Why in News? 

India has taken a series of strong measures following the Pahalgam terror attack, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, 1960. 

Indus Water Treaty (IWT)  

• The Indus Waters Treaty was signed on September 19, 1960, between India and Pakistan, with the World Bank acting as a mediator. 
• The treaty establishes a framework for cooperation and information sharing regarding the use of water from the Indus River and its five tributaries: Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Jhelum, and Chenab. 

Key Provisions 

• Water Sharing 
  • The treaty divides the waters of the Indus River System into two categories, 
    • Western rivers (Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum) are allocated to Pakistan for unrestricted use. 
    • Eastern rivers (Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej) are allocated to India for unrestricted use. 
  • 80% of the water is allocated to Pakistan, while 20% is allocated to India. 
• Permanent Indus Commission 
  • Both countries are required to establish a Permanent Indus Commission, which meets annually to discuss water-related issues. 
• Dispute Resolution 
  • The treaty outlines a three-step dispute resolution process. 
    • Disputes can be addressed through the Permanent Indus Commission. 
    • If unresolved, disputes can be escalated to inter-government level. 
    • If still unresolved, a Neutral Expert appointed by the World Bank can intervene. Further appeals can be taken to a Court of Arbitration established by the World Bank.