A Review of Literature on "Demands for Smaller States in India:Historical Background and Emerging Trends"

The creation of small states in India assumed greater significance post the creation of three new states in 2000. The creation of Telangana very recently has once again thrown open the discourse on viability of small states in India. In the contemporary movements for smaller states, language is no longer the guiding principle. Rather, the thrust of such movements has been mainly developmental issues. The size of the new state may be a crucial factor, but not the sole factor in its creation. In the further division of states, it is essential that attention is paid to local demands, cultural issues and most importantly the economic viabilities of such states.