What is Federalism (Police Powers)?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
The Constitution's Seventh Schedule divides subjects into three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. 'Police' and 'Public Order' are explicitly mentioned in the State List (List II, Entry 1 and 2).
- 2.
States have the exclusive power to legislate on matters related to police, including recruitment, training, operations, and infrastructure.
- 3.
The Union government can provide financial and technical assistance to states for police modernization and capacity building through schemes like the Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF) scheme.
- 4.
In cases of national emergency (Article 352) or if a state requests assistance (Article 257), the Union government can deploy central armed police forces (CAPFs) to aid state police.
Visual Insights
Federalism and Police Powers in India
Mind map illustrating the division of police powers between the Union and States in India's federal system.
Federalism (Police Powers)
- ●State List
- ●Union Government Role
- ●Concurrent List
- ●Challenges
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Uttar Pradesh Missing Persons: Father's Quest Exposes Systemic Failures
Social IssuesUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Federalism (Police Powers) and what is its constitutional basis in India?
Federalism in India involves the division of powers between the central and state governments, as defined in the Constitution. Police powers are the authority of state governments to make and enforce laws for public safety, health, and welfare. The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution divides subjects between the Union and States, with 'Public Order' and 'Police' being State subjects.
Exam Tip
Remember that 'Police' and 'Public Order' are State subjects under the Seventh Schedule.
2. What are the key constitutional provisions related to the police powers of states in India?
The key provisions are found in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which divides subjects into the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. 'Police' and 'Public Order' are explicitly mentioned in the State List (List II). Articles 246, 256, 257, 355, and 356 are also relevant.
Exam Tip
Focus on the Seventh Schedule and the division of powers for Prelims.
