The Indian Prime Minister and his counterpart in Bangladesh have recently co-inaugurated three notable development projects supported by India. These developments highlight the continuously strengthening ties between the two countries and support mutual prosperity and growth.
Details of the Key Projects
The projects inaugurated include the Akhaura-Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link, the Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line, and the Maitree Super Thermal Power Project.
The Akhaura-Agartala Cross-Border Rail Link is realized through India’s grant assistance of Rs 392.52 crore to Bangladesh. It covers a 12.24 km route, comprising a 6.78 km Dual Gauge rail line in Bangladesh and 5.46 km in Tripura.
The Khulna-Mongla Port Rail Line is implemented under India’s concessional Line of Credit at a total cost of USD 388.92 million. The project involves constructing around 65 km of broad gauge rail route that will connect Mongla Port with Khulna’s existing rail network.
The Maitree Super Thermal Power Project, financed under an Indian Concessional Financing Scheme loan of USD 1.6 billion. This project houses a 1320 MW (2×660) Super Thermal Power Plant in Rampal, Khulna Division of Bangladesh. It is led by the Bangladesh-India Friendship Power Company (Private) Limited, a joint venture between India’s NTPC Ltd and the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB).
Significance of the Projects
These projects are expected to bring key benefits to both nations. They enhance connectivity, help in ensuring energy security and strengthen bilateral relations.
Providing an enhancement in trade and people-to-people relationships and offering significant contributions towards meeting energy needs are the main takes from these projects. Furthermore, these developments foster the strong bond between India and Bangladesh, showcasing collaborative efforts for mutual prosperity in line with India’s Neighborhood First policy.
Other Key Bilateral Developments
Apart from the aforementioned projects, other key bilateral developments between India and Bangladesh include the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline, Ganga Waters Treaty, and The Kushiyara River Treaty.
Joint exercises, such as Exercise Sampriti (Army) and Exercise Bongosagar (Navy), have also strengthened the bond and mutual understanding between the two countries’ defense forces.
Lastly, to offer some context for the significance of these developments, a previous question from the UPSC Civil Services Examination is worth noting. In 2017, candidates were asked to consider statements related to river Teesta, which has been a point of discussion in India-Bangladesh relations. The question emphasized the river’s source, its flow through Sikkim, and its drainage into the Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh. The correct answer noted that the River Rangeet indeed originates in Sikkim and is a tributary of river Teesta.
