What is the primary function of the Inter-State Council?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
Resolve disputes between states
Explanation
The primary function of the Inter-State Council is to investigate and discuss subjects of common interest between the Union and the states, or between different states, and to resolve disputes between them through coordination. Established under Article 263 of the Constitution of India, it serves as a decentralized forum to foster cooperative federalism by discussing policies, resolving friction, and streamlining implementation on shared issues.
The other options are incorrect because they fall under the jurisdiction of entirely different constitutional or statutory bodies:
Controlling inter-state trade is governed by parliamentary laws and specific constitutional provisions under Article 301 to 307.
Allocating central funds is the primary constitutional mandate of the Finance Commission (Article 280).
Electing the President is conducted by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both Houses of Parliament and Legislative Assemblies under Article 54.
Key Points
The Inter-State Council was established following the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission on Centre-State relations and was officially constituted by a Presidential Order in 1990. It is chaired by the Prime Minister and includes Chief Ministers of all States and Union Territories with legislative assemblies as its key members.
Additional Facts
Though Article 263 empowers the council to inquire into and advise upon disputes between states, its nature is purely advisory, unlike the Supreme Court which possesses exclusive original jurisdiction under Article 131 to legally adjudicate legal disputes between the Centre and States. The Council meets to cultivate a consensus-driven approach to national security, socioeconomic planning, and critical administrative conflicts.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which article of the Constitution of India contains the provisions regarding the establishment of the Inter-State Council?
Answer: Article 263.
Question: Under the chairmanship of which Prime Minister was the Inter-State Council officially established for the first time in 1990?
Answer: Vishwanath Pratap Singh (V. P. Singh).