Social Science · Class 10
Political Science: Federalism
Learn Political Science: Federalism with notes, examples, and practice questions.
4 sections15–25 min read6 MCQs · 2 examples
Chapter Overview
Federalism divides power between centre and states. India's federal system has Union, State, and Concurrent lists, linguistic states, and debates on centre-state relations and decentralisation.
What Is Federalism
- Two or more levels of government
- Each level has own jurisdiction
- Constitution is supreme; courts interpret division
- Unitary vs federal — India is 'holding together' federation
Indian Federal Features
- Union List: defence, foreign affairs, currency
- State List: police, agriculture, health
- Concurrent List: education, forests, marriage
- Rajya Sabha represents states; inter-state council
Challenges
- Centre-state conflicts over funds and powers
- Demand for new states on linguistic/ethnic lines
- Special provisions — J&K (historical Art 370), NE states
- Strengthening local government — 73rd and 74th Amendments
Solved Examples
Step-by-step solutions — read each step before checking the final answer.
Lists
Give one subject each from Union and State lists.
- 1Union: defence, railways, foreign affairs
- 2State: police, public health, agriculture
Answer
Union: defence; State: police (any valid examples)
Why federalism
Why is federalism suitable for India?
- 1Huge size and diversity
- 2States have regional needs; unity with autonomy
Answer
Accommodates diversity while maintaining national unity
Key Points to Remember
- ✓ India adopted linguistic reorganisation of states
- ✓ Federalism balances unity and regional autonomy
- ✓ Local government is third tier of federalism
- ✓ Constitution can be amended but basic structure protected
Exam Tips
- • Difference unitary and federal
- • Name three subjects from Concurrent List
- • Role of Rajya Sabha in federalism
Practice MCQs — Political Science: Federalism
Test your understanding with topic-wise multiple choice questions. Explanations appear after each answer.
Question 1 of 6Score: 0/0
Police is on: