For aspirants preparing for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) exams, mastering the Polity section is crucial. One of the foundational topics in Indian Polity is “Union and its Territories”, which forms the starting point of the Indian Constitution (Articles 1 to 4). While it may seem basic, its importance is deeper than it appears, especially for future defence officers expected to uphold the integrity and unity of the nation.
📌 1. Constitutional Significance
The topic is covered in Part I (Articles 1 to 4) of the Constitution and lays the foundation of India’s political geography:
- Article 1: Declares India as a “Union of States”.
- Article 2: Deals with admission or establishment of new states.
- Article 3: Empowers Parliament to form new states and alter boundaries.
- Article 4: Clarifies that laws under Articles 2 and 3 are not constitutional amendments.
Understanding this framework helps aspirants grasp how India has evolved territorially since independence—through the creation of new states and the integration of territories.
📌 2. Relevance in the NDA/CDS Exams
Questions based on this topic regularly appear in the General Knowledge section of both exams. Examples include:
- Why India is called a “Union” and not a “Federation”?
- Which article empowers Parliament to reorganize state boundaries?
- Historical examples of state formation (e.g., Telangana, Uttarakhand).
These questions test conceptual clarity and awareness of current events related to territorial changes.
📌 3. Defence Perspective
As future officers of the Indian Armed Forces, understanding the territorial composition of India is essential. Officers may be posted in different regions, including sensitive border areas and union territories like:
- Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir (strategic importance).
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands (naval importance).
- North-Eastern states (cultural and strategic complexities).
Knowledge of the Union and its territories allows officers to understand regional sensitivities, geopolitical concerns, and the strategic value of different locations.
📌 4. Current Affairs Linkage
The topic is closely linked with current events and government policies:
- Abrogation of Article 370 and reorganization of Jammu & Kashmir in 2019.
- Demand for statehood or autonomy in various regions.
- Border disputes and their constitutional implications.
Hence, understanding the constitutional provisions helps in interpreting current developments with a legal and factual lens.
📌 5. Foundation for Other Polity Topics
“Union and its Territories” lays the groundwork for other essential topics:
- Federalism and Centre-State Relations
- Emergency Provisions
- Citizenship and Fundamental Rights
