Actual Article
Article 371: Special provision with respect to the States of Maharashtra and Gujarat
(1) Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, the President may by order made with respect to the State of Maharashtra or Gujarat, provide for any special responsibility of the Governor for—
- (a) the establishment of separate development boards for Vidarbha, Marathwada, and the rest of Maharashtra or Saurashtra, Kutch, and the rest of Gujarat with the provision that a report on the working of each of these boards will be placed each year before the State Legislative Assembly;
- (b) the equitable allocation of funds for developmental expenditure over the said areas, subject to the requirements of the State as a whole; and
- (c) the equitable arrangement providing adequate facilities for technical education and vocational training, and adequate employment opportunities in the State services in respect of the areas.
UPSC Notes for Article 371
Explanation:
- Special Responsibility of the Governor: Article 371 grants the President the authority to assign special responsibilities to the Governor of Maharashtra and Gujarat to ensure the equitable development of specific regions within these states.
- Development Boards: Mandates the establishment of separate development boards for Vidarbha, Marathwada, and the rest of Maharashtra, as well as Saurashtra, Kutch, and the rest of Gujarat.
- Equitable Allocation of Funds: Ensures the equitable allocation of funds for development across these regions.
- Education and Employment: Provides for adequate facilities for technical education, vocational training, and employment opportunities in state services for the regions.
Key Points:
- Regional Development: Focuses on balanced regional development within Maharashtra and Gujarat.
- Governor’s Role: Empowers the Governor to oversee and ensure the implementation of these provisions.
- Annual Reports: Requires annual reports on the functioning of development boards to be presented to the State Legislative Assembly, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 371
Cases:
- No landmark Supreme Court cases specifically interpreting Article 371, but its provisions have been crucial in ensuring equitable development in Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Commissions:
- Various State Development Commissions: Have discussed the implementation and impact of development boards in Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Important Reports Related to Article 371:
- State Development Reports: Highlight the progress and challenges in achieving equitable development in the regions specified under Article 371.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 371
- (UPSC Prelims 2016) What does Article 371 of the Indian Constitution provide for?
A. Special provisions for Scheduled Tribes
B. Special responsibility of the Governor for certain regions in Maharashtra and Gujarat
C. Financial emergency provisions
D. Powers of the President during an emergency Correct Answer: B. Special responsibility of the Governor for certain regions in Maharashtra and Gujarat - (UPSC Prelims 2018) Which regions are covered under the special provisions of Article 371 for Maharashtra?
A. Vidarbha, Marathwada, and the rest of Maharashtra
B. Konkan, Vidarbha, and Marathwada
C. Mumbai, Pune, and Nashik
D. Saurashtra, Kutch, and the rest of Gujarat Correct Answer: A. Vidarbha, Marathwada, and the rest of Maharashtra
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 371
- Mains 2016: “Discuss the significance of Article 371 in promoting equitable development in Maharashtra and Gujarat. How does the role of the Governor ensure balanced regional development?”
- Mains 2019: “Evaluate the impact of the special provisions under Article 371 on regional disparities in Maharashtra and Gujarat. How effective have these measures been in addressing developmental imbalances?”
Additional Insights:
- Balanced Regional Development: Article 371 plays a crucial role in addressing regional disparities within Maharashtra and Gujarat, ensuring that underdeveloped regions receive adequate attention and resources.
- Governor’s Oversight: The special responsibility assigned to the Governor ensures that the provisions are implemented effectively, promoting transparency and accountability.
- Equitable Growth: Focuses on holistic development, including technical education, vocational training, and employment opportunities, contributing to the overall socio-economic development of the regions.
Understanding Article 371 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the constitutional provisions for promoting regional development and addressing disparities within Maharashtra and Gujarat. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms ensuring balanced regional growth within the Indian Constitution.