Question

Describe any five features of federalism. 

Highlight any two key features of federalism.

Describe any three features of federalism in India.

Answer 1

1. There are two or more levels (or tiers) of government.
2. Different tiers of government govern the same citizens, but each tier has its own jurisdiction in specific matters of legislation, taxation, and administration.
3. The jurisdictions of the respective levels or tiers of government are specified in the constitution. Therefore, the constitution guarantees the existence and authority of each tier of government.
4. One level of government cannot unilaterally change the fundamental provisions of the Constitution. Such changes require the consent of both levels of government.
5. Courts have the power to interpret the Constitution and the powers of different levels of government. The highest court acts as an umpire if disputes arise between different levels of government in the exercise of their respective powers.
6. Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy.
7. The federal system thus has dual objectives: to safeguard and promote the unity of the country while, at the same time, accommodating regional diversity. Therefore, two aspects are crucial for the institutions and practice of federalism. Governments at different levels should agree to some rules of power sharing. They should also trust that each would abide by its part of the agreement. An ideal federal system has both aspects: mutual trust and agreement to live together.