NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social Science Political Science Chapter 2: Federalism
Federalism is a system of government in which power is constitutionally divided between a central authority and various constituent units such as states or provinces. Chapter 2 of NCERT Class 10 Social Science (Political Science) explores federalism as a key feature of India's democratic structure and examines how this system functions in practice. The chapter begins by defining federalism and contrasting it with a unitary system, where all power is held by the central government. In a federal system like India's, there are two or more levels of government, each with independent jurisdiction over specific subjects, and the constitution serves as the supreme authority.
The chapter explains the key features of federalism — dual government, written constitution, division of powers, constitutional supremacy, independent judiciary, and bicameralism. It then examines how federalism works in India through the three-tiered structure of the Union Government, State Governments, and Local Self-Governments (Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies). The chapter also discusses the difference between coming-together federations like the USA (where independent states voluntarily merge) and holding-together federations like India (where a large country divides power to maintain unity). The policy of linguistic reorganisation of states in India and the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which empowered local bodies, are also important topics discussed in this chapter for Class 10 board examinations. Must check NCERT solutions prepared by Myclass24 Experts for NCERT Solutions for Class 10 and NCERT solutions for Class 10 Social Science.
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Key Points of Chapter 2: Federalism
- Definition: Federalism is a system where power is divided between a national government and regional governments, each operating independently within their own domain.
- Coming-Together vs Holding-Together Federations: In coming-together federations (USA, Switzerland, Australia), independent states join to form a union; in holding-together federations (India, Spain, Belgium), a central government shares power with states to keep a diverse nation united.
- Three Lists in India: The Indian Constitution divides powers into the Union List (97 subjects like defence, banking), State List (66 subjects like police, agriculture), and Concurrent List (52 subjects like forests, trade unions) where both Centre and State can legislate.
- Residuary Powers: Subjects not mentioned in any list fall under residuary powers, which belong to the Union Government in India — unlike in the USA, where they belong to states.
- Linguistic Reorganisation of States: After independence, India reorganised state boundaries largely on linguistic lines (e.g., Andhra Pradesh for Telugu speakers) to accommodate regional identities.
- Decentralisation: The 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992) created a third tier of government — Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies — making India a three-level federal system.
- Centre-State Relations: India is described as a 'holding-together federation' where the Centre is stronger; states cannot secede, and the Centre can override states under Article 356 (President's Rule).
- Independent Judiciary: A strong Supreme Court ensures that both Centre and states respect constitutional boundaries and resolves federal disputes.
Chapter 2: Federalism — Key Comparison Tables
Table 1: Union List vs State List vs Concurrent List
| Feature | Union List | State List | Concurrent List |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Subjects (approx.) | 97 subjects | 66 subjects | 52 subjects |
| Who Legislates | Only Parliament (Central Government) | Only State Legislature | Both Parliament and State Legislature |
| Examples of Subjects | Defence, foreign affairs, banking, currency, railways, atomic energy | Police, agriculture, trade, prisons, local government | Education, forests, trade unions, marriage, adoption |
| In Case of Conflict | Union Law prevails | State Law prevails in state | Central Law prevails over State Law |
| Residuary Powers | Residuary powers belong to the Union | — | — |
Table 2: Coming-Together vs Holding-Together Federations
| Aspect | Coming-Together Federation | Holding-Together Federation |
|---|---|---|
| Formation | Independent states come together voluntarily to form a union | A large country divides power among states to hold diverse groups together |
| Examples | USA, Switzerland, Australia | India, Spain, Belgium |
| Nature of Union | States are more powerful; retain significant autonomy | Central government is usually stronger; states have less autonomy |
| Right to Secede | Original states may retain theoretical sovereignty | No state has the right to secede from the union |
| Motivation | Security and economic benefits of unity | Managing internal diversity and preventing fragmentation |
| Power Balance | States share power with Centre on more equal terms | Centre holds more power in areas of national importance |
NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social Science (Political Science) Chapter 2: Federalism
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central government and state governments. Both levels have their own areas of authority and responsibilities defined by the Constitution. Key features include multiple levels of government, constitutional division of powers, independent judiciary, and clear distribution of financial resources. Federalism allows regional governments to address local needs while maintaining national unity. This system helps accommodate diversity and ensures efficient administration in large and varied countries. India follows a federal structure with a strong central government and autonomous state governments.
The Constitution divides powers into three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. The Union List includes subjects of national importance such as defense and foreign affairs. The State List covers areas like police, agriculture, and public health. The Concurrent List includes subjects where both central and state governments can make laws, such as education and forests. This division helps avoid conflicts and clarifies responsibilities. In case of disagreements regarding Concurrent List subjects, the law made by Parliament generally prevails. Such arrangements ensure balanced governance across the country.
Local governments bring administration closer to the people and encourage public participation in decision-making. Institutions such as Panchayats in rural areas and Municipalities in urban areas address local issues effectively. They understand community needs better and can provide services more efficiently. Constitutional amendments gave these bodies greater authority and regular elections. Local governments also increase opportunities for women and marginalized groups to participate in governance through reserved seats. Their presence strengthens grassroots democracy by ensuring that citizens have a direct role in shaping policies affecting their daily lives.