New Delhi [India]: Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, emphasized on Thursday that India is closely monitoring China’s plans to develop hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra River to safeguard the interests of Indian citizens living downstream.
In a written reply to a query by Rajya Sabha member Fauzia Khan, Singh stated that the government is vigilant about any developments related to the river and is taking necessary preventive and corrective measures.
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="1080px" width="1920px" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
Concerns Over China’s Mega Dam
The proposed dam, located on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet (upper reaches of the Brahmaputra), is expected to generate 300 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, making it the world’s largest hydropower project. However, India is concerned about the potential impact on water availability, silt deposition, and biodiversity in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
“Government carefully monitors all developments relating to the Brahmaputra River, including plans by China to develop hydropower projects, and takes necessary measures to protect our interests,” Singh said.
India Raises Concerns with China
India has conveyed its concerns to China, stressing the importance of transparency and consultation with downstream countries. Following China’s announcement of the mega dam project on December 30, 2024, India formally registered its concerns. The issue was also discussed during the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Beijing on January 26-27, 2025.
Institutional Dialogue and Expert-Level Mechanism
Issues related to trans-border rivers are discussed through an Expert Level Mechanism (ELM), established in 2006, and diplomatic channels. Singh highlighted that India, as a lower riparian state, has consistently conveyed its concerns to China and urged them to ensure that downstream interests are not harmed.
“Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed under the ambit of an institutionalised Expert Level Mechanism,” Singh added.
Resumption of Hydrological Data Sharing
During recent bilateral discussions, India and China agreed to hold an early meeting to discuss the resumption of hydrological data sharing and enhance cooperation on trans-border rivers. This data is crucial for flood management and assessing downstream water availability.
India’s Counterplan: 10 GW Hydropower Project
To mitigate potential impacts from China’s dam, India is planning a 10 GW hydropower project in Arunachal Pradesh. This project aims to ensure water security, flood control, and regional economic growth.
The Brahmaputra River is vital for agriculture, fisheries, and inland transport in India’s northeastern states, making it imperative for India to safeguard its interests against any adverse developments upstream.
