On 6th June 2015, India and Bangladesh signed the historic land boundary agreement, which resolved one of the most complicated border disputes that had been simmering between the two countries since their independence in 1947. One of the crucial components of this agreement was the inclusion of the Enclave Exchange Program that was aimed at resolving the issue of enclaves, otherwise known as chhit mahals or pasha enclaves, that existed in the border areas.

Enclaves refer to parcels of land that are entirely surrounded by the territory of another nation or state. In the case of India and Bangladesh, there were 162 enclaves in India, housing around 37,000 people, while Bangladesh had 111 enclaves, accommodating around 14,000 people. These enclaves were isolated from their respective countries and were not subject to basic amenities, such as healthcare, education, and other public services.

Under the Enclave Exchange Program, both countries agreed to exchange the enclaves that were located within their territories. India agreed to transfer 51 of its enclaves to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh agreed to transfer 111 enclaves to India. The transfer was completed on 31st July 2015, and the inhabitants of these enclaves were given the option to stay in their respective locations and acquire citizenship of the country they were in or move to the other country.

The exchange of enclaves has been lauded as a significant milestone in the relations between India and Bangladesh. The agreement has brought an end to the long-standing issue of stranded people living in these isolated enclaves, providing them with the basic amenities and allowing them to access services that were previously unavailable. The exchange has also facilitated improved relations between the two countries, as it has created a more defined and contiguous border along the 4096-kilometre India-Bangladesh border.

Moreover, the enclave exchange program has not only impacted the lives of people living in enclaves but also affected the governments of the two countries in a positive way. It has made it easier for the governments to maintain law and order in the territories that were earlier difficult to reach, and it has paved the way for better cooperation between the countries, promoting trade, and facilitating better cross-border relations.

In conclusion, the enclave agreement between India and Bangladesh has been a historic landmark in the relations between the two countries. The agreement has brought an end to the long-standing issue of stranded people living in these isolated enclaves, along with promoting better cross-border relations by facilitating trade and cooperation between the countries. The people living in the enclaves have been provided with basic necessities, and they can now enjoy the privileges of citizenship. The agreement was a remarkable step taken by both nations towards resolving a long-pending dispute, and it stands as a testament to the power of diplomacy and negotiations.