Double-Engine Governments: Impact on State and Centre Relations, Growth
Analyzing if alignment between state and central governments benefits voters and growth.
Editorial Analysis
The article explores the potential benefits of having the same political party in power at both the state and central levels, suggesting it could lead to better coordination and faster development.
The article explores the concept of a "double-engine government," referring to a situation where the same political party governs both the state and the central government. It examines the argument that such alignment leads to better coordination and faster development, potentially benefiting voters.
The piece likely delves into the advantages and disadvantages of this arrangement, considering factors like policy implementation, resource allocation, and potential for political bias. It also likely analyzes specific examples to assess the actual impact of double-engine governments on economic growth and overall governance.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper II: Federalism, Centre-State Relations
Constitutional provisions related to distribution of powers and resources
Potential for essay questions on cooperative vs. competitive federalism
More Information
Background
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is meant by a 'double-engine government' in the Indian political context?
A 'double-engine government' refers to a situation where the same political party is in power both at the state level and at the central level. The idea is that this alignment leads to better coordination and faster development.
2. What are the potential advantages of a double-engine government?
Potential advantages include smoother policy implementation, better resource allocation to the state, and improved coordination between the state and central governments. This can lead to faster project approvals and overall development.
3. What are the potential disadvantages of a double-engine government?
Potential disadvantages include the risk of political bias in resource allocation, neglect of states governed by opposition parties, and a potential undermining of cooperative federalism if the Centre favors states with the same ruling party.
4. How does the concept of a 'double-engine government' relate to cooperative federalism?
While cooperative federalism emphasizes collaboration between the Centre and all States regardless of the ruling party, the 'double-engine government' concept suggests that alignment between the ruling parties at both levels leads to more effective governance. This can sometimes undermine the spirit of cooperative federalism if it creates perceptions of bias.
5. In the context of 'double-engine governments,' what is the role of NITI Aayog?
The NITI Aayog plays a role in promoting cooperative federalism and facilitating dialogue between the Centre and the States. It aims to ensure balanced development across all states, regardless of which party is in power.
6. How might the emphasis on 'double-engine governments' affect Centre-State financial relations?
The emphasis on 'double-engine governments' could potentially lead to perceptions of bias in resource allocation, with states governed by the same party as the Centre potentially receiving preferential treatment. This can strain Centre-State financial relations.
7. What are the key aspects of Centre-State Relations that a UPSC aspirant should know?
Key aspects include the constitutional provisions governing the distribution of powers and resources, the roles of institutions like the Finance Commission and the Inter-State Council, and the principles of cooperative and competitive federalism. Aspirants should also understand the historical evolution of these relations.
8. How does the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council exemplify cooperative federalism?
The GST Council is a prime example of cooperative federalism as it brings together the Centre and the States to make decisions on GST rates, rules, and implementation. It promotes dialogue and consensus-building between the Centre and the States on important economic matters.
9. What are the potential impacts of 'double-engine governments' on regional disparities in development?
If 'double-engine governments' lead to biased resource allocation, it could exacerbate regional disparities, with states aligned with the Centre potentially developing faster than others. This could lead to social and political tensions.
10. What are the key differences between cooperative and competitive federalism?
Cooperative federalism emphasizes collaboration and coordination between the Centre and the States, while competitive federalism encourages states to compete with each other to attract investment and improve governance. The concept of 'double-engine government' can sometimes lean towards competitive federalism if it creates an uneven playing field.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the concept of 'cooperative federalism' in the Indian context? A) A system where the central government dictates policies to the states without consultation. B) A framework where the Union and State governments collaborate and coordinate to address shared challenges. C) An arrangement where states compete with each other for resources allocated by the central government. D) A structure where states have complete autonomy over their affairs without any central intervention.
- A.A system where the central government dictates policies to the states without consultation.
- B.A framework where the Union and State governments collaborate and coordinate to address shared challenges.
- C.An arrangement where states compete with each other for resources allocated by the central government.
- D.A structure where states have complete autonomy over their affairs without any central intervention.
Show Answer
Answer: B
Cooperative federalism emphasizes collaboration and coordination between the Union and State governments to address shared challenges. This involves mutual consultation, policy alignment, and joint efforts to achieve common goals. Options A, C, and D represent alternative models that do not accurately reflect the cooperative nature of Indian federalism. The Sarkaria Commission also emphasized the need for cooperative federalism.
Source Articles
In Focus podcast | Is a ‘double engine government’ crucial for growth? - The Hindu
Is a ‘double engine government’ crucial for growth? - The Hindu
The BJP’s Double Engine Strategy is Impacting India’s Federalism - Frontline
Power of ‘double engine’ one of the reasons for Karnataka’s fast-paced growth, says Narendra Modi - The Hindu
PM Modi counts benefits of 'double-engine govt' in Himachal Pradesh - The Hindu