Answer: India played a crucial role in forming Bangladesh with the formation of Mukti Bahini in 1971. India was also the first nation to acknowledge Bangladesh as an independent state. Indo-Bangladesh ties are based upon shared history, common heritage, linguistic and cultural bonds, etc.

• Trade: The bilateral trade volume has witnessed substantial growth, fostering economic ties and benefiting both nations. This trade relationship has resulted in increased investment, job creation, and improved connectivity.
• Example, India has emerged as Bangladesh's largest trading partner in South Asia, and Bangladesh is the 4th largest export destination for India.
• Connectivity: Enhanced connectivity between the two countries facilitates trade and people-to-people contact.
• Example, The Maitri Setu Bridge, inaugurated in 2021, over River Feni in Tripura.
• The Chilahati-Haldibari rail link has restored a historic rail connection, further improving cross-border transportation and trade.
• Line of Credit (LoC): The financial assistance has supported the implementation of infrastructure projects and contributed to Bangladesh's socio-economic development.
• Example, one-fourth of India’s LOC is allocated to Bangladesh, specifically in areas such as transport, power, information and communication technology (ICT), and other key sectors.
• High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDPs): These initiatives have improved the quality of life for communities and fostered people-to-people bonds between the two nations.
• Example, India has undertaken several High Impact Community Development Projects in Bangladesh, focusing on crucial areas like education, healthcare, water management, cultural exchanges, and infrastructure development.
• Energy cooperation: India helps address Bangladesh's energy demands and promote regional energy security. This cooperation has laid the foundation for further collaboration in renewable energy and power transmission projects.
• Example, Bangladesh imports 1160 MW of electricity from India
• Military Cooperation: Robust military cooperation enhances interoperability, strengthens defense capabilities, and promotes mutual understanding and trust between the armed forces of both countries.
• Example,  joint exercises such as Exercise Sampriti (Army) and Exercise Milan (Navy)
• Resolution of bilateral issues amicably: Successful resolution of the long-standing border dispute, leading to improved bilateral relations and enhanced security along the border.
• Example, Land Boundary Agreement, 2015

• Teesta River Dispute: The Teesta River dispute arose from Bangladesh's dissatisfaction with its insufficient water allocation. However, the signing of a treaty in 2011 between India and Bangladesh did not materialise, mainly due to opposition from the West Bengal government.
• Illegal Migration: This issue involves both refugees and economic migrants, leading to socio-economic and political ramifications in the border states.
• Drug Smuggling and Human Trafficking: Instances of drug smuggling, poaching, and human trafficking across borders undermine security and socio-economic development.
• Terrorism: The border region faces a vulnerability to terrorist infiltration, with various extremist groups aiming to expand their influence.

○  Example, The presence of groups like Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) underscores the importance of close cooperation in intelligence sharing, counterterrorism operations, and border security.

• China Factor: China's involvement in Bangladesh through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) raises concerns for India's national security. China's military equipment procurement by Bangladesh and its pressure to undertake infrastructure projects pose challenges.

○  Example, China is also pressuring Bangladesh to dredge the entire course of the Teesta River and use the reclaimed land to build infrastructure on loans from China. This is being done because India-Bangladesh don’t have a river agreement on Teesta.

The current relationship between India and Bangladesh can aptly be described as a 'Shonali Adhyay' or golden chapter,  in their bilateral ties. To safeguard their interests in the region, both countries should leverage the shared values of openness, mutual trust, cooperation, and mutual respect.