Day 6 Mains Questions – Ace Answer Writing Program

Question 1: Discuss the implications of reorganization of states on tribal communities in India. How has state reorganization addressed or exacerbated their issues? (10 Marks, 150 words)

Introduction

State reorganization in India aimed at administrative efficiency and linguistic homogeneity has had significant implications for tribal communities. Article 244 of the Indian Constitution provides special protections for tribal areas under the Fifth and Sixth Schedules.

Body

Impact on Tribal Communities –

1. Administrative Efficiency: Reorganization has led to better administrative access, but often many tribal areas remain underserved [e.g. Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh].
2. Linguistic and Cultural Identity: Preservation of tribal languages and cultures has been inconsistent, sometimes leading to assimilation pressures [e.g. Telangana].
3. Land Rights Issues: Redistribution and recognition of land rights have varied, often exacerbating conflicts over land in some areas. [e.g. Narmada Bachao Andolan].
4. Development Projects: Increased development projects in reorganized states have led to displacement without adequate rehabilitation [e.g. Kaleshwaram Project].
5. Political Representation: While some states have seen improved tribal representation, others continue to face marginalization in state politics [e.g. Odisha].

Addressing or Exacerbating Issues –

1. Creation of Tribal States: States like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh were created to address tribal issues, providing focused development [e.g. separate ministries].
2. Governance and Autonomy: Autonomous councils under the Sixth Schedule have been established, yet effectiveness varies [e.g. Bodoland Territorial Council].
3. Economic Opportunities: New states have provided economic opportunities, but benefits often bypass tribals due to corruption and inefficiency [e.g. mining in Jharkhand].
4. Social Services: Access to health and education has improved in some regions, but disparity remains high [e.g. healthcare in Chhattisgarh].
5. Exploitation and Displacement: Increased industrialization has led to exploitation and displacement, worsening tribal hardships [e.g. POSCO project in Odisha].

Conclusion

The reorganization of states has had mixed impacts on tribal communities, addressing some issues while exacerbating others. Balancing development and preservation of tribal rights is crucial for inclusive growth in India. The relevant broader topic is sustainable and inclusive development, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Value Addition:

• Bhuria Committee: Recommended the extension of provisions of the Fifth and Sixth Schedules to more tribal areas.
• PESA Act (1996): Empowered gram sabhas in tribal areas to manage resources.
• Tribal Sub-Plan: Allocates funds specifically for tribal welfare in various states.

Question 2: Discuss the challenges faced by India in integrating princely states post-independence. How did the government address these challenges, and what were the long-term implications? (10 Marks, 150 words)

Introduction

Post-independent India faced the complex task of integrating over 550 princely states into the Indian Union, which was later governed by Articles 294-295 of the Indian Constitution.

Body

Challenges Faced by India in integrating Princely states post-independence –

1. Diverse Allegiances: Many princely states had diverse political allegiances, posing difficulties in unification [e.g. Hyderabad].
2. Military Resistance: Some rulers resisted integration militarily, creating law and order issues [e.g. Junagadh].
3. Economic Disparities: Varying levels of economic development across states led to challenges in policy uniformity [e.g. Mysore vs. Bhopal].
4. Cultural Differences: Integrating regions with distinct cultural identities required sensitive handling [e.g. Manipur].
5. Political Negotiations: Ensuring a smooth transition required intricate political negotiations [e.g. Sardar Patel’s diplomacy].

Government Measures –

1. Instrument of Accession: States were persuaded to sign the Instrument of Accession, ceding defense, communication, and foreign affairs to India [e.g. Kashmir].
2. Military Action: In cases of resistance, military intervention was employed to ensure integration [e.g. Operation Polo in Hyderabad].
3. Economic Packages: Special economic packages were provided to integrate states economically [e.g. merger of Travancore].
4. Cultural Autonomy: States were promised cultural autonomy to maintain their unique identities [e.g. Nagaland].
5. Administrative Reorganization: States were reorganized based on linguistic and administrative lines to ensure better governance [e.g. States Reorganization Act, 1956].

Long-Term Implications –

1. Political Stability: Successful integration led to political stability and national unity [e.g. smooth functioning of democracy].
2. Economic Integration: Unified economic policies facilitated national growth and development [e.g. Five-Year Plans].
3. Cultural Diversity: Preservation of cultural identities within the federal structure promoted unity in diversity [e.g. linguistic states].
4. Strategic Security: Ensured territorial integrity and strategic security of India [e.g. control over borders].
5. Federal Structure: Strengthened the federal structure, balancing state and central powers [e.g. Union-State relations].

Conclusion

The integration of princely states post-independence was a significant achievement, ensuring India’s unity and stability. The process showcased India’s diplomatic acumen and strategic vision, aligning with the broader theme of national integration and sovereignty.

Value Addition:

• V.P. Menon: Key aide in negotiating with princely states.
• Integration of Junagadh: Utilized a plebiscite to determine the will of the people.
• Constitutional Provisions: Articles 294-295 for property and assets transfer.
• Operation Polo: Military action for Hyderabad’s integration.
• States Reorganization Commission (1953): Recommended reorganization based on linguistic lines.

Question 3: Examine the factors that have led to the demand for smaller states in India post-independence. What are the pros and cons of creating smaller states in terms of governance and regional development? (15 Marks, 250 words)

Introduction

The demand for smaller states in India post-independence has been driven by various socio-economic and political factors like the demands for Purvanchal and Vidarbha. Article 3 of the Indian Constitution allows Parliament to form new states.

Body

Factors Leading to Demand for smaller states in India –

1. Administrative Efficiency: Smaller states are perceived to offer better administrative efficiency and governance [e.g. Uttarakhand].
2. Regional Development: Uneven regional development has fuelled demands for separate states to ensure focused growth [e.g. Telangana].
3. Cultural Identity: Preservation of distinct cultural identities and languages has driven statehood demands [e.g. Gorkhaland].
4. Political Marginalization: Regions feeling politically marginalized in larger states seek autonomy for better representation [e.g. Vidarbha].
5. Economic Disparities: Economic imbalances within states lead to demands for smaller states for equitable resource distribution [e.g. Jharkhand].

Pros of Creating Smaller States –

1. Improved Governance: Smaller states enable more responsive and accountable governance [e.g. Chhattisgarh].
2. Focused Development: Allows for tailored development policies suited to the specific needs of the region [e.g. Sikkim].
3. Better Resource Management: Efficient management and utilization of local resources [e.g. Uttarakhand’s tourism development].
4. Enhanced Representation: Increased political representation and empowerment of local communities [e.g. Mizoram].
5. Administrative Decentralization: Decentralizes administrative functions, leading to better public service delivery [e.g. Himachal Pradesh].

Cons of Creating Smaller States –

1. Economic Viability: Smaller states may face financial constraints due to limited revenue generation [e.g. Nagaland].
2. Increased Bureaucracy: Creation of new administrative structures may lead to increased bureaucracy [e.g. Chhattisgarh].
3. Political Instability: Risk of political instability and frequent changes in government [e.g. Jharkhand].
4. Inter-State Disputes: Potential for increased inter-state disputes over resources and boundaries [e.g. water disputes between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh].
5. Developmental Imbalances: May lead to developmental imbalances and neglect of other regions [e.g. residual Andhra Pradesh post-bifurcation].

Conclusion

While the creation of smaller states can enhance governance and regional development, it also poses challenges related to economic viability and political stability. Balancing these pros and cons is crucial for achieving equitable and sustainable development in India.

Value Addition:

• Fazal Ali Commission (1953): Recommended reorganization of states on linguistic basis.
• S.R. Bommai Case (1994): Reinforced federal principles in state formation.
• Reorganization of Andhra Pradesh (2014): Creation of Telangana for addressing regional imbalances.
• Vidarbha Demand: Ongoing demand citing neglect by Maharashtra’s central administration.
• Gorkhaland Movement: Cultural identity and administrative efficiency driving statehood demand.