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Question

Which of the following accurately describes the legal and institutional basis of "Special Category State" status in India?

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2025 Tier 1 Question Paper (25-Sep-2025) (Shift 3)
The correct answer is
It is not mentioned in the Constitution and was granted by the National Development Council.

Special Category State Status: Legal and Institutional Basis

The "Special Category State" (SCS) status in India is not a constitutionally defined term. It does not find mention in the Constitution of India.

The classification and granting of SCS status originated from recommendations made by the National Development Council (NDC), an administrative body. This status was historically used to provide preferential treatment and specific grants to states facing developmental challenges.

Analysis of Options

  • Option 1 (Article 275): While Article 275 allows for grants from the Union to states, it does not define or confer "Special Category State" status itself.
  • Option 2 (Constitution & Inter-State Council): Special Category Status is not defined within the Indian Constitution, nor is the Inter-State Council the primary body for its recommendation or granting.
  • Option 3 (Not in Constitution & NDC): This accurately reflects the situation. SCS is an extra-constitutional designation recommended by the National Development Council.
  • Option 4 (Finance Commission & Article 280): The Finance Commission, under Article 280, recommends the distribution of financial resources, but the *granting* of SCS status was based on NDC recommendations, not directly by the Finance Commission.

Therefore, the legal and institutional basis is rooted in administrative recommendations rather than constitutional provisions.

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