What is concept of cooperative federalism? Does it exist in Indian polity?

Question

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Cooperative federalism is a partnership in which the Centre and states share responsibilities and resources to pursue common goals rather than acting in separate spheres, and it exists in India alongside centralising and competitive tendencies. The GST Council, where Centre and states jointly set tax rates, is its clearest example.

**Introduction**

Cooperative federalism⟦2⟧⟦1⟧ in India promotes partnership between the Centre and states, moving beyond classical federalism’s strict separation to address complex governance challenges and ensure effective policy implementation across diverse regions.

**Understanding Cooperative Federalism**

1. **Collaborative Model vs Classical Federalism**: Cooperative federalism stresses shared governance and joint decision-making, unlike K.C. Wheare’s model that advocates for independent functioning within separate jurisdictions.

2. **Constitutional and Administrative Tools**: Articles 263 and 261, the 7th Schedule, and bodies like the Inter-State Council institutionalize cooperation by facilitating coordination and mutual respect among governments.

**Existence in Indian Polity**

3. **Evidence of Cooperation**: The GST Council exemplifies pooled sovereignty where Centre and states, including ==Andhra Pradesh==, jointly decide tax policies. The 14th and 15th Finance Commissions have enhanced fiscal federalism by increasing states’ financial autonomy and recommending performance-based grants.

4. **Challenges and Conflicts**: Water disputes over Krishna and Godavari rivers in ==Andhra Pradesh== and politicisation of Governors reveal limits to cooperation and centralising tendencies that strain Centre-state relations.

**Way Forward**

5. **Strengthen Institutions and Fiscal Autonomy**: Empower the Inter-State Council and GST Council with greater authority and ensure regular meetings. Increase untied grants and reduce conditionalities in Centrally Sponsored Schemes to give states like ==Andhra Pradesh== more flexibility.

6. **Inclusive Policy-Making and Dispute Resolution**: Platforms like NITI Aayog should involve states comprehensively in policy formulation. Establish permanent mechanisms for resolving inter-state conflicts, especially on resource sharing, to prevent confrontational federalism and promote harmony.

**Conclusion**

Cooperative federalism is evolving in India, balancing the Centre’s leadership with state autonomy to promote national integration and inclusive development across regions.

సహకార సమాఖ్యవాదం (Cooperative federalism) భావన ఏమిటి? ఇది భారత రాజకీయ వ్యవస్థలో ఉందా?

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సమాఖ్య నిర్మాణం, గవర్నర్ మరియు అధికారాల పంపిణీ17 questions

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