Ethics Theory, TLP-UPSC Mains Answer Writing
Q. 16. India is described as a quasi-federal state, whereas the United States follows a classic federal model. Compare the federal structures of India and the U.S. with respect to legislative, administrative, and financial relations. (250 words, 15 marks)
Introduction
India’s Constitution establishes a federal structure with a unitary bias, often termed quasi-federal (K.C. Wheare), while the U.S. follows a dual federalism model where both the Union and states are sovereign within their spheres.
Body
Federal structures of India and the U.S.
- Legislative Relations
| Feature | India | United States |
| Distribution of Powers | Union, State & Concurrent Lists (7th Schedule) | Enumerated powers to Centre; residual with states |
| Residual Powers | With Centre (Article 248) | With States (10th Amendment) |
| Parliament’s Override Power | Can legislate on state subjects (Art 249, 250) | No override; strict separation |
| Second Chamber (Upper House) | Rajya Sabha represents states, but weaker | Senate represents states equally; very powerful |
| Role of President | Can return bills (except money bills); strong role during emergencies | Has veto power; acts independently of states |
- Administrative Relations
| Feature | India | United States |
| Nature of Executive | Parliamentary system; executive drawn from legislature | Presidential system; separation of powers |
| Control over States | Centre can direct states (Article 256); All India Services | States have independent executive machinery |
| Role of Governor | Appointed by Centre; dual responsibility | Governors are directly elected by the people |
| Emergency
Provisions |
Article 356 allows President’s Rule in states | No such provision in normal circumstances |
| Law Enforcement | Unified services (IPS, IAS) serve both levels | Separate bureaucracies for state and federal levels |
- Financial Relations
| Feature | India | United States |
| Power to Tax | Union collects most taxes; states limited | Both federal and state governments levy taxes |
| Devolution of Funds | Through Finance Commission (Article 280) | States retain more independent revenue |
| Borrowing Powers | States need Centre’s consent for external loans | States borrow independently within limits |
| Vertical Fiscal Imbalance | High – states depend on central transfers | Low – greater fiscal autonomy of states |
| Grants-in-Aid | Provided under Article 275 | Minimal; states largely self-funded |
Conclusion
India’s quasi-federalism reflects its post-colonial need for unity, whereas the U.S. model ensures strong state autonomy rooted in its origin as a union of sovereign states. Each structure suits its unique historical and political context.
