Hydro-Diplomacy by Ashfaq Mahmood

Hydro-Diplomacy: Preventing Water War Between Nuclear-Armed Pakistan and India

Author: Ashfaq Mahmood
Category: International Relations / Water Politics / South Asian Studies
Recommended For:

• Students of International Relations and Political Science

• Civil service aspirants (CSS, PMS)

• Environmental policy analysts

• Diplomats and strategic studies professionals

• Peace and conflict researchers

• South Asia observers and journalists

Key Points 

1. Strategic Importance of Water Sharing
   Explores how water resources—especially the Indus Basin—play a critical role in India-Pakistan relations and the risks of politicization.

2. The Indus Waters Treaty Framework
   Analyzes the historic treaty brokered by the World Bank, its implementation challenges, and its importance in sustaining fragile peace.

3. Risks of Water Conflict Between Nuclear Powers
   Investigates how water disputes could escalate into broader conflict given the nuclear backdrop and mistrust between the two nations.

4. Conflict Prevention Through Diplomacy
   Advocates for diplomatic engagement, trust-building measures, and institutional reforms to manage and resolve future disputes peacefully.

5. Insights from an Experienced Bureaucrat
   Written by a former senior Pakistani civil servant and water expert, offering insider views on water management and bilateral talks.

6. Policy Recommendations for Peace and Sustainability
   Provides actionable solutions and strategies for policymakers to ensure equitable water sharing and regional stability.