Class 10 Civics : Federalism

Class 10 Civics : Federalism

Triple W’s Take on Federalism in India: A Delicate Balance

Hey there, readers!

Welcome back to the blog! Today, we’re diving into a fundamental aspect of India’s governance that’s often discussed but sometimes misunderstood—federalism. Class 10 Civics : Federalism

At its core, federalism is about balancing power between central and regional authorities, and in India, this balance is both complex and crucial. The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system with a strong central framework while recognizing the autonomy of its states.

What Makes Indian Federalism Unique?

1. Strong Center with Regional Autonomy: India’s federal structure is often described as “quasi-federal” because, while the Constitution grants significant powers to states, the central government retains overarching authority. This ensures national unity and coordination across the diverse country, but it also allows states to have their own governments and manage local affairs.

2. The Union List, State List, and Concurrent List: India’s Constitution outlines three lists—Union, State, and Concurrent—that delineate the powers and responsibilities of the central and state governments. The Union List covers areas of national importance like defense and foreign affairs, the State List includes local matters like police and public health, and the Concurrent List involves shared responsibilities such as education and marriage laws.

3. Inter-State Relations: Federalism in India isn’t just about central versus state. It also involves relationships among states. The Constitution includes provisions for resolving disputes between states and ensures that states cooperate with one another in various domains.

4. Flexibility and Evolution: India’s federal system is designed to adapt to the changing needs of the country. Amendments to the Constitution and new legislation allow for a flexible approach to federalism, accommodating the evolving political and social landscape.

Challenges and Opportunities

The balancing act between central and state powers is not without its challenges. Tensions can arise over resource distribution, policy priorities, and political autonomy. However, this dynamic system also offers opportunities for diverse regional voices and tailored solutions to local issues.

In essence, Indian federalism is about harmony in diversity—a system that allows for both unity and pluralism. It’s an ongoing journey of negotiation, compromise, and adaptation, reflecting the rich and varied tapestry of India.

Stay tuned for more insights and discussions on governance and policy. Until next time!

Cheers,
Triple W

Important Questions & Answers

Question-
Point out one feature in the practice of federalism in India that is similar to and one feature that is different from that of Belgium.
Answer:
India and Belgium are similar in the aspect of ‘holding together’ federations.

Question-
What is the main difference between a federal form of government and a unitary one? Explain with an example.
Answer:
A unitary system of government is where the national government has all the powers. But, whereas the federal form of government has two powers. One at the state level and one at the central level.

Question-
State any two differences between the local government before and after the Constitutional amendment in 1992.

Answer:
Two differences between the local government before and after the constitutional amendment in 1992 are as follows:

1. Before 1992, elections to the local bodies were not held regularly. Since 1992, it is constitutionally mandated to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
2. Before 1992, local bodies did not have any powers or resources of their own. After 1992, the state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government bodies.

Question-

Identify and shade three federal countries (other than India) on a blank outline political map of the world.

Answer :

1. South Africa
2. Pakistan
3. Australia

Question-

Fill in the blanks:

Since the United States is a ___________________ type of federation, all the constituent States have equal powers and States are ______________vis-à-vis the federal government. But India is a _____________________ type of federation and some States have more power than others. In India, the ____________ government has more powers.

Answer :

Since the United States is a Coming together type of federation, all the constituent States have equal powers and States are .strong vis-a-vis the federal government. But India is a holding together type of federation and some States have more power than others. In India, the Central government has more powers.