Part XXI - Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions • Article

Article 371I Simplified: Special provision with respect to the State of Goa

Article 371I was introduced when Goa transitioned from a Union Territory to a full state in 1987. It guarantees that the Legislative Assembly of Goa must consist of at least 30 members, ensuring proper democratic representation despite Goa's small geographic size and population.

Official Text

Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, the Legislative Assembly of the State of Goa shall consist of not less than thirty members.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

When Goa became a full state in 1987, it was very small. Normally, states need at least 60 assembly members, but this special rule let Goa have a smaller assembly with at least 30 members so it could govern itself easily.

Student Mode

Inserted by the 56th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1987, which granted full statehood to Goa (previously part of the Union Territory of Goa, Daman and Diu). To accommodate Goa's small population and geographic size, Article 371I overrides the standard minimum assembly size of 60 members specified in Article 170, setting a lower constitutional threshold of not less than 30 members.

Example

Although standard Indian states require at least 60 MLAs (under Article 170), Goa is allowed to function democratically with only 40 assembly seats because Article 371I permits a minimum threshold of 30 members.

Key Takeaway

Mandates that the Legislative Assembly of Goa shall consist of not less than 30 members, acting as a size exemption to standard assembly requirements.

FAQs

How many members does the Goa Legislative Assembly actually have today?

It currently has 40 members, which is well above the minimum threshold of 30 required by Article 371I.

What other states have similar assembly size exemptions?

Similar minimum assembly size exemptions are provided for Sikkim (at least 30 under Article 371F), Mizoram (at least 40 under Article 371G), and Arunachal Pradesh (at least 30 under Article 371H).

Quiz

Which amendment granted statehood to Goa and inserted Article 371I in 1987?

Answer: 56th Amendment

What is the minimum number of members mandated for the Goa assembly under Article 371I?

Answer: 30 members