InternationalThursday, 3 September 2026·The Hindu - National
India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty renewal: Jaishankar says Bihar’s concerns will be considered
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said India will consider Bihar’s interests before renewing the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In August 2026, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said India would decide on renewing the 1996 India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty while keeping Bihar’s interests in focus.
Key specifics
- The treaty will expire on December 31, 2026.
- Jaishankar’s response was sent in a letter dated August 28, 2026.
- Inter-ministerial consultations were held on August 22, 2023, October 30, 2023, March 15, 2024 and May 31, 2024.
- An authorised representative of the Bihar government participated in those consultations.
- JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha said Bihar’s scientific assessment concerns affect 13 crore people.
Exam lens
International relations and treaty-based question, 1996 agreement, December 31, 2026 expiry, 4 consultation dates, Bihar’s water concerns — TNPSC may ask which treaty is due for renewal and which ministry led consultations.