Panaji, September 07 (H.S.): Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah on Monday chaired the 28th meeting of the Western Zonal Council in Panaji, Goa, with the meeting focusing on strengthening coordination between the Centre and western States and resolving issues of common concern.

The Western Zonal Council comprises Goa, Gujarat and Maharashtra, along with the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. The book council provides a platform for States and the Centre to discuss inter-State issues and promote cooperation.

Shah emphasised the importance of cooperative federalism and highlighted the role of Zonal Councils in resolving issues through dialogue and coordinated action. The meeting also covers matters of national and regional importance, including the speedy investigation of crimes against women and children, implementation of Fast Track Special Courts, emergency response services, food safety, banking facilities, nutrition, education and healthcare.

Other areas include power-sector reforms, urban planning, strengthening the cooperative sector, cybercrime and digital infrastructure. The Centre said Zonal Councils have emerged as an important mechanism for cooperation between States, Union Territories and the Union government.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, 70 meetings of various Zonal Councils and their Standing Committees have been held since June 2014, reflecting the government's emphasis on cooperative federalism and coordinated governance.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar