Which of the following criteria are specified for granting Special Category Status to States in India?
- 1Hilly and difficult terrain
- 2Economic and infrastructural backwardness
- 3Strategic coastal zone
- 4Sizeable share of tribal population Select the answer using the code given below:
- A1 and 2 only
- B3 and 4 only
- C1, 2 and 4 only
- D1, 2, 3 and 4
Explanation
Under the Gadgil formula/National Development Council criteria, Special Category Status is granted on the basis of: (1) hilly and difficult terrain, (2) low population density and/or a large tribal population, (3) strategic location along international borders, (4) economic and infrastructural backwardness, and (5) the non-viable nature of state finances. 'Strategic coastal zone' is not among the criteria, so statements 1, 2 and 4 only are correct — a conclusion confirmed against published solutions (Drishti IAS, Insights on India) for this question. These criteria were recommended by the Gadgil Committee and approved by the National Development Council in 1969.