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With reference to the role of advisors in Zonal Councils, consider the following statements:

  1. Advisors include a nominee from the NITI Aayog.

  2. Advisors provide technical expertise but cannot vote.

  3. The Chief Secretary of each state is a permanent advisor.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A1 and 2 only

B2 and 3 only

C1 and 3 only

D1, 2, and 3

Answer:

B. 2 and 3 only

Read Explanation:

Zonal Councils

  • The Zonal Councils are consultative and deliberative bodies established to promote and strengthen the spirit of cooperative federalism in India.

  • Statement 1 Incorrect: While NITI Aayog plays a significant role in policy formulation, its nominee is not a permanent or statutory advisor to the Zonal Councils. The advisors are typically drawn from various central government ministries and departments based on the agenda items being discussed.

  • Statement 2 Correct: Advisors to the Zonal Councils are appointed based on their expertise in specific fields relevant to the council's functions. Their primary role is to provide technical advice and support to the members. However, they do not have voting rights within the council.

  • Statement 3 Correct: The Chief Secretary of each constituent state within a particular zone is a permanent ex-officio advisor to the Zonal Council for that zone. This ensures the participation and perspective of the state administrations in the council's deliberations.

  • Composition and Functioning: Each Zonal Council comprises a Chairman (the Union Home Minister), a Vice-Chairman (Union Minister of State for Home Affairs), and the Chief Ministers and Cabinet Ministers of the states included in the zone. The advisors support the council's functioning by providing necessary information and expert opinions.

  • Formation of Zonal Councils: The Zonal Councils were created by the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. There are five Zonal Councils: Northern, Central, Eastern, Western, and Southern. The North-Eastern Council, though similar in function, was set up by a separate Act in 1971.

Related Questions:

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  1. At least half of the UPSC members must have held office under the Government of India or a state government for at least ten years.

  2. The UPSC is consulted on disciplinary matters and claims for reimbursement of legal expenses incurred by civil servants in official duties.

  3. The UPSC’s recommendations are advisory, and the government is not obligated to accept them.

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