The Shillong Agreement is a historic agreement signed by the northeastern states of India on the issue of insurgency and violence in the region. The agreement was signed on November 15, 1975, in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. The agreement was a joint effort by the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, and the leaders of the northeastern states to bring peace and stability to the region.

The Shillong Agreement was a significant step towards ending the insurgency and violence in the northeast region. The agreement recognized the unique socio-economic and cultural characteristics of the northeastern states and addressed the root causes of the insurgency. It also created a framework for cooperation and coordination among the northeastern states and the central government.

The agreement had several key provisions. The first provision was the creation of the Northeastern Council, a statutory body to promote the socio-economic development of the northeastern states. The council was to be headed by the Union Home Minister and included the chief ministers of the northeastern states as members.

The second provision was the introduction of a special economic package to the region. The package aimed to promote economic development, employment generation, and improve the standard of living of the people in the region.

The third provision was the introduction of a special dispensation for the northeast in matters of recruitment to central services. The aim was to ensure that the people from the region were adequately represented in the central services and to address the concerns of job opportunities for the people of the region.

The Shillong Agreement was a significant turning point in the history of northeastern India. It brought about a sense of unity and cooperation among the northeastern states and the central government. The agreement created a framework for dialogue and consultation on issues concerning the region. It also recognized the unique characteristics of the northeast and addressed the root causes of the insurgency.

The Shillong Agreement is an important topic for the UPSC exam. In recent years, there has been increased focus on issues related to the northeast region. Aspirants should prepare themselves with a comprehensive understanding of the agreement, its significance, and its impact on the socio-economic development of the region. With proper research and study, aspirants can easily crack the UPSC exam with flying colors.