Indian Democracy in 100 Notes · 🏛️ Theme 3: Parliament & federalism
Federalism in India: Strong Centre, Strong States, Constant Negotiation
India is described in Article 1 of the Constitution as a "Union of States", not as a federation formed by states coming together. That wording matters. The Constitution divides power between the Union and the states, but it gives the Centre several strong levers, which is why scholars often call India "quasi-federal" — federal in structure, with a unitary tilt. The Supreme Court held in S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994) that federalism is part of the Constitution's basic structure, so it cannot simply be amended away, even though its exact balance remains contested.
The main division of law-making power is in the Seventh Schedule, which lists subjects under three heads: the Union List, for Parliament alone, covering matters such as defence, foreign affairs, currency and railways; the State List, for state legislatures alone, covering matters such as police, public health and agriculture; and the Concurrent List, where both can legislate, covering matters such as education, forests and criminal procedure. Where a state law conflicts with a central law on a Concurrent subject, the central law generally prevails. Residuary powers — over subjects not listed anywhere — rest with Parliament, unlike in the United States, where they rest with the states.
In practice, federalism is a negotiation, not a fixed map. The Centre controls most major revenue sources, while states carry much of the responsibility for policing, health, schooling and local services, which creates constant argument over money. The Centre can also legislate on State subjects in defined circumstances, and President's Rule under Article 356 allows central intervention when a state government is said to be unable to function constitutionally — a power whose use has repeatedly been politically contested. At the same time, states run their own governments, budgets, police forces and political debates, and regional parties often shape national coalitions. Federalism in India is therefore best understood as a continuing bargain, argued out in legislatures, courts, finance bodies and elections.
Suggested picture (licence to confirm): Political map of India EN.svg — licence not confirmed, so the image is not embedded here.
Key takeaways
- Article 1 calls India a "Union of States"; the Supreme Court has held federalism to be part of the basic structure.
- The Seventh Schedule divides subjects into Union, State and Concurrent Lists, with central law generally prevailing on concurrent conflicts.
- The Centre holds stronger revenue and residuary powers, while states carry major service responsibilities — hence constant negotiation.
Why it matters for civil studies: Almost every major policy dispute — from health and education to policing and taxation — turns on which level of government has the power, the money and the mandate.
Discussion question: Is India's strong Centre a necessary glue for a diverse country, or does it leave states too dependent to govern well?
Fact-checked copy, 1 November 2026. Disputed claims are attributed in the text; moving topics should be re-checked at the time of reading.