Federalism - Class 10 Social Science - Chapter 2 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
Renews every month. Cancel anytime
Your personal doubt-solving assistant
Chatterbot AI gives you 100% accurate answers to your questions in an instant.
Extra Questions and Answers - Federalism | Democratic Politics - II | Social Science | Class 10
"What are the terms of reference of the 15th Finance Commission? Critically analyze whether the terms of reference are against the spirit of cooperative federalism."
The 15th Finance Commission of India was tasked with recommending the distribution of the net proceeds of taxes between the Centre and the States, and among the States themselves. Key terms of reference include considering the impact of the new GST, proposing performance-based incentives, and addressing issues regarding the financial stability of both central and state governments. Critics argue that the directive to use the 2011 census data potentially penalizes states that have effectively managed their population growth, potentially undermining the principles of cooperative federalism. Additionally, the emphasis on central oversight of state fiscal liabilities is seen as impinging on state autonomy, thereby questioning the adherence to the ethos of cooperative federalism.
Existence of more than one level of government in the country is referred to as
A dual government
B democracy
C federalism
D parliamentary government
The correct answer is C) federalism.
Federalism is defined by the existence of more than one level of government in a country. This system is designed to distribute power among different levels, ensuring a more balanced governance approach.
The Government of India Act 1919 clearly defines:-
A. Division of powers between the judiciary and the legislature.
B. Jurisdiction of the central and provincial governments.
C. Powers of the Secretary of State for India and the Viceroy.
D. None of the above.
The correct option is B
The Government of India Act 1919 clearly defined the jurisdiction between the central and provincial governments.
This act marked the decentralization of power, contributing to the differentiation in the roles and responsibilities handled at the central and the provincial levels.
Is the offence of attempting to overthrow the government of the state to which the offender owes allegiance?
A) Treason
B) Duplicity
C) Infidelity
The correct answer is A) Treason.
Treason is defined as the act of attempting to overthrow the government of the state to which the offender owes allegiance. A notable historical example includes Nelson Mandela, who was arrested and tried for treason in 1963.
💡 Have more questions?
Ask Chatterbot AINCERT Solutions - Federalism | Democratic Politics - II | Social Science | Class 10
Locate the following States on a blank outline political map of India:
Manipur, Sikkim, Chhattisgarh and Goa.
Identify and shade three federal countries (other than India) on a blank outline political map of the world.
Federal countries you might consider shading on your map include:
United States of America – Located in North America, it is one of the oldest and most significant examples of a federation.
Germany – Located in Europe, Germany is a federal republic consisting of 16 states, known as "Bundesländer".
Australia – Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia’s federation consists of six states and several territories.
These are recognized federal countries and highlighting them on a world map would effectively illustrate examples of federal nations globally.
Point out one feature in the practice of federalism in India that is similar to and one feature that is different from that of Belgium.
Similar Feature:
Both India and Belgium have a multi-tier government system, where powers are constitutionally divided between central, state, and local governments. This allows various regions within each country to exercise authority over certain areas and ensures a form of power-sharing that strengthens federalism.
Different Feature:
A significant difference is the nature of the federation itself. India's system of federalism is a "holding together" federation, where the central government tends to have more powers compared to the states, and the states can have different levels of powers. In contrast, Belgium operates as a "coming together" federation, where the entities (like Flemish, Walloons) have come together to form the federation with an intent to balance power evenly, and these regions manage substantial independent authority almost equal to the central government.
What is the main difference between a federal form of government and a unitary one? Explain with an example.
The main difference between a federal form of government and a unitary one lies in the distribution of power. In a federal system, power is divided between a central government and various constituent units, such as states or provinces, each having their own jurisdiction and autonomy. For example, the United States operates under a federal system where states have the power to enact their own laws on issues like education and health, independent of the federal government.
Conversely, in a unitary system, power is centralized, and local administrations only have powers that the central government chooses to delegate. France is an example of a unitary state where regional authorities operate under directives from the central government, emphasizing a singular national policy.
State any two differences between the local government before and after the Constitutional amendment in 1992.
The two key differences between the local government before and after the Constitutional amendment in 1992 are:
Regular Elections: Before the amendment, elections to local government bodies were not held regularly. The 1992 amendment made it constitutionally mandatory to conduct regular elections for these local bodies.
Reservation of Seats: Prior to the amendment, there was no specific provision for reservation in local government bodies. After the amendment, it became mandatory to reserve seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes, with at least one-third of all positions reserved for women. This aimed at ensuring greater inclusivity and representation in local governance.
Fill in the blanks:
Since the United States is a ___________________ type of federation, all the constituent States have equal powers and States are ______________vis-à-vis the federal government. But India is a _____________________ type of federation and some States have more power than others. In India, the ____________ government has more powers.
Since the United States is a "coming together" type of federation, all the constituent States have equal powers and States are strong vis-à-vis the federal government. But India is a "holding together" type of federation and some States have more power than others. In India, the Central government has more Fpowers.
Here are three reactions to the language policy followed in India.
Give an argument and an example to support any of these positions.
Sangeeta: The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.
Arman: Language-based States have divided us by making everyone conscious of their language.
Harish: This policy has only helped to consolidate the dominance of English over all other languages.
Sangeeta: The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.
Argument:The policy of language accommodation in India, which allows for linguistic diversity while promoting unity, has significantly contributed to national coherence. By acknowledging multiple languages and culturally integrating them into official and administrative domains, a national unity in diversity is fostered, reducing potential linguistic homogenization that could lead to discontent and strife.
Example:The creation of linguistic states such as Tamil Nadu for Tamil speakers and Karnataka for Kannada speakers serves as a potent example. This strategy recognized the cultural and linguistic needs of diverse groups, leading to political stability and reduced inter-ethnic tensions. By providing each major linguistic group its state, India has managed to maintain unity amidst cultural diversity. This accommodative policy prevents any single language from overshadowing others, promoting a sense of inclusivity and equality among India's various linguistic communities.
The distinguishing feature of a federal government is:
(a) National government gives some powers to the provincial governments.
(b) Power is distributed among the legislature, executive and judiciary.
(c) Elected officials exercise supreme power in the government.
(d) Governmental power is divided between different levels of government.
The distinguishing feature of a federal government is:
(d) Governmental power is divided between different levels of government.
This option correctly reflects the essence of federalism where authority is constitutionally divided between the central, national government and various other governmental units at regional or state levels.
A few subjects in various Lists of the Indian Constitution are given here. Group them under the Union, State and Concurrent Lists as provided in the table below.
A. Defence; B. Police; C. Agriculture; D. Education;
E. Banking; F. Forests; G. Communications; H. Trade; I. Marriages
Union List | |
State List | |
Concurrent List |
Union List:
A. Defence
E. Banking
G. Communications
State List:
B. Police
C. Agriculture
H. Trade
Concurrent List:
D. Education
F. Forests
I. Marriages
The subjects are grouped based on the respective powers granted to the Union Government, State Governments, and both (Concurrent) as described in the Constitution of India.
Examine the following pairs that give the level of government in India and the powers of the government at that level to make laws on the subjects mentioned against each. Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched?
(a) | State List |
(b) Central government | Union List |
(c) Central and State governments | Concurrent List |
(d) Local governments | Residuary powers |
The pair that is not correctly matched is:
d) Local governments - Residuary powers
Explanation:
Residuary powers are not assigned to the local governments in India. According to the Constitution of India, the residuary powers, which involve any subjects that are not mentioned in the Union List, State List, or Concurrent List, belong to the Union Government. Local governments primarily deal with subjects delegated to them by the state governments and typically pertain to local administration and development, not residuary subjects.
Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I | List II |
1. Union of India | A. Prime Minister |
2. State | B. Sarpanch |
3. Municipal Corporation | C. Governor |
4. Gram Panchayat | D. Mayor |
The entities listed in List I are administrative units or levels of government in India, each having a head or significant figure associated with them, which are mentioned in List II. Here's the correct matching:
Union of India - The head of the Union Government of India is the Prime Minister. Thus, 1 matches with A.
State - The head of a State in India is the Governor (although the chief executive is the Chief Minister, the Governor is a formal head). So, 2 matches with C.
Municipal Corporation - The head of the Municipal Corporation is known as the Mayor. Therefore, 3 matches with D.
Gram Panchayat - The head of the Gram Panchayat is the Sarpanch. Hence, 4 matches with B.
Thus, the correct answer is: 1: A, 2: C, 3: D, 4: B.
Consider the following two statements.
A. In a federation, the powers of the federal and provincial governments are clearly demarcated.
B. India is a federation because the powers of the Union and State Governments are specified in the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on their respective subjects.
C. Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces.
D. India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been devolved to the local government bodies.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) A, B and C (b) A, C and D (c) A and B only (d) B and C only
Based on the information from the chapter and fundamental knowledge of federalism, let's analyze each statement:
Statement A: In a federation, the powers of the federal and provincial governments are clearly demarcated. This is true as it is a fundamental aspect of federal systems; therefore, A is correct.
Statement B: India is a federation because the powers of the Union and State Governments are specified in the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on their respective subjects. This matches the definition and features of federalism as described in the text, specifically pointing out that there are clear divisions of powers listed in the Constitution, making B correct.
Statement C: Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces. This statement is incorrect. Although Sri Lanka is divided into provinces, it operates as a unitary state where central government holds the major powers, not conforming to the standard definition of a federation which requires a division of powers that includes substantial state autonomy.
Statement D: India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been devolved to the local government bodies. This statement is incorrect. Devolution of powers to local government bodies does not negate the federal structure; instead, it further decentralizes power which typically aligns with principles of federalism.
Given these evaluations:
Correct answer: (c) A and B only.
💡 Have more questions?
Ask Chatterbot AINotes - Federalism | Class 10 Democratic Politics - II | Social Science
Federalism is a fundamental concept in understanding the political and administrative structures of many modern democracies. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the intricacies of federalism, especially focusing on the Indian context.
Understanding Federalism
Definition of Federalism
Federalism is a system of government where the power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country. This allows multiple levels of government to coexist and govern the same citizens independently in specific matters of legislation, taxation, and administration.
Key Features of Federalism
Multiple Levels of Government: At least two levels of government, each with its own jurisdiction.
Jurisdiction: Each level of government has authority over specific matters.
Constitutional Guarantee: The existence and authority of each government level are constitutionally protected.
Constitutional Amendments: Fundamental constitutional provisions require the consent of multiple government levels to be amended.
Judicial Authority: Courts interpret the constitution and resolve disputes between different government levels.
Financial Autonomy: Clear specification of revenue sources for each government level to ensure financial independence.
Dual Objectives: Safeguard the unity of the country while accommodating regional diversity.
Principles of Federalism
Power Division in Federal Systems
In federal systems, power is divided between a national government and various state or regional governments. Both levels have separate responsibilities and operate independently within their jurisdictions.
Differences between Federal and Unitary Systems
In a unitary system, the central government holds all significant powers, and any regional authorities exist at its discretion. In contrast, a federal system ensures that state governments have powers that are constitutionally guaranteed and not merely delegated by the central authority.
Examples of Federal Countries
Though only 25 of the world's 193 countries adopt federal political systems, they house about 40% of the world's population. Large nations like the USA, Canada, Australia, and India follow federal systems.
Indian Federal System
Historical Context
India emerged as a federal nation post-independence, adopting a structure that allows power sharing between the Centre (Union Government) and the States. Although the Indian Constitution uses the term "Union of States", it embodies the principles of federalism.
Constitutional Framework
The Indian Constitution outlines a clear division of legislative powers through three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
Union List
Includes subjects of national importance such as defense, foreign affairs, and banking. Only the Union Government can legislate on these matters.
State List
Covers topics of local and state significance like police, agriculture, and commerce. State Governments have the exclusive power to make laws on these subjects.
Concurrent List
Contains subjects of joint interest like education and marriage. Both Union and State Governments can legislate here, but Union law prevails in case of conflict.
Local Government and Federalism
Decentralization in India
India practices decentralization by empowering local governments through Panchayats in villages and Municipalities in urban areas. The 1992 constitutional amendments made it mandatory to hold regular elections for these bodies and ensure their financial autonomy, deepening the federal structure.
Panchayats and Municipalities
Panchayats operate in rural areas, conducting elections and managing local governance. Municipalities serve urban regions, with elected representatives overseeing local administration. This three-tier governance system ensures efficient administration and local participation.
Practicing Federalism
Implementation and Practice
India's practice of federalism is also visible in its linguistic and regional policies, ensuring linguistic states and accommodating cultural diversity while maintaining national unity.
Linguistic States
States were reorganized based on linguistic lines, which initially faced resistance but eventually led to better administrative efficiency and national integration.
Language Policy
While Hindi is the official language, the Constitution recognizes 21 other languages, safeguarding linguistic diversity and avoiding conflicts seen in other nations like Sri Lanka.
Centre-State Relations
Centre-State relations have evolved, especially since the 1990s, with greater respect for state autonomy and a rise in coalition governments that necessitate power-sharing.
Challenges and Advancements
Role of Judiciary in Federalism
The judiciary plays a vital role in resolving Centre-State disputes and ensuring that constitutional provisions are adhered to, thereby strengthening federalism.
Regionalism vs. National Unity
The rise of regional parties has led to stronger state identities but also necessitates a balance to maintain national unity.
Conclusion
The Future of Federalism in India
India's federal structure has evolved significantly, with ongoing efforts to balance power-sharing, protect regional interests, and maintain national unity. Strengthening local governments and ensuring judicial oversight will be crucial for the future of federalism in India.
Federalism remains a dynamic and critical aspect of governance in India, reflecting its commitment to democracy and diversity.
🚀 Learn more about Notes with Chatterbot AI