The Constitution of India Part I: The Union and its Territory (Article 1 to 4)

I

Part I: The Union and its Territory

Defines India as a federal union and establishes the framework for its territory and states. It answers the fundamental question: What is India's geographical and political structure?

1

Name and territory of the Union

Declares India as a "Union of States" rather than a federation. This emphasizes the indestructible nature of the Union while states can be reorganized. Contains the First Schedule listing states and union territories.

2

Admission or establishment of new states

Empowers Parliament to admit new states into the Union or establish new states on terms and conditions it deems fit. Example: Sikkim was admitted under this provision.

3

Formation of new states and alteration of boundaries

Gives Parliament power to form new states, alter areas, boundaries, or names of existing states. This power demonstrates India's flexible federalism. Used to create Telangana, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, etc.

4

Laws under Articles 2 and 3

Provides that laws made under Articles 2 and 3 are not considered "amendments" under Article 368, thus requiring only simple majority in Parliament, not the special majority needed for constitutional amendments.