Historical Background of the Indus Waters Treaty The Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was signed on 19th September 1960 between India and Pakistan, with the World Bank playing the role of a broker and guarantor. The roots of the treaty lie in the post-partition water disputes that emerged between the two countries. The partition of British India in 1947 divided not only the people and land but also the natural resources, including the vast Indus river system. The Indus river system comprises six major rivers: the Indus, Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej. Most of these rivers originate in India and flow into Pakistan, making India the upper riparian state. Initial tensions arose when India temporarily halted water supply to Pakistan in April 1948, following the lapse of the Standstill Agreement. This prompted both countries to seek a long-term solution under international mediation. After years of technical negotiations and diplomatic talks, the treaty was signed by Indian Pri...