Correct Option
The Consultative Committees of Members of Parliament, including those specific to Railway Zones, are constituted by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs. These committees function as informal forums designed to facilitate discussions between Members of Parliament and various ministries regarding policy matters, ongoing schemes, and public concerns. They serve an advisory role and are distinct from parliamentary committees established under the Constitution. Each ministry typically has such a committee, comprising MPs drawn from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Given the vast and complex operations of the Indian Railways, zonal-level consultative committees are also constituted to address regional issues.
Incorrect Options
Option (a) President of India: The President of India's functions are primarily constitutional and executive. The formation of informal consultative committees of Members of Parliament does not fall within the President's constitutional responsibilities.
Option (b) Ministry of Railways: While the Consultative Committee for Railway Zones directly concerns the Ministry of Railways and its operations, the administrative responsibility for constituting and coordinating these committees across all ministries lies with the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
Option (d) Ministry of Transport: The Ministry of Railways operates as an independent ministry. The Ministry of Transport (or related ministries like Road Transport and Highways) is separate and is not responsible for the constitution of consultative committees pertaining to the Ministry of Railways.