Key Points

Federalism is an institutional system that accommodates two sets of governments, one at the national level and one at the regional or state level. Each government is autonomous in its own sphere.

A federation typically has a dual system of government, a written constitution, a clear division of powers, and an independent judiciary to resolve disputes between the different levels of government.

Article 1 of the Indian Constitution describes India as a 'Union of States' rather than a 'Federation of States'. This emphasizes that the Indian union is indestructible and states do not have the right to secede.

The Constitution divides subjects into three lists: the Union List (for central government), the State List (for state governments), and the Concurrent List (for both). Residuary powers on unlisted subjects belong to the central government.

The Indian Constitution creates a federal system with a strong central government to ensure unity, integrity, and socio-economic development. This is evident in its financial powers and emergency provisions.

The Parliament has the power to form new states, alter the boundaries of existing states, or change their names. This highlights the central government's significant authority over the states' territorial integrity.

During an emergency, India's federal structure can be transformed into a highly centralized system. The central government gains the power to legislate on subjects in the State List.

The central government controls most major sources of revenue, making states financially dependent on grants and assistance from the centre. This gives the Union significant leverage over the states.

The Governor is appointed by the President and acts as the agent of the central government in the state. The Governor's power to recommend President's Rule and reserve bills for the President's assent is a source of controversy.

Article 356 allows the President to impose rule in a state if its government cannot function according to the Constitution. This provision has often been used for political reasons, leading to conflict.

Services like the IAS and IPS are common to both central and state governments, but the central government has ultimate control over them. This integrated administrative system strengthens the centre's authority.

States frequently demand greater autonomy in financial, administrative, and cultural matters. These demands often arise when different political parties are in power at the centre and in the states.

After independence, many new states were created to accommodate linguistic and cultural diversity, starting with the States Reorganisation Commission in 1953. This process continues to address regional aspirations.

Disputes between states are a common feature of Indian federalism, often concerning border territories like Belgaum or the sharing of river waters like the Kaveri dispute.

The judiciary, especially the Supreme Court, acts as an umpire in disputes between the centre and states or among states. It interprets the constitutional provisions regarding the division of powers.

The Constitution provides special status to some states like those in the North-East to address their unique social and historical circumstances. This feature is known as asymmetrical federalism.

Article 370 historically granted a special, autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. In 2019, this special status was revoked, and the state was reorganised into two Union Territories.

The era of coalition governments at the centre since the 1990s has strengthened federalism. It increased the influence of regional parties and forced greater respect for state autonomy.