growth rate has surpassed India. • Social development indicators: In the last decade, on a range of social development indicators, from infant mortality to immunisation, Bangladesh has fared better. • India lagging behind the neighbours in quality of life: Undoubtedly, since economic liberalisation, Indians have grown much richer than Bangladeshis, but in terms of quality of life our neighbour largely outshines us. o India trails across several (not all) composite indices from the latest Global Hunger Index to the Gender Development Index. o Even on the 2019 World Happiness Index, Bangladeshis score better. o While, technically, on the Human Development Index, Bangladesh scores marginally less, this is largely because the index merges income and non-income parameters. How India’s neighbour forged ahead in social development? • Dissolving the inequality and bridging the social and gender distances: In the case of Bangladesh, the most prominent factor has been- o Removing inequality: The country’s ability to dissolve inequalities through sustained investment in public services and- o Bridging the social distance: The bridging of social and gender distances. • Development in Healthcare: Till the Eighties, Indians lived longer than most South Asians. o But now, despite being poorer, an average Bangladeshi female child at birth can expect to live for four years more. o Fewer Bangladeshi children also die before their fifth birthday.

copyrights@svadyayaforupsc 8500968010 o Community clinics: The formula for this success has been relatively simple. Since 2009, the government has constructed well-stocked “community clinics” in every third village. o Home delivery of medicines: For four decades, committed cadres of government health workers have delivered medicines and family planning to women in the comfort of their homes. • Achievement in Education: On the education front, even though India has a demographic dividend, Bangladesh has achieved a marginal advantage in youth literacy. o Further, across income quintiles, Bangladeshi girls have higher educational attainments than boys. o Free textbooks: The government provides free textbooks in the government, non- government (NGO) and madrassa-run schools promptly at the start of the academic year, without the chronic delays which plague India. o The greater proportion of expenditure on educations: Economist Jean Drèze has aptly described India as amongst the world champions in social underspending. In contrast, Bangladesh despite being a poorer neighbour since the Nineties has spent a greater proportion of government expenditure on education and healthcare. o The fruits of these sustained investments have reaped rich dividends. • Nutrition: On the nutrition front too, Bangladesh fares better. o Thirty-three per cent of Bangladeshi children are underweight compared to India’s 36 per cent as per the demographic health surveys. o Similarly, a greater proportion of Indian children are also stunted. o Further, the inequality between wealth quintiles is starker in India. o A few years ago, the Bangladeshi government, with the help of NGOs, hired a unique cadre of “PushtiApas” (nutrition sisters) who went door-to-door in their social endeavours. o Unlike the Indian PoshanAbhiyan’s focus on vegetarian foods, they did not shy away from teaching mothers to feed growing infants a balanced diet with mashed fish, meat and eggs. • Sanitation: Even at the turn of the millennium, at least 80 per cent of Bangladeshi homes had toilets, even if rudimentary. o By 2016, 96 per cent of households and 80 per cent of schools in had proper sanitation. o Apart from the typical Islamic emphasis on hygiene, local governments not only provide cement rings for free to poor families but they also regularly spread messages through community group discussions, mosques, mass media and schools. o Local entrepreneurs have also ensured that with the innovation of plastic pans, the cheapest toilets cost less than Chinese mobile phones. • Women empowerment: Bangladeshi women are also increasingly assertive. o The 2006 World Bank Survey on Gender Norms found a growing trend of “educational hypogamy”. o In sharp contrast to India’s decline, Bangladeshi women also have higher labour force participation. Contrast • In comparison, India is grappling with the worst unemployment levels in 45 years and sinking economic growth rates. Government ministers should pull up their own socks, instead. Berating our neighbours with the false bogey of illegal immigrants, in light of the Citizenship Amendment Act, is nothing but an unjustifiable distraction. Instead, it would

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be far wiser for the Indian government to humbly learn the recipe of South Asian success to improve the lives of citizens from the impressive “Shonar Bangla”. [PIB] EXERCISE SAMPRITI-IX As part of the ongoing Indo-Bangladesh defence cooperation, a joint military training exercise SAMPRITI-IX is being conducted in Meghalaya. Exercise SAMPRITI • It is an important bilateral defence cooperation endeavour between India and Bangladesh and will be the ninth edition of the exercise which is hosted alternately by both countries. • During the joint military exercise SAMPRITI-IX, a Command Post Exercise (CPX) and a Field Training Exercise (FTX) will be conducted. • For both the CPX and FTX, a scenario where both nations are working together in a Counter-Terrorism environment will be simulated under the UN Charter. • The FTX curriculum is progressively planned where the participants will initially get familiar with each other’s organizational structure and tactical drills. • The training will culminate with a final validation exercise in which troops of both armies will jointly practice a Counter Terrorist Operation in a controlled and simulated environment. INDIA-BANGLADESH JOINT RIVER COMMISSION (JRC) Bangladesh has not sent a delegation for the Joint River Commission (JRC) meeting with India that was scheduled to be held. This deferral is seen as a dissent to the ongoing CAA debate. About the JRC • An Indo-Bangladesh Joint Rivers Commission (JRC) is functioning since 1972. • It was established with a view to maintaining liaison in order to ensure the most effective joint effort in maximizing the benefits from common river systems. • The JRC is headed by Water Resources Ministers of both the countries. • Discussions have been continuing with Bangladesh for sharing of waters of Teesta &Fenirivers besides other six common rivers namely; Manu, Muhri, Khowai, Gumti, Jaldhaka and Torsa. Implications • India and Bangladesh share 54 rivers. Such technical level meetings are to be held regularly. • But this deviance has cast a shadow over the agreement to share the waters of the Feniriver that was taken up during the visit of PM Sheikh Hasina.

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[PIB] FENI RIVER

• The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the MoU between India and Bangladesh on withdrawal of 1.82 cusec of water from Feni River by India for drinking water supply scheme for Sabroom town Tripura. Feni River • Feni River is a river in southeastern Bangladesh. • It is a trans-boundary river with an ongoing dispute about water rights. • The Feni River originates in South Tripura district and flows through Sabroom town and then enters Bangladesh. • Muhuri River, also called Little Feni, from Noakhali District joins it near its mouth. • The river is navigable by small boats as far as Ramgarh, about 80 kilometres (50 mi) upstream. Why such agreement? • The question of sharing of the waters of the river between India and Pakistan was first discussed in 1958. • As on date, there is no water-sharing agreement on Feni River between India and Bangladesh. • The present supply of drinking water to Sabroom town is inadequate. The ground water in this region has high iron content. • Implementation of this scheme would benefit over 7000 population of Sabroom town. [OPED OF THE DAY] DELHI NEEDS TO DO MORE TO PROTECT AND DEEPEN TIES WITH DHAKA Op-ed of the day is the most important editorial of the day. This will cover a key issue that came in the news and for which students must pay attention. This will also take care of certain key issues students have to cover in respective GS papers. Context Sheikh Hasina made a four-day official visit to India. Joint statement • The joint statement contained mutual appreciation for steps taken in various fields and outlines of what is intended in the use of ports and connectivity, water sharing, power, gas, education, culture, defence. • For Bangladesh, the reference to the plight of the “forcibly displaced” persons of Rakhine in Myanmar is a positive development.

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• The joint statement lacked the vision of the one issued after Hasina’s visit in 2010. The effort then was to raise the relationship after a dark period of suspicion and hostility. • Today, the relationship has matured greatly and it is possible to undertake projects that underline continuity and interdependence. From the meet • Bangladesh PM articulated points critical for the future welfare of South Asia. • To move beyond the majority-minority mindset… Pluralism has been the strength. To celebrate South Asia’s diversities in religion, ethnicity and language. • To manage geopolitical realities through friendship and collaboration. To balance regional political realities for the interest of people. Bangladesh – internal picture • In the months preceding general elections in Bangladesh in 2018, members of the BNP visited India to persuade public opinion on two counts. o The party had abjured its anti-Indian posture and, if re-elected, would pursue a path of cooperation with India. o Public opinion in Bangladesh is turning rapidly against the Awami League for its misgovernance. • After two terms in power, there would be a degree of public apathy towards the Awami League government. • There’s also a steady increase in the GDP, improvement in all parameters of economic activity as also law and order. • The committed pushback against jihadi activities supported from foreign shores. Trouble in India-Bangladesh relations • The National Register of Citizens has been a worry for Bangladesh. Given the impoverished and uneducated status of those affected, it is questionable how the levels of appeal can be accessed. • The NRC, to be extended to all of India may eventually fall-out on Bangladesh and Indo- Bangladesh relations. • What Bangladesh delivered o The Ganga Waters Agreement had removed an intractable problem permanently vitiating the relationship. o The Land and Maritime Boundary Agreements were of mutual benefit. o Bangladesh has comprehensively addressed Indian concerns with regard to support to militant elements in the North-east. • India o It continues to be unable to deliver on Teesta. o The Ganga Barrage project in Bangladesh carries economic advantages as well as political overtones but has not been addressed with suitable despatch by India to enable Bangladesh to obtain external funding. o Delay in implementation of the BBIN is inexplicable. o Lastly, the hate-mongering and incidents of lynching of Muslims in India can affect public perceptions. Way ahead • India should not be perceived as committed to the Awami League.

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• India’s perceived quasi-support to the BNP prior to the 2001 elections and its consequences should not be forgotten. • India’s internal aberrations should not derail the one substantive relationship we have developed in the neighbourhood. MAINAMATI MAITREE EXERCISE 2019 News • Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) has concluded a three-day ‘MainamatiMaitree Exercise 2019’ as a part of ‘Confidence Building Measures’ between the two border guards. MainamatiMaitree Exercise 2019 • The exercise was named after a hill range situated 8 km west of Comilla Township in Bangladesh, which is home to an ancient Buddhist archaeological site in the region. • The main objective of this exercise was to plan and conduct anti-smuggling and anti- criminal activity related operations with ultimate aim of achieving better joint operational efficiency and border management in the area. • A series of joint exercises and exchanges are being held in the Tripura-Bangla frontier illegal incursions by Rohingya people. [OP-ED SNAP] THE CENTRE MOVES EAST Note4students Mains Paper 2: IR| India and its neighborhood- relations From UPSC perspective, the following things are important: Prelims level: SAARC, BIMSTEC, BCIM. Mains level: The newscard discusses impact of B’desh election result on the sub- continent, in a brief manner. Context • Sheikh Hasina’s party, which leads the Grand Alliance, has romped back to power for an unprecedented fourth term in office. • The general election has given the Grand Alliance, or, more specifically, the Awami League, a huge majority in the JatiyoSangshad, the country’s Parliament, to a point where no effective Opposition is in sight. Background What is India’s interest in the Bangladesh elections? Given India was an active player in the birth of this 47-year-old nation, Delhi has always looked out for Dhaka. For India, Bangladesh is important for numerous reasons. 1. Connectivity • Perhaps on top of the list is connectivity between India’s mainland and the crucial northeast, which is part of India’s “Look East” Policy. • The only connection between India’s mainland and the northeast was the Chicken’s Neck – a narrow strip of land that has always been a huge security concern. Snap the chicken’s neck and a huge part of the country is cut off. • India and Bangladesh have signed several pacts, so India can actually send goods and passengers over land across Bangladesh, connecting Bengal to Tripura. • Chittagong port, too, is now open to Indian vessels and will ease supply of goods, meaning India is much more connected to the northeast than before.

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2. Security • The other part of ensuring the security of the northeast is by ensuring that Bangladesh does not become a shelter for its insurgents. • It had played a sterling role, flushing out northeastern terrorists from Bangladesh and even handing over the once-dreaded ULFA terrorist AnupChetia to India. • The other big security concern for India is that Bangladesh should not turn into the frontline of Islamic terror in the southeast — something that looked possible in the early 2000s when the Jamaat-ulMujahideen Bangladesh, or the JMB, ruled the roost and its leaders like Bangla Bhai terrorised not just Bangladesh but India too. Bangladesh turned into a launchpad for Islamic terror activities in India. • It was Sheikh Hasina who proactively cracked down on groups like the JMB that had a free-run in the previous regime of Begum Khaleda Zia of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. • India’s relationship with Bangladesh is also linked to its relationship with China. India does not want Bangladesh to become a pearl in China’s “String of Pearls” strategy to hem in India by using its neighbours. • Given Bangladesh’s GDP and economic growth, the Indian industry is taking a serious interest in investing in the country. Sheikh Hasina has helmed an economic upswing in the country which the industry hopes will continue. Significance of this election • First, for the first time in a decade, all the political parties took part in the election (the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, or the BNP, boycotted the 2014 election). In other words, this time voting was based on an inclusive election. • Second, this was the first time a general election was held under a political governmentsince the fall of the Hussain Muhammad Ershad military regime in 1990. • The earlier stipulation of elections being supervised by a caretaker administration. • It stuck to the justified position that a government elected for five years cannot morally and logicallyhand over power to an unelected administration for three months before a new elected government comes into office. Bangladesh transformation under the critical leadership of Sheikh Hasina • Bangladesh has emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. Its per capita income has doubled over the last decade. It is all set to leave the category of “least developed countries”. • Hasina’s ambition is to accelerate the annual economic growth rate from the current 7 per cent to nearly 10 per cent by the time Bangladesh celebrates its 50th birthday in 2021. What does this economic transformation of Bangladesh mean for the Subcontinent as a whole? 1. Economic model • It has begun to change the economic hierarchy in the region, by displacing Pakistan in the second spot. • The per capita income and aggregate GDP of Bangladesh are $1800 and $275 bn respectively, is now larger than that of Pakistan’s at about $1600 and $310 bn. • Thus, there is urging in Islamabad to adopt the “Bangladesh model” — where the focus is on economic development rather than political adventurism and promoting religious moderation instead of extremism. 2. Shift in centre of gravity

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• It alters the balance within South Asia by tilting the region’s economic centre of gravity towards the east. • The economic advancement of Bangladesh helps lift up the whole of the eastern Subcontinent, including India’s Northeast as well as Bhutan and Nepal. • It had chosen the path of regional cooperation, i.e. helped found the SAARC in the mid- 1980s, re-vitalisation of the BIMSTEC forum. • Bangladesh is also critical for the success of Beijing’s plans to integrate its Yunnan province with Myanmar, Bangladesh and eastern India. 3. Peaceful resolution of territorial issues • Bangladesh have peacefully resolved its maritime territorial issues with India and Burma through arbitration. • That opens up significant room for maritime economic and security cooperation within the Bay of Bengal. That in turn will deepen the integration between eastern Subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Maintaining Balance in the Foreign Policy 1. In the field of foreign affairs, the government has based its approach to the outside world on pragmatism, thus successfully preserving a balance in Bangladesh’s relations with India, China and Russia. 2. The government has also found appreciation from the international communityin its treatment of the Rohingya refugees nearly 1 million refugees have found shelter in Bangladesh following their expulsion from Myanmar. 3. It has gone out of its way to ensure the safety of the refugees even as it tries, rather fitfully, to strike a deal with Myanmar on the return of the Rohingya. 4. For China, the most desirable long-term outcome would be to manage its relations with Dhaka in such a manner that Indian anxieties are assuaged and a regional win-win framework linking China-Bangladesh-India is a possibility. Way forward 1. The current challenges for Hasina are to consolidate her domestic agenda and balance her country’s relations with India and China the neighboring giants. 2. While India enabled the creation of Bangladesh, it is a complex relationshipwith a number of areas of discord, including illegal immigration. 3. In the next five years, it will be the government’s responsibilityto go beyond an emphasis on economic progress to ensure rule of law and democracy, in the form of a properly functional Parliament, a free judiciary, and an efficient executive. 4. The rise of Bangladesh and the expanding regional cooperation centred around it allows us to imagine a positive future for the Eastern subcontinent and its integration with the dynamic East Asian region. With inputs from: NDTV [OP-ED SNAP]: BURDEN OF VICTORY News • Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has won a fourth term in the just concluded elections, which makes her the longest serving head of government that the nearly 50-year-old country has known. Details of the elections

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1. Awami League took 288 of the 300 elected seats in the 350-member JatiyaSangsad, the Bangladeshi Parliament, and as a result will get to nominate its candidates to most of the remaining seats, all of which are reserved for women. 2. With just seven seats of its own, the Opposition JatiyaOikiya Front has been wiped out. Why Sheikh Hasina Won? • Economic progress:Despite all the troubles in Bangladesh, one reason why voters have reposed their trust in her for the third consecutive term — one term was in the ’90s — is because of the country’s economic progress which has provided jobs and in turn contributed to what are South Asia’s best social indicators. • Weak opposition: The main opposition leader Khalida Zia is in jail Importance of the Victory for India 1. As a friend of Hasina, Delhi is clearly happy at the election outcome. 2. PM Modi was the first foreign leader to call and congratulate her on the victory. 3. Ties between the two countries have never been better, leading Modi to describe it as the “golden era” in bilateral relations. 4. India has made trade concessions to Bangladesh, invested more money in the country, and is in the midst of several infrastructure and connectivity projects. 5. The Hasina government has shut down camps of terrorist groups operating in India’s Northeast from safe havens in Bangladesh. The only outstanding issue between the two is the Teesta river waters sharing agreement. India has rightly stayed out of the internal tumult over the last five years or more. Way forward 1. With great power comes great responsibility. 2. It is now up to Prime Minister Hasina to ensure that her government uses its sweeping mandate not to stamp out, but to strengthen, a multi-party democracy, individual freedoms, and the rule of law in Bangladesh. 3. The last five years saw the Hasina government take an authoritarian turn, jailing opponents, stifling dissent, and generally responding to all criticism badly. 4. Repression can lead to a rejection of democratic politics. 5. The alternative, as is evident at many places in the world, could be much worse than what Bangladesh has experienced in the past. 6. To begin with, she has to heal a country rattled by political divisions and violence. 7. The Election Commission should conduct a fair investigation into allegations of rigging to restore faith in the poll process. 8. Hasina should reach out to the Opposition. Her otherwise impressive record has been marred by her government’s authoritarian character. 9. The victory is a chance for Ms. Hasina to mend her ways, to be more inclusive and run a government that respects the rule of law, the basic rights of citizens and institutional freedom. [OP-ED SNAP] THE SPECTRE OF DEPORTATION Note4students Mains Paper 2: IR | India & its neighborhood- relations From the UPSC perspective, the following things are important: Prelims level: National Register of Citizens (NRC)

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Mains level: How NRC process can impact India-Bangladesh ties Context NRC date extended 1. The last date for filing claims and objections for Assam’s National Register of Citizens (NRC) has been extended by the Supreme Court to December 31, from December 15 2. This exercise of compiling the NRC in the first place has sparked a debate around its political, economic and humanitarian consequences, and its implications for India’s relationship with its neighbours, particularly Bangladesh Are illegal immigrants only in India? 1. There are legal as well as illegal Indian immigrants in Bangladesh too 2. According to the latest available Bangladesh government estimates of 2009, more than 500,000 Indians were working in Bangladesh Importance of Bangladeshi remittances 1. Bangladesh was reported to be among the highest source of remittances to India, behind the United Arab Emirates, the U.S., Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the U.K. 2. Many Indian citizens are securing coveted employment opportunities in Bangladesh through multinational companies, non-governmental organisations, and trading activities 3. To put things into perspective, most of them are employed in advantageous jobs in Bangladesh while Bangladeshis in India are largely employed in low-paying jobs Bangladesh’s silent reluctance 1. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured the Bangladesh government that those excluded from the NRC will not be deported, Dhaka has so far been silent on the issue, terming it as an ‘internal matter of India’ 2. This is seen as a signal that Bangladesh, already stretched in terms of resources and manpower to host Rohingya refugees, would not be acceding to a request of taking back Bengali-speaking Muslims in case deportation is initiated Neighbourhood first policy in shambles- China Effect 1. PM Modi came to power with proclamation of a ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. Midway in the final year of his term, the reality speaks quite differently 2. Nepal, once a time-tested ally, has tilted towards China since the 2015 Nepal blockade barring the entry of fuel, medicine and other vital supplies and holding the state to a literal siege 3. Nepal now has been given access to four Chinese ports at Tianjin, Shenzhen, Lianyungang and Zhanjiang in addition to its dry (land) ports at Lanzhou, Lhasa and Xigatse, as well as roads to these facilities, ending India’s monopoly to its trading routes 4. The India-Bhutan relationship has also been strained ever since India temporarily withdrew subsidies on cooking gas and kerosene in 2013, constraining bilateral ties 5. The Doklam stand-off in the summer of 2017 reinforced Bhutan’s scepticism towards Chinese expansionist plans across the region 6. Simultaneously, Thimphu has been underlining the landlocked kingdom’s aspiration to affirm its sovereignty 7. It has, for instance, stepped out of India’s diplomatic influence, as evidenced by its withdrawal from the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) motor vehicles agreement 8. The India-China power play has also cast its shadow over Sri Lanka and the Maldives in the last few years

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Bangladesh’s importance 1. Against this backdrop of China making inroads into South Asia and India’s backyard, Bangladesh has so far been the most trusted ally of India 2. On the security front, it has cooperated in India’s crackdown on insurgents 3. Annual bilateral trade is set to cross the $9 billion mark, making it India’s biggest trading partner in South Asia 4. In addition, Bangladesh has facilitated connectivity with the Northeast by allowing the use of Chittagong and Mongla ports 5. However, the Teesta water-sharing issue remains unaddressed, non-tariff barriers on Bangladeshi exports persist and border killings are yet to become a thing of the past Way forward 1. The NRC issue threatens to disturb the equilibrium in India-Bangladesh ties 2. Plans for deportation of those not on the NRC list are not only politically imprudent but also risk inciting unrest across the region 3. Previous similar exercises have not been effective and only resulted in alienating individuals from their natural rights India and Bangladesh Sign Agreements for Enhancing Inland and Coastal Waterways Connectivity From UPSC perspective, the following things are important: Prelims level: Port of call, Name of ports mentioned in newscard Mains level: How Bangladesh can be used a gateway to northeast India Enhancing connectivity between India-Bangladesh 1. India and Bangladesh signed several milestone agreements for enhancing inland and coastal waterways connectivity between the two countries for trade and cruise movements 2. The two countries have signed an agreement to use Chattogram and Mongla Ports in Bangladesh for movement of goods to and from India 3. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has also been signed for movement of passenger and cruise services 4. An addendum to ‘Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade’ (PIWTT) between India and Bangladesh has been signed for inclusion of Dhubriin India and Pangaonin Bangladesh as new Ports of Call 5. These agreements will facilitate easier movement of goods and passengers between the two countries, giving an impetus to trade and tourism Agreements for the port of call 1. The two sides agreed to consider inclusion of Rupnarayanriver (National Waterway-86) from Geonkhali to Kolaghat in the protocol route and to declare Kolaghatin West Bengal as new Port of Call 2. Chilmari was agreed to as a port of call in Bangladesh 3. The new arrangement will facilitate the movement of fly ash, cement, construction materials etc from India to Bangladesh through IWT on Rupnarayanriver 4. Both sides agreed to declare Badarpur on river Barak (NW 16) as an Extended Port of Call of Karimganj in Assam and Ghorasal of Ashuganj in Bangladesh on a reciprocal basis

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5. The North Eastern states would get connected to directly to the ports of Kolkata and Haldia in India and Mongla in Bangladesh through waterways which would facilitate movement EXIM cargo and would also reduce the logistic costs River cruises 1. In another important understanding reached at between the two countries, the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for movement of passengers and cruise vessels on Inland Protocol route and coastal shipping routes have been finalised 2. These river cruise services are likely to commence between Kolkata – Dhaka – Guwahati – Jorhat and back Reducing distance of Assam 1. It was also agreed that a Joint Technical Committee will explore the technical feasibility of operationalisation of Dhulian-Rajshahi protocol route up to Aricha 2. The reconstruction and opening up of Jangipur navigational lock on river Bhagirathi subject to the provisions of the Treaty between India and Bangladesh on Sharing of Ganga Waters at Farakka,1996 3. This move has the potential to reduce the distance to Assam by more than 450 kms on the protocol routes 4. Both sides have also agreed for development of Jogighopa as a hub/trans-shipment terminal for movement of cargo to Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Bhutan and notifying Munsiganj River terminal by Bangladesh Customs for routing third party Exim cargo through Kolkata Port

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