New Delhi, May 6, 2025 — In a bold and assertive statement following the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared that India’s water resources would now be used solely for the benefit of the country. Speaking at the ABP Network’s ‘India@2047’ Summit, the Prime Minister emphasized that national interest will take precedence in all decisions, especially those concerning natural resources.
“Earlier, even the water which rightfully belonged to India was going outside the country. Now, India’s water will flow for the country’s interest and will be useful for it,” PM Modi stated, in a clear reference to the recent diplomatic move to put the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir.
The treaty, signed in 1960, had governed water-sharing between India and Pakistan for over six decades. However, in light of repeated provocations and continued cross-border terrorism, India has initiated strong countermeasures, including reviewing its commitments under the water-sharing pact.
“A discussion is going on in media over the water issue… ‘Bharat ke haq ka paani, Bharat ke haq mein bahega,’” PM Modi said, underlining that India would now prioritize its rights over the eastern rivers and ensure their waters are channeled into national development.
Highlighting the importance of long-term vision and national interest, the Prime Minister said, “For taking big decisions and achieving objectives, it is important to give primacy to national interest and believe in the country’s capability.”
PM Modi also spoke about India’s shifting focus from a GDP-centric model to a more inclusive approach, which he termed as the “Gross Empowerment of People (GEP).” He noted that the interlinking of rivers and strategic utilization of water resources are part of this broader transformation aimed at empowering citizens and strengthening the nation’s core infrastructure.
The message is seen as a significant diplomatic and strategic warning to Pakistan, reiterating that India will not compromise on matters of national sovereignty and development.
