UPSC Prelims 2017 Q100: Indian Polity – Federalism & Centre - State Relations
Which one of the following is not a feature of Indian federalism?
- (a) There is an independent judiciary in India.
- (b) Powers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States.
- (c) The federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha.
- (d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units.
Answer: (d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units.
Explanation
Features of Indian federalism
Article 1 calls India a 'Union of States'.
Dr Ambedkar explained why: the federation is not the result of an agreement among the States, and no State can secede.
| Option | Feature of Indian federalism? | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| (a) There is an independent judiciary in India | Yes | The Supreme Court settles Centre-State disputes |
| (b) Powers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States | Yes | Seventh Schedule: Union, State and Concurrent Lists |
| (c) The federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha | Yes | Seats are by population (Uttar Pradesh 31; some States 1) |
| (d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units | No | That is true of the United States |
Two kinds of federation:
| Type | Example | How formed |
|---|---|---|
| Coming together | United States | States agreed to unite |
| Holding together | India | A large country divided power among its units |
Answer: (d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. An independent judiciary is a feature of Indian federalism.
- (b) Incorrect. The division of powers between the Centre and the States is a federal feature.
- (c) Incorrect. Unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha is a real feature of India's system.
- (d) CORRECT. Indian federalism is not the result of an agreement among the federating units.
Key point
India is a 'Union of States' (Article 1): a holding-together federation, not formed by agreement; States cannot secede; Rajya Sabha seats go by population.
Remember
Indian federation is not an agreement among States.
Common mistakes
- Missing the word 'not' in the question.
- Assuming all States have equal seats in the Rajya Sabha, as in the US Senate.
- Thinking the Indian States joined by treaty to form the Union.
Exam tip
India: 'Union of States', indestructible Union of destructible States. No agreement, no secession.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 1 and the Seventh Schedule
- NCERT Class XI — Indian Constitution at Work, Ch 7 (Federalism)