Parliament replies digest (9-13 Feb 2026): Ganga treaty, EU FTA, fishermen
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What happened
- The India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty of 12 December 1996 expires in December 2026; renewal talks have not started [MEA, Lok Sabha reply].
- At the 16th India-EU Summit on 27 January 2026, India secured preferential access for over 99% of merchandise exports [MEA, Lok Sabha reply].
- Pakistan acknowledged 199 Indian fishermen in custody on 1 January 2026; 183 have completed sentences [MEA, Rajya Sabha reply].
Background
- Parliament rose for the recess after 13 February [sansad.in].
Why it matters
- The Ganga treaty renewal is a live issue for 2026; West Bengal’s water needs are part of India’s position [MEA].
How to use this in Mains
- As per MEA (2026-02-13): the India-Bangladesh Ganga Water Treaty of 12 December 1996 expires in December 2026; renewal talks have not started.
- The Ganga treaty renewal is a live issue for 2026; West Bengal's water needs are part of India's position [MEA].
Quotable data pointAt the 16th India-EU Summit on 27 January 2026, India secured preferential access for over 99% of merchandise exports.
MEA: LS Q2405 Ganga Water Sharing Treaty, 13 Feb 2026
Exam angle
UPSC
Prelims: Ganga treaty year. · Mains: water sharing with Bangladesh.
Practice MCQs
Original practice questions (not PYQs).
Practice · UPSC
The Ganga Water Treaty with Bangladesh was signed in
Answer (b) & explanation
MEA release.
Go deeper
ExplainerIndus Waters Treaty, 1960: The Indus River System, How the Waters Were Divided, India’s Rights, Kishenganga and Ratle Disputes, and the 2025 Abeyance (UPSC Notes + PYQs)ExplainerIndia-Pakistan Relations: Partition, Kashmir, Four Wars, Simla Agreement, Indus Waters Treaty, Cross-Border Terrorism and Operation Sindoor (UPSC Notes + PYQs)
Official source: MEA: LS Q2405 Ganga Water Sharing Treaty, 13 Feb 2026
facts from cited sources only; faculty review pending