What Key Issues Were Discussed at the Eastern Zonal Council Meeting Chaired by HM Shah?
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Synopsis
The Eastern Zonal Council meeting in Ranchi, led by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is addressing critical inter-state issues affecting Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. With 20 significant matters on the agenda, including water-sharing disputes and pending financial claims, this meeting could shape future cooperation among these states.
Key Takeaways
- Union Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the meeting.
- 20 significant inter-state issues are on the agenda.
- The Mayurakshi Dam water-sharing dispute is a primary concern.
- Jharkhand's financial claim of Rs 1.36 lakh crore will be discussed.
- Unresolved pension liabilities from the bifurcation will also be addressed.
Ranchi, July 10 (NationPress) The 27th session of the Eastern Zonal Council kicked off in Ranchi on Thursday, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah presiding over the proceedings.
Hosted at Hotel Radisson Blu, this significant gathering unites key leaders and officials from Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha to discuss 20 pivotal inter-state coordination matters.
Jharkhand's Chief Minister Hemant Soren extended a warm welcome to Amit Shah upon his arrival for the meeting.
Participating in the discussions are Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, along with Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida and Minister Mukesh Mahaling, Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary and Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, as well as West Bengal's Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya.
A team of senior bureaucrats from the four states, including a 15-member IAS-IPS delegation from Jharkhand, is also in attendance.
The agenda addresses a spectrum of inter-state issues, with the Mayurakshi Dam water-sharing dispute between Jharkhand and Bengal taking precedence.
Other topics include the cost-sharing of the Fulbari Dam under the Upper Mahananda Water Scheme; the construction of the Indrapuri Reservoir Project in Bihar; the development of a comprehensive silt management policy; the expansion of banking services to remote villages; timely investigations of cases under the POCSO Act and crimes against women and children; the status of fast-track special courts and the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS-112); and the delays in establishing BSF battalions and sector headquarters due to land acquisition issues in West Bengal.
Jharkhand is also set to reaffirm its claim of Rs 1.36 lakh crore from the Centre, a longstanding financial request. The state is likely to address pending fund releases under MNREGA and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
Moreover, unresolved matters stemming from the bifurcation of Bihar and Jharkhand, particularly concerning pension liabilities, are expected to be reviewed.
The Union Home Ministry had previously instructed the Accountants General of both states to reconcile data, following disputes over inconsistencies in pension payment records.
Important decisions related to these issues are anticipated during the day-long meeting.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the significance of the Eastern Zonal Council meeting. With pressing issues on the agenda, this gathering presents an opportunity for states to collaboratively address their challenges. The outcomes could enhance regional cooperation and pave the way for sustainable development.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of the Eastern Zonal Council meeting?
The main focus is to address 20 crucial inter-state coordination issues, including water-sharing disputes and financial claims.
Who are the key participants in the meeting?
Key participants include Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Ministers from Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha, along with senior bureaucrats.
What is the significance of the Mayurakshi Dam water-sharing dispute?
This dispute is a top agenda item as it affects water resources and cooperation between Jharkhand and West Bengal.
What financial claims is Jharkhand expected to raise?
Jharkhand is expected to reiterate its claim of Rs 1.36 lakh crore from the Centre, along with pending fund releases.
What historical issues will be discussed?
The meeting will also address unresolved matters from the bifurcation of Bihar and Jharkhand, particularly pension liabilities.
