Indus Water Treaty 1960 and India's share of water from the Indus river system

The Indus Water Treaty is a water-sharing agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960, with the assistance of the World Bank, to regulate the use of water from the Indus river system. This treaty was primarily designed to resolve water disputes between the two countries and ensure the equitable distribution of water resources.

Allocation of water under the Indus Water Treaty

According to the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty, the water from the Indus river system is divided into two major categories: the Eastern Rivers and the Western Rivers.

1. Eastern Rivers: The Eastern Rivers consist of the Satluj, Beas, and Ravi rivers. Under the treaty, India has been granted full rights to utilize the waters of these rivers. This means that India can use the entire flow of water from these rivers for various purposes such as irrigation, hydropower generation, and domestic use.

2. Western Rivers: The Western Rivers include the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab rivers. According to the treaty, these rivers are allocated to Pakistan. India, however, is allowed to utilize a limited amount of water from these rivers for non-consumptive uses, such as hydropower generation.

India's share of water from the Indus river system

According to the provisions of the Indus Water Treaty, India is allowed to use 20 percent of the total water carried by the Indus river system. This means that out of the total water available in the Indus river system, India can utilize 20 percent for non-consumptive purposes like hydropower generation.

It is important to note that the treaty does not allow India to construct any storage dams or divert the water of the Western Rivers for irrigation or other consumptive purposes. The primary objective of the treaty is to ensure that Pakistan receives the majority share of the water from the Indus river system, as the downstream riparian state.

In conclusion, according to the Indus Water Treaty 1960, India is entitled to use 20 percent of the total water carried by the Indus river system. This allocation is specifically for non-consumptive purposes, primarily hydropower generation. The treaty aims to promote cooperation and resolve water disputes between India and Pakistan while ensuring an equitable distribution of water resources.