Punjab and Haryana clash over SYL canal dispute. Rajiv Longowal Accord details reviewed for #UPSC prep.

Let’s talk about the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute between Punjab and Haryana and how the Rajiv Longowal Accord comes into play. #UPSCprep

1. What is the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute between Punjab and Haryana?
   The dispute revolves around the construction of a canal to transfer water from the Sutlej River in Punjab to the Yamuna River in Haryana, as per the agreement reached between the two states in the 1980s.

2. What is the Rajiv Longowal Accord?
   The Rajiv Longowal Accord, signed in 1985, was an agreement between the governments of Punjab and Haryana to resolve various issues, including the construction of the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal.

3. Why did the construction of the canal become a contentious issue between the two states?
   Punjab opposed the construction of the canal, citing concerns about its water resources being diverted to Haryana which would impact its agriculture sector. Haryana, on the other hand, argued that it had the right to the water as per the agreement.

4. What was the outcome of the dispute?
   Despite several attempts to resolve the issue, the construction of the canal was repeatedly stalled due to protests and legal battles. The issue remains unresolved till date.

5. How has the dispute impacted the relations between Punjab and Haryana?
   The dispute has strained the relations between the two states, leading to tensions and conflicts over water sharing and other issues.

6. What are the legal implications of the dispute?
   The issue has been taken to the Supreme Court multiple times, with both states presenting their arguments and seeking a resolution to the dispute.

7. What are the proposed solutions to the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute?
   Various proposals have been made to resolve the dispute, including arbitration, renegotiation of the agreement, and finding alternative solutions to water sharing between the two states.

8. How does the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute impact the overall water management and agricultural practices in Punjab and Haryana?
   The dispute has highlighted the challenges of water management and distribution in the region, impacting agricultural practices and livelihoods of farmers in both states. It also underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to water sharing and management in the region.

The Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute between Punjab and Haryana has been a longstanding issue that dates back to the partition of India in 1947. The dispute revolves around the sharing of river waters between the two states, with Haryana claiming its rightful share as per the riparian principle. The construction of the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal was proposed as a way to transfer surplus water from the Beas and Sutlej rivers to Haryana, which has been facing water shortages for agricultural and domestic use.

The issue gained prominence in the 1980s when the Rajiv Longowal Accord was signed between the central government, Punjab, and Haryana to address various issues, including the sharing of river waters. The Accord proposed the construction of the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal to transfer water to Haryana, which was opposed by Punjab on the grounds that it would deprive the state of its rightful share of water. The construction of the canal was halted due to protests and legal battles by Punjab, leading to a prolonged legal and political battle over the issue.

The dispute escalated in 2016 when the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Haryana and directed Punjab to construct the remaining portion of the canal. This led to protests and violence in Punjab, with the state government refusing to comply with the court’s orders. The central government intervened in the matter to mediate between the two states and find a resolution to the long-standing dispute.

Efforts are being made to find a mutually acceptable solution to the issue, with both states being urged to set aside their differences and work towards a common goal of equitable distribution of river waters. The central government has also been working with the states to find alternatives to the canal project, such as exploring other mechanisms for the sharing of water resources. It is hoped that a fair and lasting solution can be reached to end the Sutlej Yamuna Link Canal dispute and ensure a harmonious relationship between Punjab and Haryana. Only through cooperation and dialogue can the two states move forward and address the challenges of water scarcity and agricultural sustainability in the region.

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