Bill would replace three NE Council nominees with two non-officials

It also expands the Council's powers to discuss and advise on matters of common interest among the northeastern states.

Who it concerns: The North-Eastern Council, the President of India, the Central Government, and the Planning Commission of India.

What the bill does

• Substitutes the provision for three President-nominated members with two non-official members nominated by the President and one member of the Planning Commission of India in charge of the north-eastern region.
• Inserts a new section specifying that the term of office for the two non-official members is three years, extendable for a further period not exceeding two years.
• Empowers the Central Government to determine the allowances or remuneration for the non-official members.
• Adds a provision allowing the Council to discuss and advise the Central and State Governments on matters of common interest, including economic/social planning, inter-State transport/communications, and power/flood control projects.
• Updates references to the 'Department of Development of North-Eastern Region' to reflect its status as a Ministry.

Also in the document

• The Bill is an amendment to an existing Act (North-Eastern Council Act, 1971).
• The Statement of Objects and Reasons cites a recommendation from the Second Administrative Reforms Commission to restore conflict resolution provisions.
• The Bill delegates power to the Central Government to set remuneration for specific members.