Explain the genesis of the Inter-State Council and discuss its relevance in the context of Centre-State…

Question

Explain the genesis of the Inter-State Council and discuss its relevance in the context of Centre-State and Inter-State coordination and cooperation in India.

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

The Inter-State Council was set up in 1990 under Article 263 on the Sarkaria Commission's recommendation, chaired by the Prime Minister with all Chief Ministers, and remains a relevant forum for Centre-State and inter-state dialogue. However, it has met only 11 times and its recommendations are non-binding.

**Introduction**

The Inter-State Council (ISC), established in 1990 under Article 263, is a constitutional mechanism to enhance coordination between the Union and States and among States themselves, addressing India’s complex federal challenges.

**Genesis of the Inter-State Council**

1. **Constitutional Backing and Sarkaria Commission**: Article 263 empowers the President to form the ISC; the Sarkaria Commission (1983-88) recommended a permanent council to promote cooperative federalism, resulting in its establishment by Presidential Order in 1990.

2. **Composition and Limitations**: Chaired by the Prime Minister, including Chief Ministers and Union Ministers, the ISC’s role is recommendatory as the Presidential Order excluded dispute adjudication, a gap noted by the Punchhi Commission.

**Relevance in Centre-State Coordination**

1. **Dialogue and Trust Building**: The ISC serves as a forum for Centre-State dialogue on fiscal policies like GST and social welfare, reducing mistrust, as seen in ==Andhra Pradesh’s== Special Category Status discussions.

2. **Challenges and Recommendations**: With only 11 meetings since 1990 and non-binding recommendations, the ISC’s effectiveness is limited; the Punchhi Commission recommended institutional strengthening with an independent secretariat.

**Relevance in Inter-State Coordination**

1. **Inter-State Dialogue and Policy Harmonisation**: The ISC can facilitate discussions on inter-state issues such as Krishna and Godavari water disputes (now handled by the Apex Council under the AP Reorganisation Act and tribunals) and promote coordinated regional development like the Visakhapatnam-Chennai corridor.

2. **Limitations and Complementarity**: Its lack of binding authority and infrequent meetings reduce dispute resolution effectiveness; while Article 262 tribunals and zonal councils exist, the ISC’s broader mandate remains underutilized.

**Conclusion**

The ISC is crucial for managing India’s federal challenges but requires reforms to strengthen its role in Centre-State and inter-state cooperation.

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సమాఖ్య నిర్మాణం, గవర్నర్ మరియు అధికారాల పంపిణీ17 questions

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