Explore Uttarakhand’s political landscape, detailing its governance structure, legislative framework, and key political developments. Learn about the state’s administrative divisions, major political parties, and influential leaders. Understand how Uttarakhand’s polity shapes its policy-making and impacts its socio-economic progress, contributing to its governance and public administration dynamics.
FAQs on Uttarakhand Geography
- What is the structure of government in Uttarakhand?
Uttarakhand follows a parliamentary system of government, as per the Indian Constitution. It has a unicameral legislature:
- Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha): The sole legislative body in the state, with a maximum of 70 members directly elected by the people, and one member nominated by the Governor.
- Who is the head of the state and the head of the government in Uttarakhand?
- Governor: The Governor is the constitutional head of the state, appointed by the President of India. Their role is largely ceremonial.
- Chief Minister: The Chief Minister is the head of the government and leads the Council of Ministers. They are responsible for the day-to-day administration of the state.
- How many districts are there in Uttarakhand?
- As of 2024, Uttarakhand has 13 districts.
- What are the main political parties in Uttarakhand?
- The major political parties in Uttarakhand are:
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
- Indian National Congress (INC)
- Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)
- Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (UKD)
- What is the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in Uttarakhand?
- Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) are the local self-government bodies in rural Uttarakhand. They function at three levels:
- Gram Panchayat (village level)
- Kshetra Panchayat (intermediate level)
- Zila Panchayat (district level) PRIs are responsible for local planning and development, providing essential services, and empowering people at the grassroots level.
- What are some important constitutional provisions related to Uttarakhand?
- The Uttar Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2000: This act led to the creation of Uttarakhand as a separate state from the northwestern part of Uttar Pradesh.
- The Uttarakhand Panchayati Raj Act, 2016: This act governs the functioning of Panchayati Raj Institutions in the state.
- The 73rd and 74th Amendments to the Constitution: These amendments provided constitutional status to PRIs and urban local bodies, respectively, ensuring their greater autonomy and financial resources.
- What are some current political issues in Uttarakhand?
- Some of the current political issues in Uttarakhand include:
- Environmental protection and sustainable development: Given the state’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem, balancing development with environmental conservation is a significant challenge.
- Migration from hill areas: Out-migration from the hilly areas due to lack of livelihood opportunities is a major concern.
- Disaster management: The state is prone to natural disasters like floods and landslides, and effective disaster management is a priority.
- Tourism management: Balancing the growth of tourism with the preservation of the state’s natural and cultural heritage is crucial.
- Infrastructure development: Improving connectivity, transportation, and other infrastructure in the hilly terrain remains a challenge.