Amit Shah Chairs 28th Western Zonal Council Meeting

The 28th Western Zonal Council meeting was chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Panaji, Goa, on 7 September 2026. The meeting was organised under the Inter-State Council Secretariat and included leaders from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, and the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

Western Zonal Council

The Western Zonal Council is a statutory advisory body created under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. Zonal councils in India were set up to promote inter-state coordination, regional consultation, and cooperative federalism among States and Union Territories.

Members and Structure

The Western Zonal Council covers Maharashtra, Gujarat, Goa, and the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The Goa Chief Minister serves as the Vice-Chairman of the council, and the Administrator of the Union Territory participates in the meetings as a member.

Agenda and Administrative Issues

The 2026 meeting discussed cooperative federalism, inter-state coordination, crimes against women, fast-track special courts, and village-level banking. Zonal councils also deal with issues such as border disputes, transport links, power sharing, and water-related matters between neighbouring States.

Important Facts for Exams

• Zonal councils in India were established under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956.
• India has five zonal councils, namely Northern, Central, Eastern, Western, and Southern.
• The Inter-State Council Secretariat provides organisational support for zonal council meetings.
• Fast-track special courts are used in India for time-bound disposal of specified criminal cases.

Related Institutional Facts

The President’s Colour is a ceremonial honour awarded to police and military units in India for distinguished service. The Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium is located in Taleigao, Goa, and is used for official and ceremonial events.