Class 11 Political Science - KARNATAKA
Federalism
The chapter 'Federalism' in Class 11 Political Science explores the constitutional arrangements for power-sharing between the central government and state governments in India. It examines the federal provisions in the Indian Constitution, why India chose a quasi-federal system, the distribution of legislative powers through the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists, and the role of the judiciary in resolving disputes. Understanding federalism is crucial for board exams as it forms the backbone of India's democratic structure and frequently appears in long and short-answer questions.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Federalism
A system of government where power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country, such as states or provinces.
Division of Powers
The constitutional distribution of legislative subjects into three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List, as specified in the Seventh Schedule.
Unitary Features
Provisions in the Indian Constitution that give more power to the central government, making India a 'quasi-federal' state with a strong centre.
Governor's Role
The constitutional head of a state appointed by the Centre, often acting as a vital yet debated link between the state and central governments.
Special Status (Article 370 & 371)
Provisions that granted special autonomous status or specific safeguards to certain states in India to accommodate regional diversity.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In Karnataka (KSEEB) Class 11 Political Science examinations, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions usually include 1-mark multiple choice questions, 2-mark short answers defining key terms like federalism or the lists of powers, and 5-mark descriptive questions explaining the federal and unitary features of the Indian Constitution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Indian federalism called 'quasi-federal'?
India has a federal system with a division of powers, but it also contains strong unitary features like a single Constitution, single citizenship, an integrated judiciary, and a powerful Centre, leading K.C. Wheare to describe it as quasi-federal.
What happens if there is a conflict between Union and State laws on a Concurrent List subject?
According to Article 254 of the Indian Constitution, if a state law on a Concurrent List subject conflicts with a central law, the law made by the Parliament prevails over the state law.
What are residuary powers and who holds them in India?
Residuary powers refer to subjects that do not fall under any of the three legislative lists (Union, State, or Concurrent), such as cyber law. In India, residuary powers are vested in the Union Parliament.
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