The Inter-State Council (ISC) has recently undergone reconstitution, emphasizing its essential role in fostering cooperation and coordination between the Centre and States. As a crucial forum for addressing inter-governmental concerns and ensuring a cohesive approach to governance, the ISC plays a significant part in India’s federal structure. Here’s an exploration of the ISC’s history, composition, and relevance for effective Centre-State collaboration.
Understanding the Inter-State Council (ISC)
Purpose and Importance
The ISC serves as a collaborative platform through which the Centre and States can coordinate on key issues, harmonizing policies and addressing administrative and legislative concerns. Its purpose aligns closely with promoting balanced federalism by providing a space for open dialogue, negotiation, and consensus-building on issues that impact both national and state interests.
Genesis of the ISC
Established under Article 263 of the Constitution of India, the ISC was instituted through a Presidential Order in 1990 following recommendations by the Sarkaria Commission. This commission, tasked with examining Centre-State relations, underscored the need for an institutional mechanism that could foster dialogue and resolve disputes between different levels of government.
Composition of the ISC
The ISC’s structure enables broad participation from both the Union and States. Its members include:
Chairperson: The Prime Minister of India serves as the chair, setting the agenda and guiding discussions.
Members:
Chief Ministers of all States,
Chief Ministers of Union Territories (UTs) with Legislative Assemblies,
Administrators of UTs without Legislative Assemblies,
Six Cabinet-ranked Ministers from the Union Council of Ministers, nominated by the Prime Minister.
This inclusive composition ensures that regional concerns are represented while aligning with national priorities, making the ISC a platform where varied perspectives can be addressed.
Key Functions of the Inter-State Council
The ISC has a wide-ranging mandate designed to support India’s federal structure:
Policy Coordination: By examining and discussing policies affecting both Centre and States, the ISC facilitates consensus-based solutions on issues like law and order, finance, and socio-economic development.
Dispute Resolution: The Council helps to resolve disagreements between the Centre and States, particularly in cases where administrative or jurisdictional overlaps create tension.
Advisory Role: The ISC also advises the government on matters that impact Centre-State relations, which can be highly beneficial in shaping responsive and adaptive policy.
Why is the ISC Relevant Today?
The ISC remains a significant tool for managing Centre-State relations, especially in an era marked by increased demands for federal autonomy. Effective coordination has become essential in addressing issues like environmental policies, economic strategies, and national security concerns. The reconstitution of the ISC also highlights a renewed focus on strengthening cooperative federalism, a core tenet of India’s governance model.
Additional Insights for UPSC Aspirants
The ISC is a key topic for UPSC Civil Services aspirants, especially those preparing for Indian Polity and Governance. It illustrates the balancing act required in a federal system and underscores the Constitution’s framework for maintaining harmony between the Union and States. Understanding the ISC’s functions, history, and recent developments is crucial for grasping the broader picture of Indian federalism and Centre-State dynamics.
Practice Question
Consider the following statements about the Inter-State Council (ISC):
The ISC was constituted under Article 263 of the Indian Constitution based on the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission.
The Prime Minister of India is the chairperson of the ISC.
The Chief Ministers of all Union Territories are permanent members of the ISC.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation: The ISC was indeed constituted under Article 263 of the Indian Constitution following the Sarkaria Commission's recommendation, and the Prime Minister of India chairs the Council. However, only Chief Ministers of Union Territories with Legislative Assemblies and Administrators of those without Assemblies are members, not all Chief Ministers of UTs.
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