Describe the special provisions meant for North-East India.

North-East India, comprising the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim, is characterized by its unique geographical, cultural, and historical context. The region faces specific challenges, and the Constitution of India incorporates special provisions to address these concerns and promote the overall development of North-East India.

1. Article 371:
   Article 371 of the Indian Constitution contains special provisions for several states in North-East India, including Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland. These provisions grant a degree of autonomy to these states in matters related to their culture, customs, and traditional institutions.

2. Inner Line Permit (ILP) System:
   The Inner Line Permit is a special provision applicable to Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Mizoram. It restricts the entry of individuals from outside these states to safeguard the cultural and demographic integrity of the indigenous communities. Visitors need to obtain a permit to enter these regions.

3. Sixth Schedule:
   The Sixth Schedule of the Constitution provides for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. It establishes autonomous district councils (ADCs) and regional councils to manage local governance and preserve the cultural and social identity of tribal communities.

4. Article 275:
   Article 275 empowers the President of India to provide grants-in-aid to the states of Assam, Nagaland, and Sikkim to promote the welfare of Scheduled Tribes in the state and raise the level of administration.

5. Special Status for Sikkim:
   Sikkim enjoys a special status under Article 371F, which grants it autonomy in matters related to its administration and legislation. It allows the state to have its own laws and regulations to protect the interests of the local population.

6. North-Eastern Council (NEC):
   The North-Eastern Council, established by the North Eastern Council Act of 1971, is a statutory body that serves as a regional planning and development agency. It comprises the eight North-Eastern states and is instrumental in coordinating and implementing development projects in the region.

7. Special Industrial Package:
   To promote economic development, the North-East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIPP) provides special incentives and tax exemptions for industries in North-East India. This aims to attract investments and boost industrial growth in the region.

8. Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR):
   The Bodoland Territorial Region in Assam, created under the Bodoland Territorial Region Accord, provides political and cultural safeguards for the Bodo community. It establishes a Bodoland Territorial Council with legislative and executive powers.

9. Peace Accords and Special Arrangements:
   Various peace accords and agreements have been signed with insurgent groups in the North-East to address issues related to ethnicity, autonomy, and governance. These accords include the Mizo Accord (1986), Assam Accord (1985), and the Naga Peace Accord (ongoing negotiations), each outlining specific arrangements and provisions.

These special provisions recognize and respect the diverse cultural, social, and historical backgrounds of the North-Eastern states. They aim to empower the region, preserve its distinct identity, and foster inclusive development. However, the effectiveness of these provisions is an ongoing subject of discussion and debate, and efforts continue to ensure the holistic development of North-East India.