Question

How does the Indian Constitution define the distribution of powers between the centre and the states? Explain with examples.

Answer 1

The Indian Constitution distributes powers through the Seventh Schedule (Article 246), which separates legislative matters into three lists:

1. Union List: Contains national-level issues concerning which only the Central Government has the authority to pass legislation. Examples include defence, foreign affairs, and banking.
2. State List: Includes issues of local or regional relevance over which state governments have exclusive jurisdiction. Examples include police, agriculture, and public health.
3. Concurrent List: Includes subjects over which both the federal government and the states have legislative authority. If a conflict emerges, the Central law takes precedence. Examples include education, forests, and marriage.