Question

Explain the process and basis of re-organisation of states in the Indian Union.

Hint:

The reorganization of states has been crucial in fostering administrative efficiency, promoting unity, and addressing regional demands, especially on linguistic and cultural grounds.

Answer 1

The reorganization of states in India has been an ongoing process aimed at creating administrative units that can better address the needs of their diverse populations. This process is based on historical, linguistic, cultural, and regional factors to ensure administrative efficiency and social harmony. Basis of Reorganization:
1. Linguistic Basis:
The primary basis for the reorganization of states was linguistic, as language is a key cultural and social marker for regional identity. In 1947, there were many diverse linguistic communities, and the formation of states based on language was seen as the best way to address regional aspirations and promote unity.
2. Historical and Cultural Factors:
Many princely states and regions had distinct cultural and historical identities. Some states were created to preserve the legacy of these cultural differences. For example, the formation of Jammu & Kashmir and Goa reflected unique historical circumstances.
3. Administrative Convenience:
The ease of governance was also a critical factor in the reorganization process. Larger states were often split into smaller administrative units for better governance and ease of development.
The Process of Reorganization:
1. The States Reorganisation Act of 1956:
This Act was a major milestone in the reorganization of states in India. It aimed to reorganize the boundaries of Indian states on a linguistic basis. For example, the formation of states like Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra was a direct result of the implementation of this Act.
2. The Creation of New States:
In the years following the States Reorganisation Act, several new states were created to address regional aspirations. Some notable examples include the creation of Haryana (1966), Uttarakhand (2000), Chhattisgarh (2000), and Telangana (2014).
3. Recommendations of Various Committees:
Several committees have played a crucial role in the reorganization process, such as the Dhar Commission (1948), Fazl Ali Commission (1953), and the States Reorganisation Commission (1953-1955). These committees made recommendations based on linguistic and cultural homogeneity.
Conclusion:
The reorganization of states has played a vital role in ensuring a more effective and representative government in India. By organizing states based on linguistic, historical, and administrative factors, India has been able to maintain unity in diversity. However, challenges remain, especially in managing the demands of smaller regions and ensuring equitable development.