Class 11 Political Science - GUJARAT
Federalism
The chapter 'Federalism' in Class 11 Political Science explores the institutional design of power-sharing between the central government and regional governments in India. Students learn why the Indian Constitution opted for a federal system, the unique features of Indian federalism like a single constitution and a strong center, and how federalism accommodates diversity while maintaining national unity. Special focus is given to the division of powers through the Union, State, and Concurrent lists, the role of the judiciary as an arbiter, and emerging trends in Centre-State relations. This chapter is vital for GSEB board exams as it forms the bedrock of understanding the Indian political structure.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Federalism
A institutional system sharing power between two or more levels of government, usually a central authority and constituent regional units.
Division of Powers
The constitutional distribution of legislative subjects into Union List, State List, and Concurrent List as per the Seventh Schedule.
Unitary Features
Constitutional provisions that grant extra power to the central government, making Indian federalism quasi-federal or federal with a strong center.
Role of the Judiciary
The Supreme Court acts as an independent arbiter to resolve disputes between the center and states and interpret constitutional provisions.
Special Status (Article 370 / Provisions)
Special constitutional provisions granted to certain states to meet their specific historical and geographical aspirations and regional demands.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Gujarat (GSEB) Class 11 Political Science board exams, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions frequently include 1-mark objective questions, short answer questions on federal features, and long descriptive questions explaining the division of powers or Centre-State relations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is India a purely federal country?
No, India is described as 'quasi-federal' or a federal system with strong unitary features because the central government holds overriding powers in emergencies and residuary matters.
What happens if there is a conflict between a central law and a state law on a Concurrent List subject?
According to the Indian Constitution, the law made by the Union Parliament prevails over the law made by the State Legislature in case of a repugnancy.
Why did makers of the Indian Constitution prefer a strong central government?
They wanted to prevent national disintegration, maintain unity and integrity amid vast diversity, and effectively tackle socio-economic problems plaguing the newly independent nation.
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