Class 10 Social Science - GUJARAT
Political Science: Federalism
The Class 10 Political Science chapter on Federalism explores how power is shared between the central government and state governments in India. Students will learn the key features of federalism, the difference between unitary and federal systems, and how India's quasi-federal structure operates. The chapter highlights the division of powers through the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List, and examines the role of linguistic states, language policy, and center-state relations. Understanding these concepts is vital for GSEB board exams as they form the backbone of Indian democratic polity and frequently appear in objective, short, and long-answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Federalism
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units, such as states or provinces.
Union List
Subjects of national importance like defense, foreign affairs, and banking on which only the central government can make laws.
State List
Subjects of state and local importance such as police, trade, agriculture, and irrigation on which only state governments make laws.
Concurrent List
Subjects of common interest to both the center and states, such as education, forests, and marriage, where both can legislate.
Decentralization
When power is taken away from central and state governments and given to local government bodies, known as the third tier of democracy.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 10 Social Science board examination, this chapter typically carries around 4 to 6 marks. Questions usually include Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs), 1-mark or 2-mark short answers, and occasionally a 3-mark descriptive question explaining the key features of Indian federalism or the division of powers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a unitary system and a federal system?
In a unitary system, either all power is with the sub-units or the central government is supreme. In a federal system, power is constitutionally divided between the central government and provincial governments, and neither can override the other.
How does India practice federalism if the Constitution does not use the word 'federation'?
Article 1 of the Indian Constitution describes India as a 'Union of States'. Although it incorporates features of a federation like division of powers and an independent judiciary, it also has strong unitary biases like a single constitution and a powerful center, making it a quasi-federal system.
What are residuary subjects and who makes laws on them?
Residuary subjects are those subjects that do not fall under any of the three lists (Union, State, or Concurrent), such as computer software. According to the Indian Constitution, the Union Government has the power to make laws on these subjects.
Learn Political Science: Federalism with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards