What is Federalism and Healthcare?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution divides legislative powers into the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Public health falls primarily under the State List.
- 2.
The central government can legislate on subjects in the State List under certain circumstances, such as during a national emergency (Article 250).
- 3.
The Concurrent List allows both the center and states to legislate on certain subjects, but central laws prevail in case of conflict.
- 4.
The central government provides financial assistance to states for healthcare through centrally sponsored schemes like the National Health Mission (NHM).
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Delhi Lags in Establishing Day Care Cancer Centers Despite Announcement
Social IssuesUPSC Relevance
Federalism and Healthcare is important for GS-2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice) and GS-3 (Economy, Infrastructure). Questions can be asked about the division of powers, the role of the central and state governments, and challenges in healthcare delivery. This topic is frequently asked in both Prelims and Mains.
In Prelims, expect questions on the Seventh Schedule and related articles. In Mains, analyze the challenges of federalism in healthcare and suggest solutions. Recent years have seen questions on the impact of federalism on pandemic management and the need for greater center-state coordination.
For essay, it can be used as an example of cooperative federalism. Remember to cite relevant articles and committees in your answers.
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Federalism in the context of Healthcare in India, and what is its constitutional basis?
Federalism in healthcare refers to the division of powers between the central government and state governments regarding healthcare management and policy. The constitutional basis lies in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which allocates subjects between the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Public health and sanitation fall primarily under the State List.
Exam Tip
Remember that the Seventh Schedule is the key to understanding the division of powers in healthcare.
2. What are the key provisions related to Federalism and Healthcare as per the Indian Constitution?
Key provisions include: * The Seventh Schedule, which divides legislative powers. * The State List, under which 'Public health and sanitation; hospitals and dispensaries' fall. * Article 250, which allows the central government to legislate on subjects in the State List during a national emergency. * The Concurrent List, allowing both center and states to legislate, with central laws prevailing in case of conflict.
