(a) Gujral Doctrine
The Gujral Doctrine was a set of foreign policy principles introduced by I.K. Gujral, India’s External Affairs Minister (1996-1997) and later Prime Minister (1997-1998). It aimed to improve relations with India’s neighboring countries through non-reciprocal cooperation and mutual respect.
Key Principles of the Gujral Doctrine
1. Non-Reciprocal Cooperation: India, as the largest country in South Asia, should extend unilateral benefits to its smaller neighbors without expecting reciprocity.
2. Respect for Sovereignty: India should not interfere in the internal affairs of its neighbors.
3. Peaceful Resolution of Disputes: Issues between India and its neighbors should be settled through peaceful negotiations.
4. Non-Use of Territory Against Neighbors: No South Asian country should allow its territory to be used for activities that harm the interests of another.
5. Regional Cooperation: India should actively support SAARC and other regional frameworks to promote economic and security cooperation.
Impact and Relevance
– Strengthened India’s relations with Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Maldives.
– Improved diplomatic engagement with Pakistan, although tensions remained due to cross-border terrorism.
– The doctrine influenced India’s Neighborhood First Policy but was later replaced with a more pragmatic and security-oriented approach under subsequent governments.
Despite its limitations, the Gujral Doctrine remains relevant as a foundation for India’s soft power diplomacy and peaceful engagement in South Asia.
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(b) River Disputes
India, with its vast river network, faces multiple river disputes with neighboring countries and within its states. These disputes arise due to competing demands for water resources for irrigation, hydroelectric projects, and drinking water supply.
Major International River Disputes
1. India-Pakistan (Indus Water Treaty, 1960):
– The treaty, brokered by the World Bank, divided the Indus river system, with Pakistan controlling Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab, while India controlled Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi.
– Disputes continue over India’s hydroelectric projects in Jammu & Kashmir, such as Kishanganga and Ratle dams.
2. India-Bangladesh (Ganges Water Sharing Dispute):
– Resolved with the 1996 Ganges Water Treaty, which ensures fair water distribution.
– Concerns remain over the Teesta River dispute, as Bangladesh demands a higher share of water.
3. India-China (Brahmaputra River Dispute):
– China’s construction of dams and water diversion projects in Tibet raises concerns in India’s Northeast, particularly in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Major Interstate River Disputes in India
1. Cauvery Water Dispute (Karnataka-Tamil Nadu):
– A prolonged dispute over the sharing of Cauvery river water, leading to legal battles and periodic tensions.
2. Krishna-Godavari Dispute (Andhra Pradesh-Telangana-Maharashtra-Karnataka):
– Conflicts over hydroelectric projects and water allocation.
Way Forward
– Strengthening water-sharing agreements with diplomatic engagement.
– Utilizing river basin management models for sustainable water use.
– Encouraging mediation by neutral international agencies for dispute resolution.
River disputes, if not resolved amicably, pose significant challenges to regional stability, agriculture, and water security. Sustainable water management and cooperative diplomacy are essential to addressing these issues effectively.
