What is the significance of special category status in the context of Indian states' demands

1. Special category status provides certain benefits to economically weaker states in India to promote their development. 2. States like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh seek special category status due to their lower levels of infrastructure, industrialization, and human development. 3. Special category status offers preferential treatment in the form of additional central assistance, tax breaks, and subsidies for critical sectors. 4. It helps in promoting investments, creating job opportunities, and improving overall socio-economic indicators in underdeveloped states. 5. These states argue that special status is essential to bridge the development gap and enhance their competitiveness with more affluent states. 6. Despite the eligibility criteria set by the National Development Council, there have been issues with granting and sustaining special category status, leading to ongoing demands and debates.