2 minConstitutional Provision
Constitutional Provision

Federalism

What is Federalism?

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units like states or provinces. It embodies a division of powers and functions between two levels of government, each acting directly on the people.

Historical Background

In India, federalism was adopted after independence to accommodate the country's vast diversity. The Government of India Act 1935 provided a basis for federal structure. The Constitution of India establishes a quasi-federal system with a strong central government.

Key Points

10 points
  • 1.

    Division of powers between the Union Government and State Governments

  • 2.

    Seventh Schedule of the Constitution lists the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List

  • 3.

    Independent judiciary to interpret the Constitution and resolve disputes between the Union and States

  • 4.

    Written Constitution guaranteeing the division of powers

  • 5.

    Bicameral legislature with representation of states in the Rajya Sabha

  • 6.

    Financial autonomy to states through revenue sharing and grants

  • 7.

    Emergency provisions allowing the Union Government to assume control over states in certain situations

  • 8.

    Cooperative federalism through institutions like the Inter-State Council and GST Council

  • 9.

    Article 1 defines India as a 'Union of States'

  • 10.

    States have the power to legislate on subjects in the State List

Recent Developments

5 developments

Debate on fiscal federalism and revenue sharing between the Union and States

Role of the GST Council in promoting cooperative federalism

Demands for greater autonomy by states

Challenges to federalism due to centralized planning and policies

Increased use of centrally sponsored schemes

This Concept in News

10 topics

Andhra Pradesh Focuses on Intra-Linking of Rivers for Water Security

27 Feb 2026

This news highlights the practical challenges of implementing development projects in a federal system, particularly when they involve inter-state resources like rivers. It demonstrates how states, while having autonomy over their internal affairs, must also coordinate and cooperate with neighboring states and the Union Government to ensure equitable and sustainable resource management. The news also underscores the importance of clear legal frameworks and dispute resolution mechanisms for addressing conflicts over water sharing. The opposition from Telangana regarding the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar project exemplifies the potential for disagreements and the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the respective roles and responsibilities of the Union and the States, the potential for conflicts, and the mechanisms for resolving them. Without this understanding, it is difficult to appreciate the complexities of inter-state relations and the challenges of achieving sustainable development in a federal system. The news also reveals that cooperative federalism, where states and the center work together, is not always easy to achieve in practice.

Centre Denies RTI Request for VB-G RAM G Act Details

26 Feb 2026

This news highlights the critical aspect of consultation and transparency in a federal system. Effective federalism requires genuine dialogue and collaboration between the Centre and the States. The refusal to disclose details of consultations raises concerns about whether the Centre is truly engaging with States as equal partners or simply imposing its decisions. This challenges the ideal of cooperative federalism, where policies are developed through mutual agreement and shared understanding. The implications of this news are that it could erode trust between the Centre and the States, leading to greater friction and less effective policy implementation. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for evaluating the power dynamics between the Centre and the States and assessing whether the principles of consultation and transparency are being upheld. If the Centre doesn't consult the states, it could lead to policies that don't work well on the ground, or even legal challenges from states that feel their rights have been ignored. This news underscores the importance of holding the government accountable for upholding the principles of federalism in practice.

Tirupati Temple Ghee Adulteration Controversy: A Crisis of Faith

25 Feb 2026

The Tirupati ghee adulteration case highlights the practical challenges of federalism in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. (1) It demonstrates how state-level institutions (like the TTD) can be subject to scrutiny by central agencies (like the CBI and ED) when allegations of corruption or mismanagement arise, showcasing the overlapping jurisdictions and potential for conflict or cooperation. (2) The news event applies the concept of federalism by showing how different levels of government can have different priorities and perspectives on the same issue. The state government is responsible for the day-to-day management of the temple, while the central agencies are responsible for investigating financial irregularities. (3) This news reveals that even in areas traditionally managed by states, the Union government can intervene if there are concerns about corruption or violations of national laws. (4) The implications of this news for the future of federalism are that it underscores the need for clear lines of responsibility and effective mechanisms for inter-governmental coordination and accountability. (5) Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it helps to understand the roles and responsibilities of the different actors involved and the potential for conflicts or cooperation between them.

Directions in hate crime ruling may be unmanageable: CJI

24 Feb 2026

The news highlights the practical challenges of implementing uniform policies across a diverse country like India, where law and order is primarily a State subject. The Supreme Court's hesitation to issue broad, sweeping directions reflects an understanding of the limitations of a top-down approach and the need for State governments to have the flexibility to address local issues in their own way. This news event underscores the tension between the need for national standards and the importance of respecting State autonomy, a core dilemma in federal systems. It reveals that even well-intentioned interventions from the center can be difficult to manage and may not always be effective without the active cooperation and ownership of the States. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the division of responsibilities and the inherent tensions between the Union and the States in addressing complex social problems.

Yediyurappa calls for BJP to win Karnataka independently in 2028

20 Feb 2026

This news highlights the competitive aspect of federalism. While India is a cooperative federalism model, this news shows the underlying competition between political parties at the state level. The BJP's ambition to win independently in Karnataka demonstrates how state-level political dynamics can influence national politics. This news event applies the concept of federalism in practice by showing how different political parties operate within the framework of state and national governments. It reveals that even within a system of cooperative federalism, competition for power remains a key driver. The implications of this news for the concept's future are that state-level political ambitions can shape the national political landscape. Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the relationship between state and national politics, the competition between political parties, and the overall functioning of the Indian political system. The news underscores that state-level political victories contribute to national-level power dynamics, reinforcing the importance of understanding federalism in its practical application.

Kerala political fronts unite against 'The Kerala Story 2' film

20 Feb 2026

This news event highlights the inherent tension within federalism: balancing national narratives with regional sensitivities. The film, perceived as promoting a particular national agenda, clashes with the Kerala government's responsibility to maintain social harmony within its state. This situation applies the concept of federalism in practice by demonstrating how state governments can push back against perceived overreach by national narratives, especially when they believe it threatens their local social fabric. The news reveals the ongoing debate about the limits of freedom of expression versus the state's duty to prevent incitement to hatred. The implications of this news for the future of federalism include the potential for increased friction between the Union and the States on issues related to cultural narratives and social cohesion. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the different roles and responsibilities of the Union and State governments, and the potential for conflict when these roles clash.

Kerala political fronts unite against 'The Kerala Story 2' film

20 Feb 2026

This news demonstrates the practical application of federalism in a socio-political context. (1) It highlights the aspect of state governments acting as guardians of their regional identities and values. (2) The news event applies the concept of federalism by showcasing a state government's resistance to what it perceives as an encroachment on its cultural autonomy. (3) It reveals the potential for conflict between freedom of expression and the maintenance of social harmony within a federal structure. (4) The implications of this news for the concept's future are that states may become more assertive in protecting their interests and resisting perceived attempts to impose a uniform national narrative. (5) Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides the framework for understanding the power dynamics between the Union and the States, and the constitutional basis for states to assert their autonomy.

Priyanka Gandhi releases 'chargesheet' against Assam government, alleging corruption

20 Feb 2026

The news highlights the practical challenges of federalism in India. (1) It demonstrates how allegations of corruption and mismanagement at the state level can raise concerns about the effectiveness of state governance within the federal structure. (2) The news applies to federalism by showing how state-level actions can potentially undermine the principles of accountability and transparency, which are essential for a healthy federal system. (3) It reveals the ongoing tension between state autonomy and the need for central oversight to ensure good governance. (4) The implications of this news for federalism's future include the need for stronger mechanisms to hold state governments accountable and to promote ethical governance. (5) Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it helps to assess the roles and responsibilities of both the state and Union governments in addressing the issues raised in the chargesheet, and to evaluate the potential impact on the overall federal balance.

Tamil Nadu CM Calls for Constitutional Amendment for Federalism

19 Feb 2026

This news highlights the ongoing tension between the Union and the States regarding the distribution of powers and resources. It demonstrates how the practical application of federalism can be a contested issue, with different interpretations of the constitutional provisions. The news challenges the notion of a perfectly balanced federal structure, revealing the inherent power imbalances and the potential for the Union government to exert undue influence. This news reveals that the debate on federalism is not just academic but has real-world implications for governance and policy-making. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the underlying issues and the potential solutions. Without a grasp of federal principles, it is impossible to assess the validity of the CM's claims or the implications of constitutional amendments.

Rebalancing Indian Federalism: A Call for Structural Reset and State Autonomy

17 Feb 2026

The news highlights the aspect of federalism that deals with the distribution of power and autonomy between the Union and the States. It demonstrates how the practical application of federalism can be challenged by over-centralization, potentially hindering effective governance at the state level. The news reveals that there is a growing sentiment among some states for greater autonomy and a more balanced relationship with the Union. The implications of this news are that a structural reset in federal relations may be necessary to ensure that states have the resources and authority to address local needs effectively. Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides the framework for understanding the dynamics between the Union and the States and the ongoing debates about the appropriate balance of power.

Source Topic

Andhra Pradesh Focuses on Intra-Linking of Rivers for Water Security

Polity & Governance

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice & International relations). Questions are frequently asked in both Prelims and Mains regarding the structure and functioning of Indian federalism.

This Concept in News

5 news topics

5

Andhra Pradesh Focuses on Intra-Linking of Rivers for Water Security

27 February 2026

This news highlights the practical challenges of implementing development projects in a federal system, particularly when they involve inter-state resources like rivers. It demonstrates how states, while having autonomy over their internal affairs, must also coordinate and cooperate with neighboring states and the Union Government to ensure equitable and sustainable resource management. The news also underscores the importance of clear legal frameworks and dispute resolution mechanisms for addressing conflicts over water sharing. The opposition from Telangana regarding the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar project exemplifies the potential for disagreements and the need for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the respective roles and responsibilities of the Union and the States, the potential for conflicts, and the mechanisms for resolving them. Without this understanding, it is difficult to appreciate the complexities of inter-state relations and the challenges of achieving sustainable development in a federal system. The news also reveals that cooperative federalism, where states and the center work together, is not always easy to achieve in practice.

Centre Denies RTI Request for VB-G RAM G Act Details

26 February 2026

This news highlights the critical aspect of consultation and transparency in a federal system. Effective federalism requires genuine dialogue and collaboration between the Centre and the States. The refusal to disclose details of consultations raises concerns about whether the Centre is truly engaging with States as equal partners or simply imposing its decisions. This challenges the ideal of cooperative federalism, where policies are developed through mutual agreement and shared understanding. The implications of this news are that it could erode trust between the Centre and the States, leading to greater friction and less effective policy implementation. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for evaluating the power dynamics between the Centre and the States and assessing whether the principles of consultation and transparency are being upheld. If the Centre doesn't consult the states, it could lead to policies that don't work well on the ground, or even legal challenges from states that feel their rights have been ignored. This news underscores the importance of holding the government accountable for upholding the principles of federalism in practice.

Tirupati Temple Ghee Adulteration Controversy: A Crisis of Faith

25 February 2026

The Tirupati ghee adulteration case highlights the practical challenges of federalism in ensuring accountability and transparency in governance. (1) It demonstrates how state-level institutions (like the TTD) can be subject to scrutiny by central agencies (like the CBI and ED) when allegations of corruption or mismanagement arise, showcasing the overlapping jurisdictions and potential for conflict or cooperation. (2) The news event applies the concept of federalism by showing how different levels of government can have different priorities and perspectives on the same issue. The state government is responsible for the day-to-day management of the temple, while the central agencies are responsible for investigating financial irregularities. (3) This news reveals that even in areas traditionally managed by states, the Union government can intervene if there are concerns about corruption or violations of national laws. (4) The implications of this news for the future of federalism are that it underscores the need for clear lines of responsibility and effective mechanisms for inter-governmental coordination and accountability. (5) Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it helps to understand the roles and responsibilities of the different actors involved and the potential for conflicts or cooperation between them.

Directions in hate crime ruling may be unmanageable: CJI

24 February 2026

The news highlights the practical challenges of implementing uniform policies across a diverse country like India, where law and order is primarily a State subject. The Supreme Court's hesitation to issue broad, sweeping directions reflects an understanding of the limitations of a top-down approach and the need for State governments to have the flexibility to address local issues in their own way. This news event underscores the tension between the need for national standards and the importance of respecting State autonomy, a core dilemma in federal systems. It reveals that even well-intentioned interventions from the center can be difficult to manage and may not always be effective without the active cooperation and ownership of the States. Understanding federalism is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the division of responsibilities and the inherent tensions between the Union and the States in addressing complex social problems.

Yediyurappa calls for BJP to win Karnataka independently in 2028

20 February 2026

This news highlights the competitive aspect of federalism. While India is a cooperative federalism model, this news shows the underlying competition between political parties at the state level. The BJP's ambition to win independently in Karnataka demonstrates how state-level political dynamics can influence national politics. This news event applies the concept of federalism in practice by showing how different political parties operate within the framework of state and national governments. It reveals that even within a system of cooperative federalism, competition for power remains a key driver. The implications of this news for the concept's future are that state-level political ambitions can shape the national political landscape. Understanding federalism is crucial for properly analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the relationship between state and national politics, the competition between political parties, and the overall functioning of the Indian political system. The news underscores that state-level political victories contribute to national-level power dynamics, reinforcing the importance of understanding federalism in its practical application.