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Federalism

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motivationbhiya
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Federalism (Chapter 2 - Civics)

1. Introduction to Federalism

 Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central


authority and constituent units like states or provinces.
 It is important for managing diverse societies by ensuring both unity and regional
autonomy.
 Example: India, USA, Canada.

2. Key Features of Federalism

1. Two or more levels of government: In federal systems, power is shared between:


o Central Government (Union Government).
o State Governments.
o Local Governments (in some countries).
2. Written Constitution: The division of powers and responsibilities between the central
and state governments is clearly outlined in a written constitution.
3. Division of Powers: Powers are divided between the central and state governments in
specific areas. This is done through:
o Union List: Subjects on which the central government can legislate (e.g.,
defense, foreign affairs).
o State List: Subjects on which the state governments can legislate (e.g., police,
health).
o Concurrent List: Subjects on which both levels can legislate (e.g., education,
marriage laws).
4. Supremacy of the Constitution: The constitution is the supreme law of the land. Any
conflict between central and state laws is resolved by the judiciary.

3. Types of Federalism

1. Coming Together Federation:


o In this type, independent states come together to form a larger unit, while
maintaining their autonomy.
o Example: USA, Switzerland.
2. Holding Together Federation:
o In this type, a large country decides to divide its power between the central
government and various regions or states.
o Example: India, Spain.
o It often involves unequal power sharing, where some states have more powers
than others.
4. Federalism in India

 Indian Federalism: India is a holding together federal system, where power is divided
between the central government and states.
 Key Features:
1. Union List: Matters on which only the central government can legislate (e.g.,
defense, foreign policy).
2. State List: Matters on which states have the authority to legislate (e.g., policing,
agriculture).
3. Concurrent List: Matters on which both the center and states can legislate (e.g.,
education, marriage and divorce laws).
4. Residuary Powers: Any matter that does not fall into the above three lists is a
subject of central government jurisdiction.
 Examples of Federal Features in India:

o Union Government and State Governments share power.


o States' Rights: States have their own laws, governments, and structures, but they
must abide by the framework laid out by the Indian Constitution.
o Judicial Authority: The Supreme Court of India resolves disputes between the
center and states.

5. The Union and State Governments

 The Union Government has the power to make laws on subjects mentioned in the Union
List.
 The State Governments are responsible for making laws on subjects mentioned in the
State List.
 Concurrent List allows both levels of government to make laws on shared matters, but
in case of conflict, the central law prevails.

6. Why Federalism is Important

 Promotes Unity in Diversity: India has diverse languages, religions, and cultures.
Federalism helps in managing this diversity by giving states the power to deal with local
issues.
 Prevents Concentration of Power: Power is shared, preventing the concentration of
power in a single authority.
 Encourages Cooperation: Different levels of government cooperate with each other for
the welfare of the country.
7. Challenges to Indian Federalism

 Centralization of Power: Over time, the central government in India has acquired more
power, reducing the autonomy of states.
 Inter-State Disputes: There are conflicts between states over issues like water-sharing,
borders, and resources.
 Unequal Development: Some states are more developed than others, which causes
regional disparities.

8. Decentralization in India

 Panchayati Raj: Local self-government institutions in rural areas, giving powers to local
bodies.
 Municipalities: Local self-governments in urban areas.
 Both these institutions promote democracy at the grassroots level and allow people to
participate in decision-making.

9. Key Terms to Remember

 Federalism: A system of governance where power is shared between different levels of


government.
 Union List: Subjects on which only the central government can legislate.
 State List: Subjects on which only the state governments can legislate.
 Concurrent List: Subjects on which both central and state governments can legislate.
 Residuary Powers: Powers that are not mentioned in the Union, State, or Concurrent
lists and are vested in the central government.

Important Questions for Practice

1. What is the difference between the "Union List," "State List," and "Concurrent List"?
2. Explain the types of federalism with examples.
3. How does federalism in India promote unity in diversity?
4. Discuss the challenges to federalism in India.
5. Why is decentralization important in a federal system?

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