Mains Answer Writing - 22 Aug, 2026

GS2

Indian Polity

15 marks

The recent Southern Zonal Council meeting has highlighted the continuing importance of institutional dialogue in addressing inter-State disputes. Examine the role of Zonal Councils in strengthening cooperative federalism in India and discuss the challenges limiting their effectiveness.

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Tips for your answer

Present Zonal Councils as preventive federal institutions - their greatest value lies in resolving differences politically and administratively before they become prolonged legal or constitutional disputes.
Remember States Reorganisation Act, 1956; five Zonal Councils; advisory nature; Union Home Minister as Chairman; and the 31st Southern Zonal Council held at Mahabalipuram on 20 August 2026.
Do not confuse Zonal Councils with the Inter-State Council under Article 263. Zonal Councils are statutory bodies under the States Reorganisation Act, whereas the Inter-State Council is a constitutional mechanism.

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