📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / U.S. Secretary of Defense
Politics
Jaishankar urges Bihar’s water needs be factored in Ganga treaty renewal
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 03 Sep 2026, 05:03 AM
👁 34
Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said Bihar’s water requirements must be taken into account before the Ganga river water‑sharing treaty is renewed.
New Delhi – External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar told reporters that any renewal of the inter‑state Ganga water‑sharing agreement must incorporate the water needs of Bihar, a state that relies heavily on the river for agriculture and drinking supply.
Jaishankar highlighted that the existing treaty, which governs the allocation of Ganga waters among several states, is due for review next year. He warned that overlooking Bihar’s requirements could spark inter‑state tensions and affect the livelihoods of millions.
The minister called for a consultative process involving all riparian states, urging the central government to ensure that the revised accord balances ecological sustainability with the growing demand from Bihar’s expanding population and farms.
Stakeholders from Bihar’s water department have previously raised concerns about decreasing flows during the lean season, and Jaishankar’s remarks signal a political push to address those issues before the treaty’s renewal is finalized.
The statement comes amid broader discussions on river basin management across the country, with the centre seeking to harmonise regional interests while safeguarding the Ganga’s health.
Jaishankar highlighted that the existing treaty, which governs the allocation of Ganga waters among several states, is due for review next year. He warned that overlooking Bihar’s requirements could spark inter‑state tensions and affect the livelihoods of millions.
The minister called for a consultative process involving all riparian states, urging the central government to ensure that the revised accord balances ecological sustainability with the growing demand from Bihar’s expanding population and farms.
Stakeholders from Bihar’s water department have previously raised concerns about decreasing flows during the lean season, and Jaishankar’s remarks signal a political push to address those issues before the treaty’s renewal is finalized.
The statement comes amid broader discussions on river basin management across the country, with the centre seeking to harmonise regional interests while safeguarding the Ganga’s health.