On April 23, 2025, India announced a dramatic shift in its water diplomacy—placing the Indus Waters Treaty “in abeyance” with immediate effect. The landmark 1960 agreement, which governs the distribution of the Indus river system between India and Pakistan, is now in limbo following a deadly terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir that claimed 26 lives.
In this detailed explainer, we unpack what the Indus Waters Treaty is and why it has served as a pillar of stability for over 60 years, how India’s decision could affect Pakistan’s agriculture and water supply, and the changes India can now implement in its hydropower and dam operations. We also examine why India believes cross-border terrorism justifies suspending the treaty, the legal framework under the Vienna Convention that allows for such a move, and what this development signals for the future of India-Pakistan relations.
From the future of river inspections to the fate of downstream regions in Pakistan, this decision could reshape South Asia’s geopolitical landscape.
Watch now to understand the full implications of India’s bold step—and what could happen next.
Published on April 24, 2025
Anurag Dhole is a seasoned journalist and content writer with a passion for delivering timely, accurate, and engaging stories. With over 8 years of experience in digital media, she covers a wide range of topics—from breaking news and politics to business insights and cultural trends. Jane's writing style blends clarity with depth, aiming to inform and inspire readers in a fast-paced media landscape. When she’s not chasing stories, she’s likely reading investigative features or exploring local cafés for her next writing spot.