In a strong statement reflecting India’s changing stance on water-sharing with neighboring Pakistan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday asserted that the country’s river waters, which once flowed beyond its borders, will now be retained and used solely for the benefit of Indian citizens.
Speaking at a conclave organized by ABP Network, the Prime Minister addressed ongoing national discussions around water resources, particularly in the context of heightened tensions with Pakistan following the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Without directly naming Pakistan, Modi emphasized that water that belongs to India will no longer be allowed to benefit others at the cost of Indian interests.
“For years, water that rightfully belonged to India was flowing out of the country,” Modi said. “Now, this water will serve India’s needs. It will remain in India and be used to fulfill the interests of our people.”
The remarks come just days after India temporarily suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a historic water-sharing agreement with Pakistan, as part of a broader diplomatic response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people. The Indian government has blamed Pakistan-based groups for the attack.
In a move that could significantly affect downstream agriculture in Pakistan, India has also begun the process of flushing out reservoirs at the Baglihar and Salal hydroelectric projects located on the Chenab river in Jammu & Kashmir. This action has reportedly reduced the flow of water into Pakistan and may disrupt kharif crop sowing in the region.
Modi also highlighted his government’s efforts to optimize water use within the country, referencing ambitious river-linking projects such as the Ken-Betwa and the Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link. “These projects will transform the lives of millions of farmers by ensuring better irrigation and water management,” he added.
The Prime Minister’s remarks align with a series of diplomatic measures taken by New Delhi in recent weeks. In addition to reviewing the Indus Waters Treaty, India has cut back on Pakistan’s diplomatic presence, revoked Pakistani visas, and closed the Wagah-Attari border crossing in Punjab.
As the region watches closely for further developments, India’s assertive approach signals a clear message: national interests, particularly concerning natural resources, will take precedence in the face of security threats.
