Why did we adopt federalism with a strong central government? Explain the important provisions that create a strong central government.
In short
India adopted federalism with a strong Centre because Partition, vast diversity and the need for planned development demanded national unity alongside regional autonomy. A Union List covering defence and currency, residuary powers, Parliament's Article 3 power over state boundaries and emergency Articles 352, 356 and 360 create this strong Centre.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 278 words
Union of States Concept
The Constitution’s "Union of States" model, explained by Dr. Ambedkar, establishes the Centre’s supremacy over states, emphasizing a permanent union rather than a pact among sovereign states.
Distribution of Legislative Powers
The Seventh Schedule’s Union List includes defence, foreign affairs, and currency, securing Centre’s control over key areas.
Emergency Provisions
Articles 352, 356, and 360 empower the Centre to override states during emergencies, centralizing authority temporarily to maintain national stability.
Fiscal Centralization
The Centre controls major revenues and allocates funds via the Finance Commission, making states financially dependent and influencing their policies.
Planning and Development Coordination
The Planning Commission (now NITI Aayog) centralized economic planning, affecting states like Andhra Pradesh with projects such as Polavaram irrigation, sometimes limiting state autonomy.
Judicial Safeguards
The Supreme Court’s S.R. Bommai case curtailed misuse of Article 356, protecting federal balance1 by preventing arbitrary dismissal of state governments.
Institutional Mechanisms
The Inter-State Council and GST Council promote dialogue and cooperation between Centre and states, helping resolve conflicts and balance interests.
Respecting Regional Aspirations
Linguistic reorganization of states and special provisions for certain regions accommodate diversity without compromising unity, strengthening the federal spirit.
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This chapter in the exam
Federal structure, Governor and distribution of powers17 questions
Asked in 8 of 8 sittings since 2008
Most tested: Centre–State balance and the extent of Union supremacy over States
- 2025The procedure of enacting a law from a bill differs at the Union and State levels, primarily to safeguard the interests of the Union Government in state legislation. Elucidate this aspect.
- 2025Although States have their separate list for law-making, this authority is not beyond the overarching legislative powers of the Parliament. Examine.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.