INTER STATE COUNCIL-COMPOSITION, FUNCTIONS

The Inter-State Council in India is a constitutional body that facilitates cooperation and coordination between the central government and the state governments. It is established by Article 263 of the Indian Constitution.

Composition:

1. Chairperson:
   • The Prime Minister of India serves as the Chairperson of the Inter-State Council.
2. Members:
   • Members of the Council include:
     • Chief Ministers of all states.
     • Chief Ministers of Union Territories having a Legislative Assembly.
     • Administrators of Union Territories not having a Legislative Assembly, as nominated by the President.
3. Union Cabinet Ministers:
   • Union Cabinet Ministers responsible for the concerned subjects may be included as members.
4. Governors:
   • Governors of states, as well as administrators or Lieutenant Governors of Union Territories, may be invited to attend meetings in special cases.

Functions:

1. Investigation and Discussion:
   • The Inter-State Council facilitates the investigation and discussion of subjects of common interest between the center and the states, or among the states.
2. Advice to President:
   • The Council provides recommendations to the President on any matter of common interest in the field of governance, particularly if it involves coordination between the center and states.
3. Advisory Role:
   • It acts in an advisory capacity to resolve disputes between states or between the center and states through mutual discussions.
4. Policy Recommendations:
   • The Council makes recommendations for the better coordination of policy and action among states and between the center and states.
5. Review of Legislation:
   • It reviews the work of various statutory commissions and other bodies dealing with inter-state matters.
6. Any Other Function:
   • The Council may perform any other function as the President may assign to it, considering the need for cooperation and coordination between the center and the states.

The Inter-State Council is an important institution that aims to foster cooperation and harmony between the central government and the states, promoting the principles of federalism. It plays a significant role in facilitating discussions, providing recommendations, and addressing issues of common interest for the overall development and governance of the country.