Topic Details (Notes format)

Special Status vs. Special Category States

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Special Status, historically conferred under Article 371, grants unique administrative or legislative autonomy to regions like Nagaland, Mizoram, or Andhra Pradesh (post-bifurcation). Special Category States, designated by the National Development Council, receive preferential financial allocations for development. They often face geographical or socio-economic disadvantages (Himalayan terrain, tribal populations). Over time, Finance Commissions and changes in policy have altered the benefits. Distinguishing both is crucial: “special status” modifies governance structures constitutionally, while “special category” deals with economic packages. Both reflect India’s efforts to accommodate regional diversity, ensuring fair resource distribution and socio-cultural preservation.

Practice Questions

Which article of the Indian Constitution deals with the creation of the All India Services?

Who among the following is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?

Who appoints the Chief Justice of India?

भारतीय न्यायपालिका की स्वतंत्रता का मूल सिद्धांत क्या है?

संघीय परिषद का प्रावधान किस अनुच्छेद में है?

संसद के अध्यक्ष को किस नाम से जाना जाता है?

संविधान के किस अनुच्छेद में मौलिक अधिकारों का विवरण है?

Who is considered the "father of the Indian Constitution"?

कार्यपालिका के प्रमुख की नियुक्ति में किसका निर्णय अंतिम होता है?

राष्ट्रपति द्वारा दी जाने वाली शपथ किस अनुच्छेद में प्रावधिक है?