Key features of the land deal

The 2011 Protocol to the 1974 Land Boundary Agreement will bring immense benefits for both Bangladesh and India. The major features of the LBA are as follows:

* This is a mutually acceptable and durable deal that paves way for settlement of the land boundary issues prevailing for over six decades.

* It takes into consideration the situation on the ground and the wishes of the people.

* It takes into account the views of the four Indian State Governments concerned -- West Bengal, Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya -- and has their written consent.

* The exchange of enclaves will mitigate major humanitarian problems as the residents in the enclaves and others on their behalf have often complained of the absence of basic amenities and facilities.

* The settlement of Adverse Possessions will lead to tranquility and peace along the border.

* The LBA and its Protocol provides for a comprehensive package solution based on "give and take" on both sides.

* It represents a permanent solution to a decades-old issue.

* The newly demarcated boundaries are a fixed boundary, thereby adding to certainty regarding the future.

* A settled boundary reduces friction, helps neighbours consolidate mutually beneficial exchanges and promotes confidence in building better relations.

* It paves way for closer engagement and mutually beneficial relations between India and Bangladesh and in the region as well.

* This helps on issues of strategic concerns, including security cooperation and denial of sanctuary to elements inimical to India and Bangladesh.

* While land will be exchanged, the agreement does not envisage the displacement of populations.

* It ensures that the India-Bangladesh boundary is permanently settled and there should be no more differences in interpretation, regardless of the government in power.