Class 11 Political Science - CBSE
Federalism
The Class 11 Political Science chapter 'Federalism' explores the constitutional design that divides power between the central government and regional governments in India. It examines the federal provisions in the Indian Constitution, the unique quasi-federal nature of India, the distribution of legislative powers through the Union, State, and Concurrent lists, and the role of the judiciary in resolving center-state disputes. Understanding this chapter is crucial for board exams as it forms the foundation of India's democratic structure, frequently appearing in short-answer questions and long analytical essays about Indian politics and constitutional provisions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Federalism
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and constituent political units like states or provinces.
Division of Powers
The constitutional distribution of legislative subjects into Union List, State List, and Concurrent List as per the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution.
Unitary Features
Provisions in the Indian Constitution that give extra power to the central government, making India 'quasi-federal' or a federal system with a strong center.
Article 356
A controversial constitutional provision allowing the imposition of President's Rule in a state if its constitutional machinery fails.
Asymmetric Federalism
Special provisions given to certain states (like Jammu and Kashmir historically or northeastern states under Article 371) to accommodate regional diversity.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the CBSE Class 11 Political Science exam, this chapter typically carries around 6-8 marks. Common question types include 1-mark objective questions on specific articles or lists, 2-4 mark short answers explaining features of Indian federalism, and 6-mark long questions analyzing whether India is truly federal or unitary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Indian federalism often called 'quasi-federal'?
It is called quasi-federal because while it has two levels of government and a division of powers like a federation, it also has strong unitary features like a single Constitution, single citizenship, an integrated judiciary, and a powerful central government.
What happens if there is a conflict between Union Law and State Law on a Concurrent List subject?
According to Article 254 of the Indian Constitution, if there is any inconsistency between a law made by Parliament and a law made by a State Legislature on a subject in the Concurrent List, the law made by Parliament shall prevail.
What are 'residuary powers' and who holds them in India?
Residuary powers are subjects that are not mentioned in any of the three lists (Union, State, or Concurrent). In India, residuary powers are vested with the Central Parliament, unlike in the US where they belong to the states.
Learn Federalism with Your AI Tutor
10 different ways to study this chapter. Free for 3 chapters per day.
Lecture
Key Points
Interactive
Quiz
Flashcards