The essentials
India is the largest country in South Asia and shares borders with most of the others, so its relations with each neighbour matter for the whole region. Relations have combined cooperation in trade, water sharing and development with disagreements over borders, migration and security.
Pakistan: The two countries fought wars in 1947–48, 1965 and 1971, and also had a conflict in Kargil in 1999. The Simla Agreement (1972) committed both to settle differences bilaterally and peacefully. They cooperate under the Indus Waters Treaty and have held several rounds of talks, though tensions over Kashmir and security continue.
Bangladesh: India supported Bangladesh's independence in 1971. Issues have included the sharing of Ganga waters, migration and border management. The Ganga Waters Treaty was signed in 1996. Trade and connectivity have expanded.
Nepal: The India–Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950) allows citizens of both countries to travel and work in each other's country, and the border is open. There have been occasional differences, but ties in trade, culture and hydroelectric cooperation are close.
Bhutan: India and Bhutan have very close relations; India supports hydroelectric and development projects there.
Sri Lanka: Apart from the involvement of the IPKF (1987–1990), relations have focused on trade; a free trade agreement between the two countries was signed in 1998.
Maldives: In 1988 India helped the government of the Maldives repel an attempted coup. India also assists in development and trade.
Key points
- Common issues: river waters, open or porous borders, migration and the role of outside powers.
- Treaties: Indus Waters (1960), Simla (1972), Ganga Waters (1996).
Exam tips
Prepare a table in your notebook of country, treaty and main issue. Match-the-following questions are common here.