Study Materials
General Studies - Polity
Federalism
1 Meaning
Federalism is a system where power is shared between a central government and regional units (states/provinces).
In India, power is divided among the Centre, States, and Local Governments, balancing national unity with regional diversity.
2. General Characteristics of Federalism
- Division of Powers
Clear separation of subjects for the Centre and States → prevents overlap. - Supremacy of the Constitution
A written constitution guarantees powers and checks misuse. - Independent Judiciary
Courts interpret the Constitution and resolve Centre–State disputes. - Bicameral Legislature
The Upper House often represents the States (e.g., Rajya Sabha). - Flexibility
Power-sharing can evolve with changing needs (cooperative federalism)
3. Significance of Indian Federalism
- Accommodates Diversity
Allows states to address linguistic, cultural, and geographic needs. - Ensures Effective Governance
Distributes workload → better policy implementation. - Deepens Democracy
Power is decentralised → people participate at multiple levels. - Protects Rights
States can tailor policies for minorities and vulnerable groups.
4. Federal Provisions in the Constitution
Article | Provision |
Art. 1 | India is a “Union of States”. |
Art. 79 | Bicameral Parliament (Rajya Sabha represents states). |
Art. 131 | SC resolves Centre–State disputes. |
Art. 246 + 7th Schedule | Union, State, Concurrent lists (subjects division). |
Art. 368 | Federal provisions need ratification by half of the states. |
5. Unitary Features of the Constitution
- States Not Indestructible
- Art. 3: Parliament can alter state boundaries/names.
- Emergency Provisions
- Art. 352: National Emergency.
- Art. 356: President’s Rule.
- Strong Union Legislature
- Art. 248: Residuary powers with Parliament.
- Art. 249: Parliament can legislate on the State List in the national interest.
- Art. 254: Union laws override State laws (Concurrent List).
- Strong Union Executive
- Art. 256: Centre can direct states.
- Single Citizenship
- Uniform rights irrespective of state.
- All-India Services
- IAS, IPS, IFS → Centre’s administrative influence in States.
- Integrated Judiciary
- SC → apex; ensures uniformity of law.
6.Why is India called “Quasi-Federal”?
Because India displays both federal and unitary features:
- Federal: Dual government, divided powers, independent judiciary.
- Unitary: Strong Centre, emergency powers, single constitution.
Ambedkar:
“Our Constitution is federal in normal times but unitary in emergencies.”
Indian federalism is a cooperative, flexible system that balances unity with diversity while giving the Centre enough strength to maintain national integrity.
