Q. The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories has been a continuous ongoing process since the mid-nineteenth century. Discuss with examples.

Model Answer:

Continuous Political and Administrative Reorganization of Indian States Since Mid-19th Century

The political and administrative reorganization of states and territories in India has been a continuous process since the mid-19th century, reflecting the nation’s evolving needs and aspirations.

During British rule, reorganization served colonial administrative purposes:
• Formation of Bengal Presidency (1854)
• Partition of Bengal (1905) and its reversal (1911)

Post-Independence, the process focused on integrating princely states and linguistic considerations:
• Integration of over 560 princely states
• States Reorganisation Act, 1956: Created linguistic states (e.g., Maharashtra, Gujarat)
• Formation of new states:
– Gujarat (1960): Gujarati-speaking regions
– Nagaland (1963): Naga identity
– Haryana (1966): Hindi-speaking areas

The 1970s-80s saw further reorganization, particularly in the Northeast:
• Creation of Meghalaya, Manipur, and Tripura (1972)
• Formation of Sikkim (1975) and Mizoram (1987)

Late 20th and early 21st centuries witnessed demands for smaller states for better governance:
• Goa (1987): Distinct cultural identity
• Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand (2000): Development focus
• Telangana (2014): Regional aspirations

Throughout this process, the rationale for reorganization evolved:
1. Colonial administrative efficiency
2. Linguistic and cultural factors
3. Ethnic identity and regional aspirations
4. Improved governance and development

Recent reorganizations have focused on:
• Addressing developmental disparities
• Ensuring better administration of diverse regions
• Responding to long-standing regional demands

Conclusion: India’s ongoing state reorganization reflects its dynamic federal structure, adapting to changing socio-political needs and aspirations of its diverse population.