Part I of the Indian Constitution (Articles 1 to 4) outlines the structure of India as a Union of States. It provides legal grounds for forming, renaming, merging, or altering Indian states and territories. These provisions have shaped India’s political geography—examples include the formation of Telangana and the renaming of West Bengal.

BulletsIn

• India defined as “Union of States” under Article 1; not called a federation.
• Parliament can create, merge, rename, or alter state boundaries (Article 3).
• No state’s approval needed for creation/merger; only opinion sought.
• President’s recommendation required before introducing such a bill.
• Article 2 allows new states to join Union; no President-consult condition.
• Sikkim added to India via Article 2A; Telangana created under Article 3.
• Laws under Articles 2 & 3 amend First and Fourth Schedules (Article 4).
• Article 3 applies to Union Territories too, in some clauses.
• 40th Amendment (1976) gave Union control over ocean wealth, EEZs.
• EEZ offers “sovereign rights,” not full sovereignty; surface waters are international.