Study of state size optimization framework in India

Abstract

This paper aims to look into politic-economic model which addresses some question regarding the optimum size of the nation. The model is based on the finding of Alberto Alesina and Enrico Spolaore. Their main findings are mainly three points. First, more the democratization in the society more will be the secession. Second, if democratic process is adopted then outcome will be inefficient and more number of countries will spurt out and third, number of countries in equilibrium is increasing with increasing number of integration. Our main aim is to use this model in Indian state scenario and try to answer some of the question regarding the size of states. We have also used heuristic and statistical approach to bring some conclusion regarding the state (dis) integration. This paper is organized as follows: Introduction: which establish the need of this study in Indian context, Section II: It provides a brief history of Indian state change, Section III: this explains the model adopted for the study, Section IV: Studies the performance of different states (sizes) on the socio- economic wellbeing of its citizens, Section V: We have discussed the recent case of state bifurcation in UP, MP and Bihar and how has is fared out since then for its citizens, Section VI: discusses other challenges necessary to be kept in mind before reorganisation and finally we conclude in Section VII.