B.3. Provisions in the Constitution to Ensure Federal structure
|
Articles 245 to 254 |
Articles 245 to 254 of the Indian Constitution outline the states and the Centre’s separate legislative powers. |
|
7th Schedule |
The listings in the Constitution’s 7th Schedule — Union, State, and concurrent — also demonstrate a fair distribution of powers, with each level of government having its realm, allowing for context-sensitive decision-making. |
|
Article 263 |
Article 263 established an Inter-State Council to ensure a seamless transition of commerce between the Union and the states, as well as the resolution of disputes. |
|
Article 280 |
Article 280 established the Finance Commission, which was charged with defining the Union’s and states’ financial relationships and terms. |
|
73rd and 74th Amendments |
The 73rd and 74th Amendments further provided structures for local self-government to improve grassroots democracy. |
|
Article 200 |
Article 200 of the Indian Constitution stipulated that the states must obey the laws made by the Central government during emergencies and it empowers the Union Government to earn more power. |
|
Institutions for Federalism |
The Planning Commission was always open to debate on matters relating to the polity’s federal nature and was attentive to the various developmental needs of states. |
|
Inter-state tribunals, the National Development Council, |
Inter-state tribunals, the National Development Council, and other informal bodies have acted as platforms for dialogue between the Union, states, and UTs. |