Article Today, Hyderabad:
The debate over regional imbalance in political power has returned with fresh intensity. Analysts argue that the new Modi 3.0 Cabinet once again reveals a deep North-South divide. While North India secures the key portfolios and large financial support, the South continues to face neglect in crucial matters of governance and development.
Vice-President’s Post Carries Little Weight
The recent move to give the Vice-President’s post to a leader from the South has raised questions about its practical impact. Political observers point out that this position holds symbolic value but brings little economic or developmental advantage. When M. Venkaiah Naidu served as Vice-President earlier, Andhra Pradesh received neither the promised special category status nor sufficient funds for Amaravati’s development. Critics say the post serves political optics, not regional progress.
Key Portfolios Remain with the North
In the Cabinet formation, the disparity is stark. Out of 13 ministers from the South, only Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman holds a critical portfolio. Others, like H.D. Kumaraswamy with Heavy Industries and Prahlad Joshi with Consumer Affairs, received less influential departments. Andhra Pradesh’s Rammohan Naidu was given Civil Aviation, while Telangana’s representatives were allotted relatively minor roles. In contrast, North Indian leaders hold Home, Defence, and External Affairs — the most powerful ministries. The absence of even a single Cabinet berth for Tamil Nadu underlines this imbalance.
Unequal Share in Budget Allocations
The financial picture also highlights the disparity. Southern states contribute more than 30% of the national GDP. Yet, they receive a smaller share of central allocations. Uttar Pradesh alone secured ₹31,962 crore, while all five southern states together received only ₹28,152 crore. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy recently attacked this imbalance, arguing that for every rupee collected from Telangana, only 42 paise return to the state.
Population-Based Funding Punishes the South
The allocation system based on population has further hurt the South. States like Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh managed population growth successfully and raised higher tax revenues. However, their lower population means they receive less central funding. In contrast, large northern states, with higher populations but weaker tax contributions, benefit disproportionately. Economists warn that this policy undermines fiscal justice and could deepen regional resentment.
Rising Discontent in the South
As these disparities grow sharper, anti-North sentiments are beginning to surface more openly across the South. Political leaders and civil society groups argue that continued neglect could threaten national unity. They stress that without fair financial and political recognition, the South’s contribution to India’s economy will remain undervalued. Analysts caution that this imbalance, if left unaddressed, may fuel stronger regional movements in the coming years.
