UPSC Prelims 2004 Q59: Indian Polity – Federalism & Centre - State Relations
Which one of the following Articles of the Constitution of India says that the executive
power of every State shall be so exercised as not to impede or prejudice the exercise of the
executive power of the Union?
- (a) Article 257
- (b) Article 258
- (c) Article 355
- (d) Article 356
Answer: (a) Article 257
Explanation
Executive power of States and the Union
| Article | Subject |
|---|---|
| Article 257 | Control of the Union over States — State executive power not to impede the Union's |
| Article 258 | Power of the Union to confer powers on States |
| Article 355 | Duty of the Union to protect States |
| Article 356 | President's rule |
Article 257 says that the executive power of every State shall be exercised so as not to impede or prejudice the executive power of the Union.
Answer: (a) Article 257.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. Article 257 states this.
- (b) Incorrect. Article 258 allows the Union to confer powers on States.
- (c) Incorrect. Article 355 states the Union's duty to protect States.
- (d) Incorrect. Article 356 is about failure of constitutional machinery.
Key point
Articles 256 and 257: States' compliance with Union laws and non-impediment.
Remember
Article 257: State executive power must not impede the Union's.
Common mistakes
- Choosing Article 356 because it concerns Union control.
- Mixing Article 257 with Article 258.
- Forgetting Article 256 on compliance with Union laws.
Exam tip
Article 256: compliance; 257: control; 258: delegation; 355: duty; 356: President's rule.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Part XI, Chapter II
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Centre–State Relations)