Federalism
Stuid
As per our constitution, India is a ‘Union of States’. Our country has a federal structure. Let us explore the reasons behind why India is called a quasi-federal country.
Federalism is basically a compound mode of two governments. It involves the mixture of two governments, state government and the central government. Federalism in India can be defined as a distribution of authority between local, national and state governments. Much like the Canadian model of political organization.
In federalism, a dual machinery of government functions for the welfare of people. Usually there are two levels of government under federalism. The central authority takes care of the major affairs of the country. The ‘local’ governments are in charge of the day to day functions of their particular regions.
As mentioned earlier, the Indian constitution states that India is a federal country. We basically have two levels of parliament, the Union government at the center and the individual State governments at the state level.
Features of Federalism
Let us look into the features of federalism. The characteristics of federalism reflect its true essence.
- There should be at least two levels of governance in the country. The entire power will not ‘rest’ on one government.
- All the levels of governance will rule over the same citizens, it is just that their jurisdiction will be different. Each level of government will have assigned powers for forming laws, legislating and executing these laws. Every level of government has its own importance.
- It is important that powers and duties of all governments are listed down in the constitution of the country, ensuring a federal system of governance.
- It should be noted that one level of government cannot make unilateral changes/amendments to the provisions of the constitution. For coming into effect, the changes shall be approved by all levels of the government.
- In a federal state, conflicts may arise between different levels of government. It is the responsibility of the courts to interfere in such situations and reach a resolution.
- There should be a proper system in place for revenue sharing. The various levels of government should have their autonomous revenue streams. In case, one government depends on the other for funds, it can’t be considered truly autonomous in nature.
India - A Federal State
Interestingly, the word ‘federation’ is never mentioned in our constitution! Instead, it is said that India is a ‘Union of States’. According to a few historians, India is a quasi-federal country. I.e. It is a federal state which has features of a unitary government.
We have the government at the center (Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha), state governments, Vidhan Sabhas and the Vidhan Parishad. Ultimately, we have the Municipal Corporations and the Panchayats. They are forms of local governance.
There is a clear demarcation about legislative powers and jurisdictions.
- The Union List comprises subjects of national importance. This includes defense, finance, railways etc. The Central Government has the sole authority to make decisions on these subjects.
- Transport, trade, commerce, and agriculture come under the State List. The state government is the final authority for framing laws on these subjects.
- Both the Union and state governments form laws on the topics included under the Concurrent List. Includes subjects like education, forests, trade unions etc. If a conflict arises between the two governments, the decision of the Union Government tends to prevail. It is considered as the final authority.
Answer) Federalism is basically a compound mode of two governments. It involves the mixture of two governments, state government and the central government.
Answer) Defense, finance, railways etc.
Answer) Both the Union and state governments form laws on the topics included under the Concurrent List.