Federalism in the Indian Constitution

A system where power is shared between a national government and regional (state) governments, each autonomous in its own sphere.

A system where citizens have dual identities and allegiances, belonging both to their region and to the nation.

A written document that outlines the details of the federal system, defining powers and responsibilities of both national and state governments. It is considered supreme law.

An independent body, like a court, that resolves disputes between the national and state governments.

The principle that relationships between the national government and states should be based on cooperation and collaboration, even while recognizing diversity.

The division of powers between the national (Union) government and the state governments, with each having clearly defined areas of authority.

The highest authority that resolves disputes regarding which levels of government have control over specific powers, based on the constitutional provisions.

The national government for the entire country, also called the central government in India's federal system.

The division of powers between the central and state governments in India, with the central government having significant control over economic and financial matters.

The Indian Constitution's model of federalism with a strong central government, designed to ensure unity and address national challenges.

Parliament's power to create new states, alter boundaries, or change state names, demonstrating the central government's authority over state formation.

Emergency provisions that allow the central government to take control of state functions and make laws on state subjects during emergencies, shifting power from the states to the center.

The central government's control over significant revenue-generating sources, making states dependent on grants and financial assistance from the center.

The Governor's power to delay or completely reject bills passed by the state legislature, allowing the central government to influence state legislation.

The Indian Constitution's framework that prioritizes national unity and stability by establishing a strong central government with extensive powers.

The central government's role in addressing national challenges like poverty, illiteracy, and wealth inequality through planning and coordination with states.

The central government can legislate on matters from the State list if the move is approved by the Rajya Sabha. This demonstrates the power of the central government and the potential for overriding state authority.

The central government has control over IAS and IPS officers, regardless of their state postings. This includes disciplinary actions and removal from service, highlighting the influence of the central government on state administration.

Articles 33 and 34 authorize Parliament to protect actions taken by central or state officials during martial law, ensuring order and stability. This provision strengthens the Union government during critical situations.

Some groups advocate for a shift in power towards states, with greater authority and resources assigned to them. This is often referred to as devolution of powers.

A key demand for autonomy is financial independence for states. This means having greater control over revenue sources and resources, aiming to decrease reliance on the central government.

States often criticize the central government's influence on state administrations. They desire greater control over administrative functions, seeking to reduce central interference.

Autonomy demands often involve cultural and linguistic issues. Examples include opposition to Hindi dominance in Tamil Nadu and efforts to promote Punjabi language and culture.

The Governor, appointed by the central government, is a non-elected official whose actions are often perceived as interference by the central government in state affairs. This contributes to tensions in the federal system.

A system that divides power between a central government and regional governments (states), creating a balance of authority.

A system that ensures that power is not concentrated in one place, contributing to stability and a sense of shared responsibility.

India's Constitution divides power among three lists: Union List (for national issues like defense), State List (for state-specific issues like education), and Concurrent List (for shared responsibilities like forests).

Powers not specifically assigned to the Union or State Lists; these are leftover powers, typically assigned to the central government. Think of general, overarching powers that are not explicitly mentioned.

Our Constitution has provisions that strengthen the central government, like the power to impose President's Rule in states, ensuring national unity and stability in emergencies.

A temporary takeover of a state government by the Union government, triggered when the state government is unable to function according to the Constitution.

The power of the Governor to recommend the dismissal of a state government and the suspension or dissolution of the state assembly, leading to potential political transitions.

The principle that states should be created based on shared cultural and linguistic identities to ensure greater representation and autonomy.

The process of reorganizing states based on linguistic identities, leading to the creation of new states or adjustments to existing boundaries.

Disputes between states regarding the ownership or control of territories, often stemming from historical claims or differing interpretations of boundaries.

Conflicts between states over the sharing of river water resources, often leading to tensions due to the importance of water for drinking and agriculture.

The division of larger states into smaller ones, often driven by demands for greater representation, administrative efficiency, and to address specific regional needs.

The creation of a new state, Telangana, from Andhra Pradesh, reflecting the ongoing process of state reorganization in India.