Modi’s Indus Water Treaty Stand and 11-Year Milestone Dominate India’s Political Landscape
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the center of global and domestic attention following a series of high-profile developments. On May 27, Modi reiterated India’s strong position on the Indus Waters Treaty, declaring that water from rivers over which India has rights will no longer be shared with Pakistan. This announcement follows India’s suspension of the decades-old treaty after a deadly attack in Kashmir last month, which New Delhi attributed to Pakistan-based militants—a claim Islamabad denies.
Speaking at public events in Rajasthan and Gujarat, Modi emphasized that “India’s water will remain within the nation, serving its rightful purpose for the country’s development,” underscoring a shift in India’s approach to cross-border relations and signaling the possibility of renegotiating the treaty on new terms. The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, is vital for Pakistan’s agriculture, supplying water for 80% of its farms. While Pakistan’s finance minister has downplayed any immediate impact, the move marks a historic change in South Asian water diplomacy.
Meanwhile, Modi’s supporters are celebrating his completion of 11 years as Prime Minister, highlighting India’s rapid economic ascent. Under his leadership, India has surpassed Japan to become the world’s fourth-largest economy with a GDP of $4 trillion, a milestone frequently cited at recent rallies and government events. Modi’s government is also pushing forward with major development projects, including over ₹77,000 crore in new infrastructure investments in Gujarat.
However, critics have raised concerns about job losses and ongoing economic challenges, referencing recent remarks by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar about the need for further reforms and the impact of global headwinds.
On the international front, Modi’s diplomatic outreach remains robust. His recent visit to the United States, hosted by President Donald Trump, marked a new chapter in India-US relations, with both nations launching the “US-India COMPACT” initiative to deepen defense, technology, and economic cooperation. Modi’s rapport with global leaders and his efforts to position India as a key player in international forums continue to shape the country’s geopolitical narrative.
As India navigates these complex developments, Modi’s leadership and policy decisions are set to have lasting implications for the region and beyond.