What is Constitutional Balance?
Historical Background
Key Points
12 points- 1.
The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution divides powers between the Union and the States through three lists: the Union List (subjects on which the Union can legislate), the State List (subjects on which the States can legislate), and the Concurrent List (subjects on which both can legislate).
- 2.
Article 246 deals with the subject matter of laws made by Parliament and by the Legislatures of States.
- 3.
Article 249 empowers Parliament to legislate with respect to a matter in the State List if the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution to that effect by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting.
- 4.
Article 256 states that the executive power of every State shall be so exercised as to ensure compliance with the laws made by Parliament.
Visual Insights
Constitutional Articles: Union Powers vs. State Safeguards
This table compares key constitutional articles that define the powers of the Union government and those that safeguard the interests of the States.
| Union Powers | State Safeguards | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Article 249: Parliament's power to legislate on State List matters in national interest. | Article 250: Parliament's power to legislate on any matter in the State List during a national emergency. | These articles grant the Union government significant legislative powers during specific circumstances. |
| Article 256: State's executive power must ensure compliance with laws made by Parliament. | Article 257: Union's power to give directions to States. | These articles ensure that States comply with Union laws and policies. |
| Article 356: President's Rule in a State if the constitutional machinery fails. | Article 263: Provisions with respect to an Inter-State Council. | These articles provide mechanisms for the Union to intervene in State affairs and for States to coordinate with each other. |
| Article 280: Finance Commission recommends the distribution of tax revenues between the Union and the States. | Article 275: Grants-in-aid to the States. | These articles govern the financial relations between the Union and the States. |
Recent Real-World Examples
1 examplesIllustrated in 1 real-world examples from Feb 2026 to Feb 2026
Source Topic
Rebalancing Indian Federalism: A Call for Structural Reset and State Autonomy
Polity & GovernanceUPSC Relevance
Frequently Asked Questions
121. What is Constitutional Balance and its constitutional basis?
Constitutional Balance refers to the distribution of powers and responsibilities between the Union government and the State governments in India. The constitutional basis lies in the Constitution of India, particularly the Seventh Schedule, which divides powers through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Articles like Article 246, Article 249, Article 256, and Article 280 also define aspects of this balance.
Exam Tip
Remember the Seventh Schedule and the three lists for Prelims. For Mains, understand how different articles impact the balance of power.
2. What are the key provisions that define Constitutional Balance?
Key provisions include: - The Seventh Schedule, dividing powers into Union, State, and Concurrent Lists. - Article 246, dealing with the subject matter of laws made by Parliament and State Legislatures. - Article 249, empowering Parliament to legislate on State List matters under specific conditions. - Article 256, ensuring States comply with Parliamentary laws. - Article 280, concerning the Finance Commission's role in financial resource distribution.
