The correct answer is: A. Regional Formula
The Regional Formula was a proposal for the internal reorganisation of Punjab, India, that was put forward by the Punjab Boundary Commission in 1956. The formula proposed the creation of three new states: Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh. The proposal was accepted by the Indian government and implemented in July 1956.
The Regional Formula was based on the principle of linguistic homogeneity. The three new states were created on the basis of the language spoken by the majority of the population in each region. Punjab was to be a Punjabi-speaking state, Haryana was to be a Hindi-speaking state, and Himachal Pradesh was to be a Hindi-speaking state with a significant Tibetan population.
The Regional Formula was controversial at the time, and it has been criticized for its failure to take into account the religious composition of the population. The formula also led to the displacement of a large number of people, as they were forced to move to the new states.
Despite its shortcomings, the Regional Formula was a significant step in the process of state reorganization in India. It helped to create a more linguistically homogeneous and politically stable country.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option B, Bifurcation Formula, was a proposal for the bifurcation of Punjab into two states, one for Hindus and one for Muslims. This proposal was rejected by the Indian government.
- Option C, Shah Formula, was a proposal for the reorganization of Punjab into four states, one for each of the four major religious groups in the state. This proposal was also rejected by the Indian government.
- Option D, Punjab Formula, was a proposal for the reorganization of Punjab into two states, one for Hindus and one for Sikhs. This proposal was also rejected by the Indian government.