Federalism

A system of government in which the power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country (States).

Unitary: One level of government or sub-units are subordinate. Federal: Two or more levels, each has its own jurisdiction.

1. Two or more levels. 2. Different tiers govern same citizens but have separate jurisdiction (legislation/taxation). 3. Constitution guarantees existence of each tier. 4. Courts act as umpire.

Independent states coming together on their own to form a bigger unit. They retain identity. (USA, Switzerland, Australia).

A large country decides to divide its power between constituent states and national government. Centre is usually more powerful. (India, Spain, Belgium).

1. Union List (Defense, Foreign Affairs - Centre makes laws). 2. State List (Police, Agriculture - State makes laws). 3. Concurrent List (Education, Marriage - Both make laws, Centre prevails in conflict).

Subjects not in any list (e.g., Computer Software). Union Government has the power to legislate on these.

Earlier had special status (Art 370). Now a Union Territory (since 2019).

Areas too small to be independent states but couldn't be merged. They are run by Central Government (Chandigarh, Lakshadweep, Delhi).

Requires 2/3rd majority in both houses of Parliament + Ratification by legislatures of at least half of the total states.

States created on the basis of language (1956). It made administration easier and united the country. (Andhra was first).

No National Language. Hindi is Official Language (40%). 21 other Scheduled Languages. English continues for official purposes.

After 1990, no single party got majority in Lok Sabha. Regional parties grew. Centre had to respect state autonomy. Federalism strengthened.

When power is taken away from Central and State governments and given to local government.

It gave constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions (Rural local govt). Mandatory elections, reservation for women (1/3rd) and SC/ST.

A council consisting of ward members (Panch) and a President (Sarpanch) at village level.

The general body of the village consisting of all registered voters. It meets 2-3 times a year to approve budget.

The political head of a Municipal Corporation (Big city).

Local people know local problems best. It deepens democracy.

District level body. Chairperson is the political head.

India has 28 States and 8 UTs.

Union List has 97 subjects (now 100).

State List has 66 subjects (now 61).

Concurrent List has 47 subjects (now 52).

Odisha/Tindivanam examples of federalism.

Pokhran is in Rajasthan (nuclear test).

Hindi is mother tongue of only 40%.

States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) 1953.

Nagaland/Uttarakhand/Jharkhand created recently.

Usually Governors act as agents of Centre.

Supreme Court in Bommai Case (1994) strengthened states.

1/3rd seats reserved for women in Local bodies.

State Election Commission conducts local elections.

36 lakh representatives in local bodies.

Brazil experienced decentralization (Porto Alegre).

Scheduled Languages are in 8th Schedule.

English removed in 1965 (planned) but continued.

Constitution Enforced

States Reorganisation Act

73rd/74th Amendment passed