Examine the recommendations of the States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) of 1953 and evaluate whether the subsequent formation of linguistic states has strengthened or weakened the cause of Indian unity.

Question Information

• The marks-oriented approach to answering (10-mark, 150-word) questions in the question is to use Bullet Points (one idea per bullet point), Brainstorming, or a combination of both.
• The way to score good marks in questions worth (15 marks. 250 words) is to use the Heading and Subheading method while writing your answers.

• Examine → Explain key recommendations with reasoning
• Evaluate → Weigh outcomes, present balanced judgement

• Regional What SRC (1953) recommended and why
• Impact of linguistic reorganisation on Indian unity (strengthened vs weakened)

Dos & Don’ts

• Can use Brainstorming Idea: Linguistic demands → SRC recommendations → State reorganisation → National integration
• Maintain balanced evaluation
• Highlight federal accommodation of diversity
• Link SRC recommendations to long-term outcomes
• Use neutral constitutional language
• Show post-Independence consolidation context

• Don’t take an extreme pro- or anti-linguistic stance
• Avoid listing states mechanically
• Don’t ignore SRC’s cautionary notes
• Avoid emotional or political opinions
• Don’t confuse SRC with later state formations