Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories in India has been a continuous process, deeply intertwined with the nation’s evolving political landscape and administrative needs. Beginning with the consolidation of British power in the 19th century, the process accelerated post-independence, driven by linguistic, cultural, and administrative considerations. Initially, the British focused on consolidating control and creating administrative units for efficient governance. However, the demand for reorganization based on linguistic identity gained momentum in the mid-20th century, culminating in the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, which laid the foundation for the modern map of India. This ongoing process reflects the dynamic nature of Indian federalism and the constant negotiation between unity and diversity.
Early Phase: British Consolidation (Mid-19th Century – 1947)
The British initially focused on consolidating their control through administrative divisions. The Regulating Act of 1773 and the Pitt’s India Act of 1784 established a framework for centralized control. Provinces like Bengal, Madras, Bombay, and the United Provinces were created primarily for revenue collection and administrative efficiency. The principle of ‘divide and rule’ also played a role in shaping these divisions. The creation of Princely States further complicated the administrative map. The Government of India Act, 1935, further refined provincial structures, but the fundamental aim remained administrative control rather than reflecting socio-cultural realities.
Post-Independence Reorganization (1947 – 1956)
Immediately after independence, the integration of Princely States and the need for a more rational administrative structure became paramount. The initial approach was pragmatic, focusing on consolidating territories. However, demands for linguistic states began to emerge strongly. The Dar Commission (1948) was appointed to examine the issue of reorganization, but it recommended against immediate linguistic reorganization, fearing it would exacerbate regionalism. However, the protests, particularly in Andhra Pradesh, forced the government’s hand.
The States Reorganisation Act, 1956, was a landmark legislation. It reorganized states on linguistic lines, creating 14 states and 6 Union Territories. This Act largely followed the recommendations of the Fazal Ali Commission (1953-55), which advocated for linguistic reorganization with some caveats to protect linguistic minorities. Andhra Pradesh was the first state to be formed on a linguistic basis in 1953.
Further Reorganization (1956 – 2000)
The process of reorganization didn’t stop with the 1956 Act. Subsequent decades witnessed further adjustments:
- 1960: Bombay Reorganisation Act – Split Bombay into Maharashtra and Gujarat.
- 1966: Punjab Reorganisation Act – Split Punjab into Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh (Himachal Pradesh became a full state in 1971).
- 1970: North-Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act – Created Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- 1987: Arunachal Pradesh became a full state.
- 2000: Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand were carved out of Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh respectively.
These reorganizations were often driven by regional aspirations, administrative convenience, and socio-economic factors. The creation of smaller states was often seen as a way to improve governance and address regional imbalances.
Recent Trends and Challenges (2000 – Present)
The demand for smaller states continues, with movements in regions like Vidarbha (Maharashtra) and Gorkhaland (West Bengal). The creation of Telangana in 2014, after decades of struggle, demonstrates the enduring relevance of statehood movements. However, the creation of new states also raises concerns about administrative viability, resource allocation, and potential for inter-state disputes. The debate over the criteria for statehood – population size, economic viability, cultural identity – remains ongoing.
| Act/Commission | Year | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Regulating Act | 1773 | Established centralized control; created Governor-General in Council. |
| States Reorganisation Act | 1956 | Reorganized states on linguistic lines; created 14 states and 6 UTs. |
| Punjab Reorganisation Act | 1966 | Split Punjab into Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. |
| Telangana Act | 2014 | Created the state of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh. |
Conclusion
The reorganization of states and territories in India has been a complex and dynamic process, reflecting the nation’s evolving political, social, and administrative landscape. From the initial consolidation under British rule to the linguistic reorganization post-independence and the more recent creation of new states, the process has been driven by a multitude of factors. While reorganization has often addressed legitimate aspirations and improved governance, it also presents challenges related to administrative viability and inter-state relations. The ongoing debate over statehood underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers both the benefits and potential drawbacks of further reorganization, ensuring inclusive development and national unity.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.