Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

Nominated Members to the Rajya Sabha

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Parliament & State Legislatures

Why in the News?

The President of India has nominated Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Ujjwal Nikam, C. Sadanandan Master, and Meenakshi Jain to the Rajya Sabha.

Nominated Members to the Rajya Sabha

About Nominated Members to the Rajya Sabha:

Number and Tenure: The President of India nominates 12 members to the Rajya Sabha for a six-year term.
Purpose of Nomination: This provision is meant to honor individuals with exceptional contributions in the fields of arts, literature, science, and social service.
Constitutional Basis: This right is granted to the President under the Fourth Schedule, in accordance with Articles 4(1) and 80(2) of the Constitution of India.
Constitutional Provisions for Nominated Members:
- Article 80(1)(a): Provides for nomination of 12 members to the Rajya Sabha by the President.
- Article 80(3): Specifies that the nominees must have special knowledge or practical experience in one or more of the following fields: Literature; Science; Art; Social service.

Composition of the Rajya Sabha:

Total Strength: The current strength of the Rajya Sabha is 245 members, comprising:
- 233 elected members representing States and Union Territories
- 12 nominated members by the President
Permanent Nature: The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
Biennial Retirement: One-third members retire every two years, and elections are held to fill the vacant seats.

Powers and Privileges of Nominated Members:

Equal Rights in House Proceedings: Nominated members enjoy all powers, privileges, and immunities of an elected Member of Parliament.
Participation in Proceedings: They can take part in all debates, discussions, and committees in the House.
Voting Rights Exceptions:
- They cannot vote in the election of the President of India.
- They can vote in the election of the Vice President.
Political Affiliation Provision: According to Article 99, a nominated member is given six months to join a political party after being nominated.

[UPSC 2014] Consider the following statements:

1. The Chairman and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are not the members of that House. 2. While the nominated members of the two Houses of the Parliament have no voting right in the presidential election, they have the right to vote in the election of the Vice President.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Specie in news: Lion-Tailed Macaque

Prelims Only Species | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

The National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has granted approval for diverting 142.76 hectares of forest land in Sharavathi Valley Lion-Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary, Karnataka.

About Lion-Tailed Macaque:

Scientific Classification: The Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus), also known as the Wanderoo or Bearded Monkey, is an primate species endemic to the Western Ghats of India.
Distribution: It is found primarily in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
Physical Characteristics: Recognized by a silver-white mane surrounding a black face and a lion-like tuft at the end of its tail, the body is covered in glossy black fur, and both sexes look similar.
Habitat and Behaviour
- Preferences: The species inhabits tropical evergreen rainforests, and is also found in monsoon forests and shola-grassland ecosystems.
- Habitat: It is arboreal (tree-dwelling) and diurnal (active during the day).
- Elevation Range: Typically lives at altitudes between 600 and 1,800 metres above sea level.
- Human Avoidance: Known for being shy, it tends to avoid human contact, staying high in the forest canopy.
- Social Structure: Lives in social groups of 8 to 20 individuals, usually led by a dominant male.
Behaviour:
- Dietary Habits: Primarily frugivorous, eating fruits, but also consumes leaves, stems, flowers, buds, fungi, and occasionally insects and small animals.
- Communication System: Possesses a rich vocal communication system with over 17 distinct vocalizations.
- Territorial Behavior: Males use loud calls to mark territory and warn intruders.
Conservation Status:

- IUCN Status: Classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
- Legal Protection: Appendix I of CITES; Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

Population and Conservation Efforts:

- Population: It is estimated at around only 2,500 individuals.
- Key Protected Area: The Sharavathi Valley Lion-Tailed Macaque Wildlife Sanctuary in Karnataka hosts the largest known population in any protected area, with around 700 individuals.
Ecological Importance:
- Serves as an indicator species for rainforest health.
- Plays a vital role in seed dispersal, contributing to forest regeneration.

[UPSC 2023] Consider the following fauna:

1. Lion-tailed Macaque 2. Malabar Civet 3. Sambar Deer

How many of the above are generally nocturnal or most active after sunset?

Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) All three (d) None

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Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Revising Guidelines to declare Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZ)

Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

The Standing Committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has decided to review and revise the 2011 guidelines on the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs) around wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.

What are Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)?

Overview: ESZs, also called Ecologically Fragile Areas (EFAs), are areas notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) around Protected Areas (PAs) like national parks and wildlife sanctuaries.
Purpose:
- Act as “shock absorbers” to protect areas by regulating potentially harmful activities.
- Serve as transition zones from highly protected to less protected ecosystems.
- Help conserve biodiversity, maintain landscape connectivity, and prevent fragmentation of habitats.
Legal Basis:
- Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, particularly Section 3(2)(v).
- Rule 5(1) of Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986.
Wildlife Conservation Strategy, 2002: Recommended declaring 10 km radius around PAs as default ESZ.
Demarcation Process:
- ESZ boundaries vary in width based on ecological sensitivity and ground realities.
- Factors considered: species presence, migration routes, landscape linkage, human settlements, etc.
Activity Zonation:
- Prohibited: Commercial mining, polluting industries, major hydro projects, wood logging.
- Regulated: Tree felling, large-scale agriculture change, road widening, tourism infrastructure.
- Permitted: Rainwater harvesting, organic farming, green energy use.
Present Status:
- 347 final notifications issued.
- Where no ESZ is notified, a default 10-km ESZ is applicable (SC 2022 ruling).

2011 Guidelines on ESZs:

Issued by MoEFCC to standardize and guide the process of ESZ declaration.
Key Features:

- Emphasized flexibility and site-specific demarcation.
- Classified activities into permitted, regulated, prohibited.
- Directed preparation of a Zonal Master Plan (ZMP) within 2 years of ESZ notification.
- Called for community involvement, scientific input, and buffer management.

Recent Context:

Reasons Behind: Revision One-size-fits-all (10-km blanket rule) is not effective:
- Urban examples: Sanjay Gandhi National Park (Mumbai), Asola Bhatti Sanctuary (Delhi).
- In Himachal Pradesh, ~65% area already under forest cover.
- Kerala: Fear of new sanctuary leading to more restrictions.
Over-generalized: Existing guidelines unsuitable for marine sanctuaries, need ecosystem-specific norms.

[UPSC 2014] With reference to ‘Eco-Sensitive Zones’, which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. Eco-Sensitive Zones are the areas that are declared under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

2. The purpose of the declaration of Eco-Sensitive Zones is to prohibit all kinds of human activities in those zones except agriculture.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 *

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Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ included in the UNESCO World Heritage List

Prelims Only | Art and Culture | Mains Paper 1: Arts & Culture

Why in the News?

The ‘Maratha Military Landscapes’ of India have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the cultural category during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee held in Paris.

About Maratha Military Landscapes:

Overview: A network of 12 forts showcasing the Maratha Empire’s military architecture and strategic fortification from the 17th to 19th centuries.
Time Period: Developed between 1670 CE (Shivaji’s era) and 1818 CE (end of Peshwa rule).
Geographical Spread: 11 forts in Maharashtra and 1 in Tamil Nadu (Gingee Fort), covering hill, coastal, forest, plateau, and island terrains.
Key Forts: Salher, Shivneri, Lohgad, Raigad, Rajgad, Pratapgad, Khanderi, Suvarnadurg, Panhala, Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg (Maharashtra); Gingee (Tamil Nadu).
Types:
- Hill forts: Rajgad, Raigad
- Hill-forest: Shivneri
- Coastal: Suvarnadurg, Vijaydurg
- Island: Khanderi, Sindhudurg
Protection:
- 8 forts by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- 4 forts by Maharashtra’s Directorate of Archaeology & Museums
Ideology: Reflects Shivaji’s military decentralization, terrain-based defense, and self-sustaining fort systems.
Tagged under cultural criteria:
- (iii) Exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition
- (iv) Outstanding example of military architecture
- (vi) Association with historic events and traditions

What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

A WHS is a landmark or area recognized for its cultural, historical, natural, or scientific value to humanity.
It is governed by the UNESCO World Heritage Convention (1972).
- India formally signed the Convention on November 14, 1977.
Sites are selected by the World Heritage Committee, comprising 21 elected state parties.
Categories include:
- Cultural (e.g., forts, temples, cities)
- Natural (e.g., forests, parks, biodiversity sites)
- Mixed (having both cultural and natural value)
Selection is based on 10 criteria (6 cultural + 4 natural); at least one must be met.
Once inscribed, sites are eligible for global recognition, protection, and funding.

[UPSC 2024] Consider the following properties included in the World Heritage List released by UNESCO:

1. Shantiniketan 2. Rani-ki-Vav 3. Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas 4. Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodhgaya

How many of the above properties were included in 2023?

Options: (a) Only one (b) Only two* (c) Only three (d) All four

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Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

[pib] Sanchar Mitra Scheme

Prelims Only Schemes | Economics | Mains Paper 3: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways Etc.
Why in the News?

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has launched an expanded Sanchar Mitra Scheme to engage engineering students as digital ambassadors for promoting telecom literacy, digital safety, and citizen engagement.

What is the Sanchar Mitra Scheme?
- Launching Body: An initiative by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India.
- Primary Aim: To engage student volunteers as “Sanchar Mitras” or digital ambassadors to spread awareness about telecom-related issues.
- Purpose:
  - Bridge the communication gap between citizens and the telecom ecosystem.
  - Promote safe and informed use of telecom services.
  - Encourage public participation in India’s digital transformation.
- Implementation Status:
  - Piloted in select institutions.
  - Now being scaled up for nationwide rollout.
Key Features and Highlights:
- Target Audience: It primarily targets students from engineering and technical backgrounds such as telecommunications, computer science, electronics, and cybersecurity.
- Selection of Volunteers: Students will be nominated as Sanchar Mitras in consultation with DoT field units and educational institutions.
- Training Modules: Volunteers will be trained to conduct grassroots campaigns on cyber fraud prevention, EMF radiation concerns, and responsible digital behavior.
- Training Institutions: Training will be delivered by the National Communications Academy–Technology (NCA-T) and the Media Wing of the DoT.
- Core Pillars: The scheme is structured around three key pillars: Connect, Educate, and Innovate.
- Tech Awareness Promotion: Sanchar Mitras will promote awareness on emerging telecom technologies like 5G, 6G, AI, and cybersecurity.
- Community Outreach: Students will engage with communities, NGOs, and schools to foster a culture of informed digital citizenship.
- Strategic Alignment: It aligns with India’s strength in the “Four Ds”: Democracy, Demography, Digitisation, and Delivery.
[UPSC 2010] Which among the following do/does not belong/belongs to the GSM family of wireless technologies?

Options: (a) EDGE (b) LTE (c) DSL* (d) Both EDGE and LTE
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North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

What are Autonomous District Councils (ADC)?

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

Why in the News?

Mizoram Governor has imposed Governor’s Rule in the Chakma Autonomous District Council (CADC) due to prolonged political instability and repeated leadership changes.

About Autonomous District Councils (ADCs):

Basis: They are local self-governing institutions established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Coverage: ADCs are constituted in tribal areas of the northeastern states—Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram (ATM2).
Purpose: These councils aim to provide autonomy to tribal communities to preserve their culture, customs, and govern their local affairs.
Notification: Each tribal area notified under the Sixth Schedule is declared an autonomous district, governed by its respective ADC.
Objective: The primary objectives of ADCs are to promote tribal self-governance, ensure local development, and protect tribal identity and rights.

Key Features of ADCs

Legal Status: ADCs are formed through constitutional provisions under the Sixth Schedule and are not governed by state laws.
Council Composition: Each ADC comprises up to 30 members, of which 26 are elected by adult suffrage and 4 are nominated by the Governor.
Tenure: The tenure of an ADC is 5 years from the date of its constitution.
Scope of Authority: ADCs have legislative, executive, and limited judicial powers specific to the needs of tribal communities.
Applicability of Laws: State and Central laws do not automatically apply in ADC areas unless explicitly extended by the Governor.

Powers and Functions of ADCs:

Law-Making Powers: ADCs can enact laws on land management, agriculture, and forest use (excluding reserved forests).
Customary Regulations: They can regulate inheritance, marriage, divorce, and social customs, and appoint traditional chiefs and headmen.
Local Administration: It oversee services such as primary education, dispensaries, roads, markets, and fisheries.
Judicial Functions: Councils can establish village courts to try civil and criminal cases involving tribal members, with sentencing powers up to five years.
Regulation of Trade: They may regulate money lending and trade by non-tribals, subject to Governor’s approval.
Revenue Sources: It can levy taxes on professions, trades, animals, vehicles, markets, ferries, and public infrastructure like roads and schools.

Autonomy and Limitations:

Degree of Autonomy: ADCs enjoy substantial legislative and administrative autonomy within their territorial jurisdiction.
Non-Applicability of General Laws: Parliamentary and State laws apply only when directed by the Governor, ensuring self-rule.
Governor’s Oversight: Despite autonomy, the Governor retains discretionary powers and can approve, modify, or annul council decisions.
Financial Constraints: ADCs often face limited revenue generation, which restricts their developmental effectiveness.
Administrative Challenges: Operational issues include leadership instability, shortage of trained personnel, and state-level interference in council functions.

[UPSC 2015] The provisions in Fifth Schedule and Sixth Schedule in the Constitution of India are made in order to:

Options: (a) protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes * (b) determine the boundaries between States (c) determine the powers, authority and responsibilities of Panchayats (d) protect the interests of all border States

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Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

UNEP Frontiers 2025 Report on Legacy Pollutants

IOCR Prelims Only | Enviro & Biodiversity | Mains Paper 3: Conservation, Environmental Pollution & Degradation, Eia

Why in the News?

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in its latest Frontiers 2025 report titled The Weight of Time, has warned that increased river and coastal flooding caused by climate change could unearth dangerous legacy pollutants from water bodies.

About Legacy Pollutants:

Definition: Legacy pollutants refer to toxic substances like heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that continue to remain in the environment even decades after their use has been banned or restricted.
Examples:
- Heavy Metals: Lead, Cadmium, Mercury, Arsenic.
- Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs):
  - Pesticides: DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane), Aldrin, Endrin, Chlordane.
  - Industrial Chemicals: PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls), Dioxins, Furans.
  - By-products: Produced from incineration, metal smelting, and waste burning.
Persistence: These substances are highly resistant to environmental degradation and accumulate in riverbeds, lakes, estuaries, and other sediment-rich ecosystems.
Health Hazards: Even at low exposure levels, legacy pollutants can cause: Neurotoxicity (nervous system damage), Immunotoxicity (immune disruption), Hepatotoxicity (liver damage), Reproductive toxicity (infertility, birth defects), Carcinogenicity (various cancers), Endocrine disruption etc.
Sources:
- Past industrial practices, use of banned agricultural chemicals, and obsolete pesticide stockpiles.
- Improperly managed chemical landfills, which still hold an estimated 4.8–7 million tonnes of POP waste globally.

UNEP Frontiers 2025 Report on Legacy Pollutants

Key Highlights of Frontiers 2025: The Weight of Time (UNEP):

Retreat of Toxins: Climate change-induced flooding can unearth and redistribute toxic legacy pollutants from contaminated sediments into the environment and food chain.
How? Floodwaters re-suspend heavy metals and POPs trapped in sediment.
Case Studies Cited:
- Hurricane Harvey (Texas, 2017): Released mercury and carcinogenic chemicals from flood-induced sediment dispersal into Galveston Bay.
- Niger Delta Floods (Nigeria, 2012): Mobilised Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) from oil-contaminated sediments.
- Pakistan Floods (2010 & 2022): Washed away obsolete pesticide stockpiles, spreading DDT and other POPs into floodwaters and soils.
India-Specific Findings:
- Sediments of Ganga, Hindon, and Vaigai Rivers show dangerously high levels of Cadmium.
- Cadmium is a known carcinogen and endocrine disruptor, with potential to cause kidney, bone, and reproductive harm.
- Ayad and Vaigai Rivers also showed up deadly levels of Lead concentration.

[UPSC 2016] Which of the following can be found as pollutants in the drinking water in some parts of India?

1. Arsenic 2. Sorbitol 3. Fluoride 4. Formaldehyde 5. Uranium

Options: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2, 4 and 5 only (c) 1, 3 and 5 only* (d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

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Primary and Secondary Education – RTE, Education Policy, SEQI, RMSA, Committee Reports, etc.

[pib] TALASH Initiative

Prelims Only | Indian Society | Mains Paper 2: Government Scheme/Policies

Why in the News?

The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) and UNICEF India launched TALASH (Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub), a first-of-its-kind national initiative for holistic development of tribal students in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs).

About the TALASH Initiative:

Overview: TALASH (Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub) is a national programme launched by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) in partnership with UNICEF India.
Target Group: It is aimed at the holistic development of tribal students studying in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) across the country.
Objectives: The initiative fosters self-awareness, emotional resilience, life skills, and career clarity among tribal youth.
Focus: It is the first national initiative in India designed specifically for tribal students.
Broader Policy: TALASH aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, promoting inclusive, equitable, and competency-based education.
Coverage Goal: Over 1,38,336 students across 28 States and 8 Union Territories are expected to benefit.
Implementation: By the end of 2025, TALASH aims to be implemented in all EMRSs nationwide.

Key Features of TALASH:

Psychometric Assessments:
- Inspired by NCERT’s ‘Tamanna’, TALASH offers aptitude tests to help students discover their interests, abilities, and potential.
- Based on the results, students receive Career Cards suggesting suitable career options.
Career Counselling: The platform offers structured career guidance to help students make informed decisions aligned with their strengths and aspirations.
Life Skills & Self-Esteem Modules: TALASH teaches communication, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and self-confidence through interactive modules.
E-Learning for Teachers:
- A dedicated online portal provides training and resources to teachers to help them mentor students effectively.
- So far, 189 teachers from 75 EMRSs have been trained to lead school-level sessions.

[UPSC 2017] With reference to ‘National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)’, which of the statements given below is/are correct?

1. Under NSQF, a learner can acquire the certification for competency only through formal learning.

2. An outcome expected from the implementation of NSQF is the mobility between vocational and general education.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only* (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2

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Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

[pib] Fossils reveal Kashmir Valley’s Climatic Past

Prelims Only | Geography | Mains Paper 1: Important Geophysical Phenomena

Why in the News?

Researchers from Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (BSIP), Lucknow, have found strong evidence that the Kashmir Valley, now cool and temperate, was once a warm, humid subtropical region.

About the Study on Fossils:

Site of Fossil Discovery: The fossils were recovered from the Karewa sediments of the Kashmir Valley, known for preserving ancient plant remains.
Analysis: Researchers used CLAMP (Climate Leaf Analysis Multivariate Program) to analyze fossil leaf shape, size, and margins to estimate past temperature and rainfall patterns.
Coexistence Approach: It was also used, comparing fossil plants with their modern relatives to reconstruct the region’s ancient climate.

Key Findings:

Past Climate Type: The Kashmir Valley once had a warm, humid subtropical climate, very different from the cool, Mediterranean-type climate it experiences today.
Vegetation Evidence: Fossilized leaves showed diverse subtropical plant types no longer found in the region’s current vegetation.
Role of Tectonic Uplift: The tectonic uplift of the Pir Panjal Range was identified as a key factor that blocked the Indian summer monsoon from entering the valley.
Climatic Transition: This led to gradual drying of the region and a shift from subtropical forests to temperate ecosystems.
Impact of Mountain-Building: The study shows that mountain-building (tectonic uplift) can directly affect climate patterns by altering monsoon routes.
Relevance to Climate Change: The findings provide insight into natural climate shifts over millions of years, helping contextualize modern climate change.
Ecological Vulnerability: It also highlights the fragility of mountain ecosystems like the Himalayas, which are vulnerable to both natural and human-induced environmental changes.

Back2Basics:

Karewa Sediments: They are plateau-like terraces in the Kashmir Valley, made up of lacustrine (lake) and fluvio-glacial deposits; They are known to preserve ancient fossils, especially of plants.
Subtropical Climate: A warm and humid climate with moderate to high rainfall, supporting dense vegetation. Ex: Climate of northeastern India.
Mediterranean-Type Climate: Characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers; Ex: Current climate of parts of the Kashmir Valley.

[UPSC 2025] Which of the following are the evidence of the phenomenon of continental drift?

I. The belt of ancient rocks from Brazil coast matches with those from Western Africa. II. The gold deposits of Ghana are derived from the Brazil plateau when the two continents lay side by side. III. The Gondwana system of sediments from India is known to have its counterparts in six different landmasses of the Southern Hemisphere.

Options: (a) I and III only (b) I and II only (c) I, II and III * (d) II and III only

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What are Zonal Councils?

Prelims Only | Polity | Mains Paper 2: Federalism

Why in the News?

Union Home Minister recently highlighted that 83% of issues discussed in Zonal Council meetings have been resolved, reaffirming their role as effective platforms for intergovernmental cooperation.

What are Zonal Councils?

Establishment: They are statutory bodies established under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956; they are not constitutional bodies.
Purpose: Their main goal is to promote cooperation and coordination among states, union territories, and the central government.
Basis for Zoning: Zones were drawn based on natural divisions, cultural and linguistic affinity, river systems, and security needs.
Zonal Division: India is divided into five zones—Northern, Central, Eastern, Western, and Southern—with a separate Zonal Council for each:

1. Northern Zonal Council: Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Delhi, Chandigarh
2. Central Zonal Council: Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh
3. Eastern Zonal Council: Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal
4. Western Zonal Council: Goa, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Daman & Diu
5. Southern Zonal Council: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry

Note:

North-Eastern Council (NEC) (separate body): Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim (added in 2002)
The union territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep are NOT members of any of the Zonal Councils. However, they are presently special invitees to the Southern Zonal Council.

Composition and Structure of Zonal Councils:

Chairperson: Each Zonal Council is chaired by the Union Home Minister.
State Representation: The Chief Ministers of all states in the respective zone are members of the Council.
Additional Members: Each state nominates two additional ministers; administrators of union territories also participate.
Vice-Chairperson Role: The role of Vice-Chairperson rotates annually among the Chief Ministers.
Standing Committees: These are formed with Chief Secretaries of states and meet ahead of full sessions to finalize the agenda.

Functions and Responsibilities:

Cooperation & Consensus: Promote interstate and Centre-state cooperation through dialogue and consensus-building.
Key Issues Addressed: Economic and social planning, Border disputes, Inter-state transport, Linguistic minority concerns etc.
Advisory Role: While the councils’ recommendations are advisory, they play a vital role in dispute resolution and coordinated policy formulation.

Recent Developments and Significance:

Leadership in NEC: In 2018, the Union Home Minister became the Chairperson of the North Eastern Council, signaling a push for broader integration.
Revitalization under Modi Government: Zonal Councils have evolved into dynamic, action-oriented platforms rather than passive advisory bodies.
Strengthening Federalism: These councils now actively contribute to cooperative federalism, resolve disputes, and accelerate regional development.
Efficacy in Implementation: With 83% of agenda issues resolved, Zonal Councils demonstrate increasing political will and effectiveness in addressing regional challenges.

[UPSC 2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?

1. National Development Council 2. Planning Commission 3. Zonal Councils

Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

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Type: Prelims Only

Why in the News?

About Nominated Members to the Rajya Sabha:

Composition of the Rajya Sabha:

Powers and Privileges of Nominated Members:

Why in the News?

About Lion-Tailed Macaque:

Why in the News?

What are Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs)?

2011 Guidelines on ESZs:

Recent Context:

Why in the News?

About Maratha Military Landscapes:

What are UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Why in the News?

What is the Sanchar Mitra Scheme?

Key Features and Highlights:

Why in the News?

About Autonomous District Councils (ADCs):

Key Features of ADCs

Powers and Functions of ADCs:

Autonomy and Limitations:

Why in the News?

About Legacy Pollutants:

Key Highlights of Frontiers 2025: The Weight of Time (UNEP):

Why in the News?

About the TALASH Initiative:

Key Features of TALASH:

Why in the News?

About the Study on Fossils:

Key Findings:

Back2Basics:

Why in the News?

What are Zonal Councils?

Note:

Composition and Structure of Zonal Councils:

Functions and Responsibilities:

Recent Developments and Significance: