Productive Eastern Zonal Council Meeting Bolsters Cooperative Federalism in Ranchi

Ranchi, Jharkhand – In a significant move towards strengthening cooperative federalism and accelerating national development, Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Thursday, July 10, 2025, chaired the 27th Eastern Zonal Council Meeting in Ranchi. This crucial gathering brought together key stakeholders from the eastern states of India, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and resolving inter-state and Centre-state issues. The Eastern Zonal Council Meeting served as a vital platform for dialogue and decision-making on a range of pressing matters affecting Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal.

The high-profile Eastern Zonal Council Meeting saw the active participation of Jharkhand Chief Minister Champai Soren, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha, and West Bengal Minister of State for Finance Chandrima Bhattacharya. Their presence, along with other senior officials from various departments, highlighted the collaborative spirit envisioned for regional development. The collective participation in this Eastern Zonal Council Meeting showcased a united approach towards achieving shared goals.

Fostering “TEAM BHARAT” through the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting

Addressing the council members, Minister Shah passionately articulated the vision of “TEAM BHARAT,” a concept rooted in cooperative federalism. He emphasized that the comprehensive development of India by the year 2047 hinges on the robust collaboration between the Centre and state governments. The Eastern Zonal Council Meeting exemplified this principle, acting as a testament to how coordinated efforts can lead to significant progress. Shah highlighted the increasing frequency and productivity of regional council meetings, noting a substantial improvement in resolving long-standing issues. He proudly stated that a remarkable percentage of issues between states and with the Centre have been successfully resolved through these structured dialogues, with the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting being a prime example of this effectiveness.

Key Discussions and Resolutions at the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting

The agenda for the 27th Eastern Zonal Council Meeting was comprehensive, touching upon several critical areas. Among the primary discussions were intricate, long-pending issues related to dams and reservoirs, which often require delicate inter-state negotiations. The council also delved into the complex matter of asset division between Bihar and Jharkhand, a subject that has historically posed challenges since the bifurcation of Bihar. This Eastern Zonal Council Meeting aimed to provide clear pathways for resolution, promoting smoother state functioning.

Furthermore, the implementation of new criminal laws across the eastern states was a significant point of discussion at the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting. The focus was on ensuring a seamless transition and effective enforcement of these new legal frameworks. Combating narcotics, a pervasive challenge across the nation, also received considerable attention. Strategies for curbing drug trafficking and abuse were deliberated, with a view to formulating a unified regional approach. Skill training initiatives were another crucial area, with emphasis on enhancing the employability of the youth in these states, ensuring they are prepared for the evolving economic landscape. The Eastern Zonal Council Meeting prioritized these discussions to foster regional growth.

National Priorities Addressed by the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting

Beyond regional concerns, the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting also addressed issues of national importance. The progress and effectiveness of Fast Track Special Courts (FTSC) were reviewed, with a focus on expediting justice delivery, particularly in cases involving vulnerable sections of society. Ensuring banking facilities in every village was another key topic, aiming to boost financial inclusion and empower rural populations. The Emergency Response Support System (ERSS), a vital tool for public safety and immediate assistance, was also discussed, with an emphasis on its optimal utilization and expansion across the eastern states. The comprehensive nature of the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting agenda reflected a commitment to holistic development.

A major highlight of Minister Shah’s address at the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting was the significant success achieved in combating Naxalism. He lauded the concerted efforts that have led to a considerable reduction in Naxalite activities in the region. With an optimistic outlook, the Union Home Minister expressed an ambitious goal: to make India completely Naxalism-free by March 31, 2026. This declaration at the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting reiterated the government’s unwavering resolve to ensure peace and security in all corners of the nation, allowing for unhindered development.

In conclusion, the 27th Eastern Zonal Council Meeting in Ranchi marks another milestone in India’s journey towards cooperative federalism. The productive discussions, the focus on resolving both regional and national issues, and the collective commitment demonstrated by all participating states underscore a promising path for the eastern region’s progress. The meeting reinforced the vision of a stronger, more unified India, ready to achieve its developmental aspirations by 2047. The outcomes of this Eastern Zonal Council Meeting are expected to translate into concrete actions that benefit millions across Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal. The continued emphasis on collaboration through platforms like the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting will be instrumental in navigating future challenges and harnessing the full potential of these states.