Purpose of Inter-State Council Setup in 1990

The Inter-State Council (ISC) was established in 1990 based on the recommendation of the Sarkaria Commission and the provisions of the Constitution.

• Constitutional Basis: The Council is mandated under $\(Article 263\)$ of the Constitution of India. This Article empowers the President to establish such a council if it appears that the public interests would be served by the establishment of a council charged with inquiring into and advising upon disputes which may have arisen between states, or between the Centre and states.
• Strengthening Federalism: The primary objective of setting up the ISC was to enhance and strengthen the federal structure of India. It serves as a platform for discussion and coordination between the Union government and state governments on matters of common interest. By facilitating dialogue and cooperation, it helps in resolving potential conflicts and promoting harmonious Centre-State relations, thereby reinforcing federal provisions.

Analysis of Options

• Option 1 is incorrect: The ISC does not substitute the National Development Council (NDC). Both bodies have distinct roles; the NDC focuses on economic planning, while the ISC deals with inter-governmental coordination.
• Option 3 is incorrect: The ISC is not an interface between the Judiciary and the Government. Its focus is on executive coordination between the Centre and states.
• Option 4 is incorrect: The ISC's membership consists of the Prime Minister, Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers of states. It does not include local customary bodies.

Therefore, the main purpose of establishing the Inter-State Council in 1990 was to strengthen the federal provisions of the Constitution by promoting cooperation and coordination between the Centre and the states.