India’s interest in Bangladesh Teesta project
India has expressed a significant interest in financing Bangladesh’s Teesta River Comprehensive Management and Restoration Project (TRCMRP), which is also eyed by China. This development came to light following discussions between Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud and Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra. The project aims to address water shortages, improve agricultural productivity, and manage flood and drought risks in Bangladesh
India’s interest in funding the TRCMRP is partly driven by strategic considerations to counter China’s growing influence in the region. China has been involved in the Teesta project since 2016, intending to enhance water management infrastructure and ensure a reliable water supply for irrigation.By stepping in, India hopes to strengthen its ties with Bangladesh and maintain its regional dominance.
This move is also seen as a potential step towards resolving the longstanding issue of water sharing of the Teesta River, which has been a point of contention between India and Bangladesh for years. Previous efforts to finalize a water-sharing treaty have been stalled, exacerbating water scarcity in Bangladesh and affecting its agricultural output.
India’s proactive approach could signify a shift towards more collaborative and equitable resource management in the region, although past delays in disbursement of funds and bureaucratic hurdles raise some skepticism about its commitment.
