Recently, the reconstitution of the National Integration Council (NIC) has been brought to the foreground due to the Ayodhya verdict. The NIC is an extra-constitutional body in India that serves a significant purpose in promoting national integration.
Composition and Leadership of the National Integration Council
At the helm of the NIC is the Prime Minister of India who serves as the chair. The composition of the Council is diverse and inclusive; it includes Cabinet ministers and Chief Ministers from various states. Additionally, political leaders, the Chairman of the University Grants Commission, the Commissioner for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are also part of this Council. Representatives from different sectors such as industry, business, and trade unions also have their seats in the NIC, ensuring a comprehensive representation.
The Genesis and Overview of the National Integration Council
The NIC was formed in response to the overwhelming need to address the detrimental issues of communalism, casteism, regionalism, and linguism plaguing Indian society. It was a conscious effort started after the National Integration Conference, which was chaired by then Prime Minister Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru in 1961.
The principal responsibility of the Council is to closely examine the varying aspects related to the problem of national integration. Based on these examinations, the Council makes necessary recommendations aimed at fostering unity in diversity.
NIC Meetings and Resolutions
Since its inception, the NIC has convened sixteen times, with the first meeting taking place in 1962. The most recent council meeting occurred in September 2013. At these meetings, significant resolutions have been passed to maintain communal harmony and eradicate discrimination. For instance, the meeting in 2013 resulted in a resolution condemning atrocities towards Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
Key Facts about the National Integration Council
| Year of Establishment | 1961 |
|---|---|
| Chairperson | Prime Minister of India |
| Number of Meetings till 2019 | 16 |
| Last Meeting held | September 2013 |
The Role of the National Integration Council in Today’s Context
In the backdrop of numerous societal challenges, the role of the National Integration Council is more relevant than ever. The Council serves as a beacon against communalism, casteism, regionalism, and linguism. Its resolutions form fundamental guidelines for fostering national integration and solidarity amongst various communities in India. Thus, the NIC continues to be a critical platform for deliberations on national integrity and unity in diversity.