Before attaining full-statehood, which among the following states was categorized as an "autonomous state"?

The correct answer is Meghalaya . Key Points Meghalaya was categorized as an "autonomous state" before it attained full statehood on 21 January 1972 . The Assam Reorganization (Meghalaya) Act, 1969 granted Meghalaya the status of an autonomous state within Assam, as per the provisions of Article 244(A) of the Indian Constitution. Under this status, Meghalaya had its own legislative assembly and executive council, giving it partial autonomy while still being part of Assam. The creation of the autonomous state was a result of the aspirations of the Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo communities for separate administrative recognition. Later, Meghalaya was granted full statehood in 1972 , making it a separate state distinct from Assam. Additional Information Mizoram: Mizoram was initially a district of Assam before becoming a Union Territory in 1972 and achieving full statehood on 20 February 1987 . The demand for statehood stemmed from ethnic and cultural aspirations of the Mizo people. Assam: Assam is one of the oldest states in India, formed in 1947 following India’s independence. It served as the parent state from which other northeastern states like Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh emerged. Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh was initially a part of the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) . It became a Union Territory in 1972 and attained full statehood on 20 February 1987 . Meghalaya: Meghalaya, meaning the "Abode of Clouds," was carved out from Assam as an autonomous state in 1969 . It became a full-fledged state on 21 January 1972 , following widespread demands for autonomy by indigenous communities. Important Points Article 244(A): This article of the Indian Constitution allows for the creation of an autonomous state within a state, providing special administrative and legislative powers. State Reorganization: The reorganization of states in India was largely carried out to address linguistic, cultural, and ethnic aspirations of various communities. Northeast India: The northeastern region of India comprises seven states (often referred to as "Seven Sisters") and has seen significant political and administrative changes post-independence. Meghalaya’s Tribal Communities: The Khasi, Jaintia, and Garo tribes played a pivotal role in advocating for Meghalaya’s autonomy and eventual statehood.