Chapter 2 · Question 2
List the key features of federalism.
Answer
Direct Answer
Federalism has two or more levels of government, separate jurisdictions, constitutional division of powers, independent courts to interpret the Constitution, financial autonomy, and rules that cannot be changed unilaterally by one level.
Simple Explanation
Federalism features two or more government levels, separate constitutional jurisdiction for each, independent courts for dispute resolution, financial autonomy, and rules that neither level can change alone.
Exam-Ready Structure
The key features of a federal system are:
• Two or more levels (tiers) of government: At least a central government and governments at the state or provincial level. In India, there is a third tier — local government (Panchayats and Municipalities).
• Constitutional division of powers: The constitution clearly specifies which subjects each level of government can legislate on. In India, this is done through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
• Constitutional supremacy and rigidity: The constitution is the supreme law of the land. Provisions regarding federal structure cannot be amended unilaterally by either level; they require the consent of both the centre and states (special majority in Parliament plus ratification by half the states).
• Independent judiciary: Courts, particularly the Supreme Court, interpret the constitution and resolve disputes between the centre and states or among states. This ensures that neither level oversteps its constitutional authority.
• Financial autonomy: Each level of government has its own sources of revenue, clearly defined by the constitution, so that neither level is financially dependent on the other for its functioning.
• Dual objectives: Federalism aims to safeguard and promote the unity of the country while also accommodating regional diversity.
Key Points
- Federalism has two or more levels of government, separate jurisdictions, constitutional division of powers, independent courts to interpret the Constitution, financial autonomy, and rules that cannot be changed unilaterally by one level.