Union and Its Territory – Indian Polity Notes for UPSC, SSC, Railway Exams |

Introduction:

“Union and Its Territory” is the first chapter of the Indian Constitution and a very important topic for students preparing for exams like SSC, UPSC, CDS, and State PCS. This chapter explains the official name of our country, its structure as a union of states, and how new states or union territories can be created or changed. Articles 1 to 4 of the Constitution cover this topic in detail.

 1. Union of States-

Key Points:

· India is a Union of States, not a federation of states.

· Article 1 defines India as a Union of States.

· Comprises 28 states and 8 Union Territories (as of 2025).

· Emphasizes unity in diversity.

Explanation:

The Indian Constitution describes India as a Union of States under Article 1, meaning it’s a single nation made up of various states, not a loose federation where states can leave. Unlike the United States, where states joined voluntarily, Indian states were integrated by the Constitution. As of 2025, India has 28 states (e.g., Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra) and 8 Union Territories (e.g., Delhi, Puducherry). This structure promotes unity in diversity, reflecting India’s cultural and linguistic variety.

Exam Tip: Memorize the current count (28 states, 8 Union Territories) and Article 1 for quick recall.

 

Making of the Indian Constitution (Read Here)

2. Powers of Parliament Regarding Reorganization of States-

Key Points:

· Parliament can alter state boundaries under Article 3.

· Requires a bill passed by both Houses and President’s assent.

· Examples: Creation of Telangana (2014), bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh.

· No state consent needed, unlike some federations.

Explanation:

The Indian Parliament has the power to reorganize states under Article 3, which allows changes in boundaries, names, or creation of new states. This requires a bill passed by both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, followed by the President’s approval. Unlike federal countries like the USA, states’ consent isn’t mandatory. Key examples include the creation of Telangana in 2014 (bifurcated from Andhra Pradesh) and the reorganization of northeastern states.

Concept of the Indian Constitution (Read Here)

3. Exchange of Territories with Bangladesh-

Key Points:

· 1974 agreement exchanged 162 enclaves with Bangladesh.

· Implemented under the 100th Amendment (2015).

· Aimed to resolve border disputes and improve ties.

· Required constitutional amendment under Article 368.

Explanation:
India and Bangladesh exchanged territories to resolve long-standing border issues through a 1974 agreement, finalized with the 100th Amendment (2015). This involved transferring 162 enclaves, small pockets of land, to streamline borders and enhance diplomatic relations. The process required a constitutional amendment under Article 368, reflecting Parliament’s role in territorial changes.

Sources of Indian Constitution (Read Here)

4. Origin of Union Territories and States-

Key Points:

· States evolved from British provinces and princely states.

· Union Territories created for strategic or administrative reasons.

· Examples: Delhi (capital), Lakshadweep (strategic). 

· Governed by the President through Administrators.

Explanation:

The origin of states and Union Territories traces back to India’s independence in 1947. States were formed by integrating British provinces (e.g., Bombay) and princely states (e.g., Hyderabad) after the States Reorganization Act, 1956, based on language and culture. Union Territories (e.g., Delhi, Lakshadweep) were created for strategic importance (e.g., Andaman Islands) or administrative needs, governed directly by the President via Administrators.

Preamble of the Constitution (Read Here)