The Inter-State Council, established under Article 263 of the Constitution, promotes coordination between Centre and States, strengthening cooperative federalism and resolving inter-state issues in India.

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• Constitutional body under Article 263, set up in 1990 based on Sarkaria Commission recommendations to improve Centre-State relations and policy coordination
• Functions include discussing common interest issues, investigating disputes and recommending measures for better coordination between Centre and States
• Council acts as advisory body with non-binding decisions, focusing on dialogue, cooperation and consensus-based decision-making process
• Composition includes Prime Minister as Chairman, Chief Ministers of states, Union Ministers and administrators of Union Territories
• Meets at least three times a year, with Standing Committee ensuring continuous consultation and follow-up on important issues
• Supported by Inter-State Council Secretariat established in 1991, also serving as secretariat for Zonal Councils since 2011
• Plays key role in strengthening federal structure by promoting cooperation, resolving disputes and ensuring balanced governance across India