PM Modi: “India’s Water Will Now Flow for India Only” Amid Tensions With Pakistan
New Delhi, 6th May 2025: In the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, India has intensified its strategic and diplomatic responses against Pakistan. The central government will conduct a nationwide civil defence mock drill today (Wednesday), aimed at preparing the civilian population for emergency scenarios amid heightened border tensions.
The public outcry demanding a strong reply to Pakistan has grown louder, with widespread support for assertive national action. Pakistani officials, meanwhile, have expressed concern over a possible retaliatory strike from India, reflecting rising anxiety across the border.
India Suspends Indus Water Treaty
One of the most significant moves came with the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty — a bilateral agreement signed in 1960. This decision was finalized after a high-level Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The suspension is set to remain in place until Islamabad demonstrates concrete action against cross-border terrorism.
Speaking on a private news channel, PM Modi commented on the strategic shift, saying, “For decades, the water of our rivers was a source of dispute. But our government has initiated a major campaign to link rivers in collaboration with state governments.”
He added, “India’s water will now flow in favor of India, stay for India, and benefit India only.”
He cited key projects like the Ken-Betwa Link and Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project as game-changers for millions of Indian farmers.
Trade and Maritime Links Severed
India has also ceased all imports from Pakistan. The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a complete ban on trade activities, while the Directorate General of Shipping has barred Pakistani vessels from entering Indian ports.
These measures mark a significant escalation in India’s non-military pressure on Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror incident that killed 26 civilians. Indian authorities have acknowledged an intelligence lapse and vowed corrective measures.
Civil Defence Preparedness Across India
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also ordered civil defence drills across 244 designated districts categorized based on sensitivity levels. These exercises are intended to boost public awareness and readiness in case of conflict escalation. State Chief Secretaries and civil defence officers reviewed drill preparations in a high-level meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday.
Modi Highlights DBT Success
During the interview, PM Modi also spoke about the success of the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, noting that previous governments failed to prevent leakages in welfare schemes.
“Our government ensured that every rupee sent from Delhi reaches the intended beneficiary. DBT has stopped the leakages and ensured that welfare funds directly reach the poor,” he said.
