Amit Shah to Lead Central Zonal Council Meet, Pushing for Cooperative Federalism

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to preside over the 25th Central Zonal Council meeting in Varanasi on Tuesday, as confirmed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). High-level state representation is expected, with Chief Ministers and senior ministers from each of the council's member states attending the session.

The meeting encompasses participation from Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. Co-organized by the Inter-State Council Secretariat under the MHA and the Uttar Pradesh government, it aims to address key regional issues and fortify inter-state cooperation.

Established under the States Reorganisation Act of 1956, the Zonal Councils serve as platforms for structured inter-state dialogue, with Shah acting as chairperson. The councils, despite their advisory role, have become pivotal in fostering improved federal relations. The Varanasi meeting will delve into pressing matters like fast-tracking critical legal cases, enhancing rural banking infrastructure, and joining forces on educational and infrastructural development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocates leveraging both cooperative and competitive federalism to ensure holistic national development. The current dialogue highlights these councils' role in national progress, marked by their history of resolving issues that straddle regional and national significance.

(With inputs from agencies.)