Inter-State Council (ISC)
- Formed under Article 263 of the Constitution to foster Centre-State and Inter-State cooperation.
- Recommended by the Sarkaria Commission (1988) and established in 1990 via Presidential Order.
- Functions:
- Discusses and recommends policies for Centre-State and Inter-State coordination.
- Investigates disputes and ensures smooth governance.
- Composition:
- Chairperson: Prime Minister.
- Members include:
- Chief Ministers of States and UTs with Legislative Assemblies.
- Administrators of UTs without Legislative Assemblies.
- Six Union Cabinet Ministers (nominated by the PM).
- Amendments in 1990 and 1996 added provisions for Governors (in President’s rule) and permanent invitees.
- A Standing Committee, led by the Home Minister, manages ongoing consultations.
- Secretariat:
- The Inter-State Council Secretariat (ISCS) in New Delhi was established in 1991.
- Oversees secretarial functions of Zonal Councils since 2011.
Benefits of the ISC
- Enhances cooperative federalism and prevents Union-State dominance.
- Builds policy legitimacy and reduces friction through consensus.
- Balances constitutional frameworks during critical reforms (e.g., GST, demonetization).
Challenges faced by the ISC
- Infrequent Meetings:
- Only 11 meetings since 1990; last meeting in 2016, despite a mandate for three annual meetings.
- Non-Binding Nature:
- Recommendations are advisory, limiting enforcement and impact.
- Lack of robust follow-up mechanisms hinders implementation.
- Political Dynamics:
- Divergent ideologies between Union and State governments may affect consensus-building.
Reforms Needed for ISC Effectiveness
- Strengthen Legal Framework:
- Amend Article 263 to enhance ISC’s mandate, as suggested by the Punchhi Commission (2010).
- Regular Meetings:
- Revive mandate for consistent and timely meetings to ensure continuity.
- Agenda Setting:
- Focus on key issues like water disputes, infrastructure, and economic cooperation.
- Technology Integration:
- Use digital platforms for communication, data sharing, and streamlined decision-making.
The ISC is pivotal for India’s federal framework, but it needs evolution into a proactive, empowered body. Strengthening its mandate, ensuring regular meetings, and adopting reforms will be vital for fostering deeper Centre-State cooperation and addressing governance challenges.
