Nitish, CB Naidu seek SC status for Bihar and AP

SC is not constitutionally mandated

It was introduced by the 5th Finance Commission in 1969

In the wake of the NDA’s recent electoral loss, political leaders Nitish Kumar and C.B. Naidu have renewed their calls for Special Category Status (SCS) for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. This designation, aimed at supporting states with geographical and socio-economic challenges, has been a longstanding demand for these regions.

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SCS, though not specified in the Indian Constitution, was introduced by the 5th Finance Commission in 1969 under Chairman Mahavir Tyagi. The initial beneficiaries of this status were Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, and Nagaland, based on the Gadgil Formula.

Traditionally, SCS was granted for plan assistance by the National Development Council of the former Planning Commission. Currently, eleven states hold this status: Assam, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Uttarakhand, and Telangana—the latest addition, formed from Andhra Pradesh.

The criteria for SCS designation include hilly terrain, low population density, a significant tribal population, strategic location along international borders, economic and infrastructure backwardness, and nonviable state finances. These parameters ensure that states with unique developmental challenges receive focused support.

Kumar and Naidu’s renewed demands underscore the significance of SCS in addressing regional disparities. The status aims to provide financial assistance and infrastructural support, promoting balanced socio-economic development across the country. As Bihar and Andhra Pradesh continue to lobby for SCS, the issue remains a critical point of discussion in India’s development strategy.