Fifty Years of Bangladesh-India Relations: Issues, Challenges and Possibilities

This book explores Bangladesh-India relations in the last fifty years, examining key issues such as border management, water cooperation, and connectivity. It also investigates the role of China, civil society, and the future course of actions in the partnership. It is valuable for students of International Relations, Political Science, and policymakers interested in Bangladesh-India relations, Bangladesh foreign policy, India's foreign policy, and South Asia.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2022
Publisher: Pentagon Press

This captivating book delves into the intricate dynamics of Bangladesh-India relations, spanning the past fifty years. It explores key issues such as border management, water cooperation, and connectivity, while also examining the challenges and opportunities that have shaped these relations. The book further investigates the influential role of China, the role of civil society in Bangladesh-India interactions, and charts a future course of action for the partnership in the post-pandemic world. With its comprehensive approach, the book offers valuable insights from both theoretical and policy perspectives, making it an indispensable resource for students of International Relations, Political Science, academics, researchers, and policymakers with a keen interest in Bangladesh-India relations, Bangladesh foreign policy, India's foreign policy, and South Asia as a whole.

Introduction:
The relationship between Bangladesh and India has been a complex and multifaceted one, marked by historical, cultural, and geopolitical factors. Over the past fifty years, the two countries have experienced a range of challenges and opportunities that have shaped their bilateral relations. This book aims to examine the key issues, challenges, and possibilities in Bangladesh-India relations during this period.

Border Management:
One of the most critical aspects of Bangladesh-India relations is border management. The two countries share a long and porous border, which has been a source of tension and conflict in the past. However, in recent years, there have been efforts to improve border management through dialogue and cooperation. The establishment of the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Border Management Agreement (BMA) have been significant steps in this direction.

Water Cooperation:
Water cooperation is another key area of focus in Bangladesh-India relations. The Ganges River, which flows through both countries, is a vital source of water for millions of people. However, water sharing and utilization have been contentious issues, with India often claiming a larger share of the water resources. The Water Convention of 1997 and the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 have been instrumental in managing water resources between the two countries.

Connectivity:
Connectivity is another important aspect of Bangladesh-India relations. The development of transportation infrastructure, such as highways, rail links, and ports, has facilitated economic and cultural exchange between the two countries. However, there are still challenges in terms of connectivity, particularly in the remote areas of the border.

China Factor:
The role of China in Bangladesh-India relations has been a subject of debate and speculation. While China has been a significant economic partner for Bangladesh, its involvement in regional affairs has also raised concerns among some in India. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and China's growing influence in South Asia have been particularly contentious issues.

Civil Society:
Civil society organizations have played a significant role in shaping Bangladesh-India relations. They have advocated for greater human rights, democracy, and social justice in both countries. Civil society groups have also been involved in promoting peace and stability in the region.

Future Course of Action:
The future course of action in Bangladesh-India relations will depend on a range of factors, including political will, economic interests, and regional dynamics. It is important for both countries to prioritize dialogue and cooperation to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive examination of Bangladesh-India relations over the past fifty years. It explores key issues, challenges, and possibilities in the bilateral relationship, while also investigating the role of China, civil society, and connectivity. The book contributes to both from theoretical and policy perspectives and therefore will be immensely useful to the students of International Relations, Political Science, to academics, researchers, and policymakers with interest on Bangladesh-India relations, Bangladesh foreign policy, India's foreign policy in particular, and South Asia in general.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 161 x 238 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789390095292