Who was the chairman of the Second Commission on centre-state relations set-up by the government of India in April 2007?

The correct answer is M.M. Punchhi.

Key Points

• The Second Commission on Centre-State Relations was set up by the Government of India in April 2007 to address evolving dynamics between the central and state governments.
• Justice M.M. Punchhi, a former Chief Justice of India, was appointed as the chairman of this commission.
• The commission was tasked with reviewing the existing arrangements and suggesting measures for efficient governance and cooperative federalism in India.
• The Justice M.M. Punchhi Commission submitted its final report to the government in March 2010.
• The recommendations of the commission covered critical areas such as national security, financial relations, and constitutional governance to strengthen federal principles.

Additional Information

• Centre-State Relations:
  • Centre-State relations in India are categorized into three areas: Legislative, Administrative, and Financial relations.
  • The aim is to ensure a balance of power and smooth functioning of governance in a federal setup.
  • Articles 245 to 263 of the Indian Constitution deal with legislative and administrative relations, while financial relations are covered under Articles 268 to 293.
• First Commission on Centre-State Relations:
  • Headed by Justice R.S. Sarkaria, the first commission was established in June 1983 and submitted its report in 1988.
  • It examined and recommended measures for restructuring centre-state relations to ensure smooth governance.
  • Key recommendations included the proper use of Article 356, strengthening the Inter-State Council, and revisiting the role of the Finance Commission.
• Key Recommendations of the Punchhi Commission:
  • Suggested clear guidelines for the imposition of President's Rule under Article 356 to prevent its misuse.
  • Recommended that national interest should guide the deployment of central forces in states.
  • Proposed reforms in the role and functioning of the Governor to maintain impartiality.
  • Called for a permanent Interstate Trade and Commerce Commission to resolve disputes between states.
• Cooperative Federalism:
  • Cooperative federalism emphasizes collaboration between the central and state governments for collective progress and development.
  • In India, mechanisms like the NITI Aayog, Inter-State Council, and GST Council promote cooperative federalism.