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NCERTExplained - federalism

FEDERALISM

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WHAT IS FEDERALISM?

Federalism is a system of government in which powers are divided between a central authority and individual political units, such as states or provinces. This system allows for a dual level of governance, with each level having its own set of responsibilities and powers. Federalism aims to reconcile unity with diversity by allowing different political units to govern themselves while remaining part of a larger political entity. It’s often seen as a solution to managing large territories with diverse populations.

However, the mere adoption of a federal constitution doesn’t guarantee the unity of a country. The nature of the federal system and how it is practiced are crucial factors in determining the unity and stability of a federation. Below are some factors that can influence the success of a federal system:

1.Flexibility And Adaptability: A federal system needs to be flexible enough to adapt to changing conditions. The system must provide mechanisms for resolving conflicts between different levels of government and among different states or provinces.

2.Cultural And Linguistic Identity: In a diverse federation, states or provinces often have distinct cultural or linguistic identities. A successful federal system respects these identities while maintaining a sense of national unity.

3.Equitable Distribution Of Resources: Inequities in the distribution of natural resources, wealth, and opportunities can lead to grievances that threaten the integrity of a federation. A fair and transparent system for distributing resources can help to mitigate these issues.

4.Political Will: Political leaders must be committed to the principles of federalism and must work actively to uphold them. Failure to do so can result in a breakdown of the system.

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