Centre Proposes Sui Generis Model for Ladakh Under Article 371(K), Needs 2/3 Parliament Majority

Centre Proposes Article 371(K) for Ladakh: Directly Elected Body with Legislative Powers

The Centre has proposed adding Article 371(K) to the Constitution to grant Ladakh a directly elected governing body with legislative powers over land, culture, forests, and natural resources. This marks a potential shift from the Sixth Schedule model used in the Northeast and is the first such special provision for a Union Territory. The proposal remains a draft, with key powers like police and finance still under negotiation.

MHA Proposes Chapter K Under Article 371: Elected Body for Ladakh UT

The MHA has proposed a new constitutional provision under Article 371 (Chapter K) to establish an elected body with legislative powers for the Union Territory of Ladakh. This is a major structural reform addressing demands since Ladakh lost its special status in 2019, with key implications for federalism and UT governance.

MHA Seeks Input on Composition of Proposed Ladakh UT-Level Body Under Article 371(K)

The Centre is proposing a unique governance model for Ladakh under Article 371(K), avoiding statehood or full legislature. This has implications for federalism, constitutional amendments, and special provisions for regions. MHA's questionnaire seeks specifics on the new body's composition and powers, indicating progress in negotiations.

7 Years After Article 370 Revocation: J&K Still Awaits Statehood, Per Capita Income Ratio Falls to 76.6%

Seven years after the revocation of Article 370 and the loss of statehood, Jammu and Kashmir continues to face economic decline, high unemployment, and heavy-handed security measures. Despite Supreme Court advice to restore statehood, no timeline has been set. The article highlights the need for accountable governance through an elected administration, as the current Lt Governor-led rule lacks democratic accountability.

President Murmu Assents to Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026; State Renamed Keralam via Article 3

President Droupadi Murmu has given assent to the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026, renaming the state as Keralam. The bill amends the First Schedule of the Constitution under Article 3, following a resolution by the Kerala Assembly in 2024. This is a key example of the constitutional process for state name changes.

Centre Proposes Article 371(K) for Ladakh, Land & Ecology Central to Autonomy Debate

This article moves beyond the immediate political negotiations over Ladakh's demand for statehood and constitutional safeguards, framing the debate within critical dimensions of historical legacy, ecological fragility, and hydrological security for the northern plains. It highlights the proposed Article 371(K), the contentious Ailan No. 38 land regulation, and the strategic importance of the Indus Waters Treaty, making it a rich topic for both Prelims and Mains.

7 Years On: Article 370 Abrogation, J&K Bifurcation & UT Status Assessed

Seven years after the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of Jammu & Kashmir into two Union Territories, this article critically examines whether the Union government's promises of wide-ranging transformation have been delivered. For UPSC/State PSC aspirants, this is a key case study in centre-state relations, constitutional amendments, and the real-world impact of major governance reforms.

Bihar, Jharkhand Sign Sone River Water MoU; Marks 4th Inter-State Water Agreement in 2026 under Cooperative Federalism

Bihar and Jharkhand signed an MoU for sharing Sone river water, resolving a long-pending dispute. This is the fourth inter-state water agreement in 2026, highlighting the government's push for cooperative federalism. The agreement will benefit lakhs of farmers in Bihar and Jharkhand districts.