Features of Federalism in India

Before we discuss the significance of federalism in India, it’s important to briefly examine its features for better understanding.

Article 200 of the Indian Constitution mandates that states must adhere to laws enacted by the Central government, empowering the Union government with extensive authority, particularly during emergencies.

Key Features of Indian Federalism:

1. Single Constitution
2. Single Citizenship
3. Flexibility of Constitution
4. Integrated Judiciary
5. Appointment of the Centre
6. All India Services
7. Emergency Provisions

Federalism holds relevance in modern politics, with its core objectives being unity in diversity, administrative decentralization, and devolution of authority. It enables states to pursue common welfare goals amidst diversity.

Challenges Pertaining to Federal Structure: The Indian system of Federalism is a bit unique. It is called a quasi-federal system because it has features of both a federation and a union. According to Article 1 of the Indian Constitution, “India, which is also called Bharat, will be a Union of States.” Federalism in India didn’t happen by states joined together to form a federal union. Instead, it changed from a unitary system to a federal one.

There are two governments in India’s federal system: the State Government and the Central Government. There’s also an independent judiciary system. However, because of its quasi-federal nature, India faces many issues and challenges related to its federal structure.

Let us learn more about the challenges of federal structure!