An idea following Article 370

An Idea for National Integration: Twinning Indian States

Now that Article 370 has effectively been rendered toothless, and all states and Union Territories are—at least constitutionally—on equal footing, it might be time to think beyond symbolism and explore new ways of strengthening national integration.

Here’s an idea.

The Concept: Twinning States

Across the world, cities are often “twinned” with counterparts in other countries. In practice, these arrangements tend to be ceremonial—plaques, delegations, and little else.

What if we borrowed the concept but gave it real substance?

Instead of cities, we twin Indian states and Union Territories—with tangible, measurable benefits.

How Twinning Could Work

• Tourism incentives: Tourists traveling between twin states could receive discounts, vouchers, or priority access to state-run facilities.
• Employment mobility: Employers hiring associates from the twin state could be incentivized through subsidies or tax benefits.
• Business encouragement: Setting up businesses in each other’s states could attract simplified approvals or fiscal incentives.
• Trade and tax benefits: Preferential tax treatment for inter-state trade between the paired regions.
• Cultural and educational exchange: Student exchange programs, language immersion initiatives, and shared cultural festivals.

The Annual Draw

Each year—say on Independence Day—lots could be drawn to determine which states and UTs are twinned for the year.

For instance, Jammu & Kashmir might be twinned with Tamil Nadu one year, and Mizoram the next. Over time, every state would develop living, working relationships with regions vastly different from itself.

Why This Matters

India speaks endlessly of unity in diversity, but in practice, most citizens live, work, and retire within narrow geographical and cultural comfort zones.

This system would gently—but persistently—push Indians to engage with unfamiliar languages, cuisines, climates, and cultures, not through moral instruction, but through incentives.

Integration Without Coercion

National integration cannot be manufactured through slogans or legislation alone. It grows when people see personal, economic, and social value in crossing boundaries.

This model does exactly that—without coercion, without cultural erasure, and without grandstanding.

So yes—this idea makes sense. The only real question is whether anyone in power is willing to think this imaginatively.