Formation of States & UTs in India

The transition of India from a colonial-era picture, comprising British-controlled provinces and princely states under local monarchs, to the integrated nation we see today was a monumental task undertaken between 1947 and 1950. The political map of India in 1947 was quite different as compared to the present one.

India had 565 princely states, each with its own situation. The Indian government had to talk, convince, and sometimes deal with opposition to make them part of the newly established Indian Union. This period also saw the emergence of linguistic states, further shaping India's political map.

Now, let's delve into the formation of states in detail along with the formation dates of each states and Union Territories.

How are states formed in India?

States in India are formed and reorganized through a constitutional process. The procedure for the formation of states in India is enshrined in Articles 3 and 4 of the Indian Constitution. The procedure is as follows:

1. Proposal: Typically, the process begins with a formal proposal by the President of India on the advice of the Council of Ministers, or it can also be initiated by a resolution in either house of Parliament. The proposal can suggest the creation of a new state, alteration of boundaries, or renaming of an existing state.

2. Parliamentary Approval: The proposal is then placed before Parliament for discussion and voting. It must be approved by a simple majority in both the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

3. Public Opinion: In some cases, especially when boundaries are being altered, the President may also refer the proposal to the concerned State Legislature for their views. However, the State Legislature's opinion is not binding on the Parliament.

4. Presidential Assent: After receiving the approval of both houses of Parliament, the President gives their assent to the proposal. Once the President assents, the proposal becomes law, and the changes are implemented.

5. Implementation: The new state comes into existence, boundaries are altered, or the state is renamed as per the approved proposal.

List of Formation Dates of States in India

List of Formation Dates of Union Territories of India

Classification of states in 1950 under the Indian Constitution

Classification of states in 1950 under the Indian Constitution, which is now repealed. The distinction between Part A, B, C, and D States are now classified into 2 units:

a) States

b) Union territories.

The posts of Rajpramukhs were demolished. The State Reorganization Act of 1956 formed 14 states and 6 union territories at that time.

• Part A- (Arts. 152- 237)- This part comprised states surrendered to India by the Britishers. (Repealed)

• Part B- (Art. 238)- This part comprised the states who were reluctant to join India, like Hyderabad, J & K etc. (Repealed)

• Part C- (Arts. 239- 242)- This part included small states that Britishers used as Union Territories (Chief Commissioner states), such as Manipur. (Repealed)

• Part D- (Arts. 243)- Included Andaman & Nicobar. (Repealed)

Conclusion

In summary, the state formation process in India post-independence was a complex and pivotal chapter in the country's history. It involved the integration of numerous princely states, often through negotiation and sometimes with resistance. This process laid the groundwork for the diverse and linguistically organized Indian states we have today, showcasing India's ability to unite and prosper in the face of substantial challenges.

Explore best online courses for law exams which are specially designed for UG & PG law students with crash courses & current affair updates. Learn with Finology Legal & crack exams such as CLAT, AIBE, UPSC etc.