With reference to India, consider the following : I. The Inter-State Council II. The National Security Council III. Zonal Councils How many of the above are established as per the provisions of the Constitution of India?

1. A. Only one
2. B. Only two
3. C. All the three
4. D. None

Answer: A

Explanation

I. The Inter-State Council: This body is established under Article 263 of the Constitution of India. Article 263 empowers the President to establish such a council if it appears to him that the public interest would be served by its establishment. Thus, it is a constitutional body. II. The National Security Council (NSC): The NSC was established in 1998 by an executive order of the Government of India. It is an executive body, not a constitutional or statutory one. III. Zonal Councils: These councils were established under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, which is an Act of Parliament. Therefore, they are statutory bodies, not constitutional bodies. Hence, only the Inter-State Council is established as per the provisions of the Constitution of India. Distinguishing between constitutional, statutory, and executive bodies is a fundamental aspect of UPSC Polity & Governance.