GS2 · 10 marks · 150 words

"Interstate border disputes, if not promptly and impartially settled, can transform into persistent issues that impede development and generate friction." Highlighting the constitutional and legal framework to resolve interstate disputes, explain why Independent India has failed to resolve inter-state border disputes.

Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024

Centre-State RelationsFederalismBilateral Relations

Syllabus: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

How toppers approached it

From all 5 answers · about 200 words · 40% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening60%
  • A figure40%

Body

  • Points and prose60%
  • Points40%

Close

  • A way forward60%
  • No separate close40%

The toppers’ answers

NausheenAIR 9 · CSE 2023 · 115 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

The recent tussle between Maharashtra and Karnataka over Belgaum region shows inter-state border disputes in India.

Body · points and prose

Interstate border dispute impeding development and generating friction

→ (1) Disputes over movement within a particular state. Eg) During COVID crisis in Karnataka. → (2) Disputes over transboundary rivers. Eg) Kaveri river dispute. → (3) 'Blame games' during natural disasters. Eg) Delhi-Haryana over Yamuna floods.

Diagram
- constitutional and legal framework - Article 263 for resolving disputes through dialogue - Inter state Council - Article 262 - for creation of river boards and tribunal over rivers - Article 131 - Power of Supreme court to resolve disputes - GST council for fostering dialogue on economic issues

Reasons why Independent India has failed :

→ Appeals from the tribunals keep the dispute resolution pending. e.g) Kaveri river continues after 22 years dispute → Excessive regionalism in states. → No mechanism to enforce the adjudication of tribunals.

Close

However, events like Gujarat learning from Kerala's dashboard scheme shows cooperation between the federal units.

More on Centre-State Relations

Legislative, administrative and financial relations, and disputes between them.

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