| Summary/Abstract |
The long-term plans of China for securing natural resources, including water, hold ominous portents for the world at large, and for its neighbouring countries in particular. As far as the trans-border water resources between India and China go, China has an advantage being the upper riparian state. Its plan to dam the Brahmaputra River has particularly rung alarm bells in India. The potential impact of dams, not only on the livelihood and sustenance of the population dependent on the waters of the Brahmaputra River but also on their very existence due to catastrophic earthquakes and floods, is worrisome. Moreover, China’s capability and, arguably, the intent to use water as a weapon, when required, is another aspect India has to be mindful of. It is, therefore, imperative for India to evolve a well ‘thought-out’ and ‘thought-through’ strategy in concert with other lower riparian and like-minded states and international organisations to ensure that its security interests are safeguarded.
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