Chapter 7: Federalism in Indian Constitution| Class 11 Polity Notes

The concept of federalism in the Indian Constitution reflects the intricate balance between recognizing regional diversity and upholding national unity. Envisaged by the leaders of the national movement, federalism was seen as essential for governing a vast and culturally diverse country like India.

Federalism in Indian Constitution

Before Independence, Indian leaders recognized the need to decentralize power to govern such a diverse country effectively. The diversity in regions and languages required acknowledgment, with power-sharing among different regions and self-governance within each region being logical for democracy.

During Partition negotiations, a compromise formula granting significant powers to regions was considered due to the Muslim League’s demand for greater Muslim representation. After Partition, the Constituent Assembly aimed to create a government based on unity and cooperation between the center and the states, with separate powers for the states. The Indian Constitution emphasizes cooperation between the center and the states while recognizing diversity.

Interestingly, the Indian Constitution doesn’t use the term “federation” but refers to India as a “Union of States” in Article 1. The goal of living together is to ensure everyone’s happiness and mutual support.

The Indian Constitution establishes two levels of government: the central government for the entire nation and state governments for each unit or state. Disputes over powers between the center and the states can be resolved by the judiciary based on constitutional provisions. The Constitution clearly delineates subjects under the exclusive jurisdiction of the center and those under the states. Economic and financial powers are centralized in the central government, leaving states with significant responsibilities but limited revenue sources.

Historical Context: Pre-Independence Perspectives

Even before Independence, Indian leaders acknowledged the necessity of distributing powers between the central and provincial governments.

Recognizing the regional and linguistic diversity of Indian society, it was imperative to ensure that people from different regions and linguistic backgrounds had a say in governance.

Principles of Unity and Cooperation

Following the decision to partition India, the Constituent Assembly aimed to establish a government based on principles of unity and cooperation between the center and the states.

While granting significant powers to the states, the federal system emphasized collaboration to maintain national cohesion.

Absence of the Term “Federation”

Interestingly, the Indian Constitution does not explicitly use the term “federation.” Instead, it refers to India as a “Union of States,” highlighting the collective nature of the nation.

Article 1 of the Constitution defines India as a union comprising various states and territories.

Division of Powers

The Indian Constitution delineates powers between the central and state governments, establishing two distinct levels of governance. Disputes regarding the allocation of powers are resolved by the judiciary based on constitutional provisions.

Economic and Financial Centralization

An important aspect of the division of powers is the centralization of economic and financial authority in the hands of the central government. While states bear significant responsibilities, they have limited revenue sources compared to the central government.

Chart of Power Distribution

A chart provided within the Constitution outlines the distribution of powers between the center and the states, clarifying the respective domains of authority. This visual representation aids in understanding the intricate structure of federalism in India.

Conclusion

Federalism in the Indian Constitution embodies the spirit of unity in diversity, acknowledging the diverse cultural, linguistic, and regional identities within the nation. By balancing powers between the center and the states while fostering cooperation, federalism plays a vital role in maintaining national cohesion and democratic governance.

Despite challenges such as economic centralization, the federal system continues to serve as a cornerstone of India’s democratic framework, ensuring equitable representation and governance across diverse regions.

Federalism in Indian Constitution- FAQs

What is the significance of federalism in the Indian Constitution?

Federalism in the Indian Constitution is vital for balancing powers between the central and state governments, accommodating regional diversity while upholding national unity, and fostering democratic governance.

How does the Indian Constitution describe the country’s political structure?

The Indian Constitution refers to the country as a “Union of States,” emphasizing the collective nature of the nation comprising various states and territories.

How are disputes regarding the allocation of powers resolved in the Indian federal system?

Disputes concerning the distribution of powers between the central and state governments are resolved by the judiciary based on constitutional provisions.

What is the role of economic and financial centralization in Indian federalism?

The Indian Constitution centralizes economic and financial authority in the hands of the central government, presenting a challenge to state governments with limited revenue sources.

Where can I find detailed information about the division of powers between the central and state governments?

The Indian Constitution provides a chart outlining the distribution of powers between the center and the states, offering clarity on the respective domains of authority for each level of governance.