Beyond the Border: Exploring the Complex Dynamics of Water Tensions between India and China and their Impact on People

Abstract

Abstract The Himalayan waters are a significant resource for both India and China, whose economic and population growth is putting a strain on their water resources. A number of rivers originate in the Himalayas, with the Brahmaputra being one of the most important water resources crossing the two countries' disputed boundary. This would eventually have an impact on the population that is solely reliant on this water source. Given that the two countries involved are the world's most populous and second most populous, the water wars debate may be closely tied to per capita availability. If the population rises, but water supplies stay constant, water availability will surely decline, negatively impacting people's living conditions. This paper will examine the research through a content analysis of interviews conducted with experts from both India and China, as well as reports from primary and secondary sources, and evaluate how water tensions are impacting people’s livelihoods. Lastly, it will make recommendations for stronger cooperation between the two countries.