CENTRE-STATE RELATIONS
Centre-state relations in India have been a subject of significant debate and discussion since the inception of the country's federal system. The division of powers between the central and state governments is a delicate balancing act, designed to ensure that both levels of government can work in harmony to meet the needs and aspirations of India's diverse population. However, the relationship between the central and state governments has been characterized by tension and conflict at times, particularly when it comes to issues such as finance, resources, and the allocation of powers.
At the heart of the centre-state relations is the need to balance regional autonomy with national unity. The Constitution of India provides for a distribution of powers between the central and state governments, outlining the responsibilities of each level of government. However, the Constitution also provides for the central government to intervene in state affairs in specific circumstances, such as when there is a breakdown of constitutional machinery. This balance between regional autonomy and central intervention has been a contentious issue, particularly in light of the unitary features of the Indian Constitution.
In recent years, there has been a shift towards cooperative federalism, where the central and state governments work together to achieve common goals. This has been facilitated by the establishment of institutions such as the Inter-State Council, which provides a platform for dialogue and cooperation between the central and state governments. However, the challenges facing centre-state relations in India remain significant, particularly in the areas of financial autonomy, resource allocation, and regional disparities.
The study of centre-state relations in India can be broadly classified into three main topics: legislative relations, administrative relations, and financial relations.
Legislative relations refer to the distribution of powers between the central and state legislatures. The Constitution of India outlines the responsibilities of both the central and state governments, and each level of government has the power to legislate in specific areas. This distribution is provided in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, which categorizes subjects into three lists:
1.Union List: Contains subjects on which only the Parliament can legislate. These include defence, foreign affairs, atomic energy, and railways.