# **Summary of Chapter 2 – Federalism**
## 1. Meaning of Federalism
* Federalism is a **system of government in which power is divided** between a central authority and regional/state governments.
* Both levels of government are independent and derive authority from the Constitution.
* It ensures **unity in diversity** by allowing different regions to govern themselves while being part of one nation.
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## 2. Key Features of Federalism
1. **Two or more levels of government:**
* One central government and state governments.
2. **Division of Powers:**
* Powers are clearly divided by the Constitution.
* Neither level can take away powers of the other.
3. **Supremacy of the Constitution:**
* The Constitution is the highest law, and both central and state governments must follow it.
4. **Independent Judiciary:**
* Courts settle disputes between central and state governments.
5. **Dual Objectives:**
* To safeguard the unity of the country.
* To accommodate regional diversity.
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## 3. Federalism in India
* India is a **Union of States** with a strong central government but also powerful state governments.
* The **Constitution (Seventh Schedule)** divides subjects into three lists:
1. **Union List** – subjects of national importance (defense, foreign affairs, banking, etc.).
2. **State List** – subjects of local/state importance (police, trade, agriculture, irrigation, etc.).
3. **Concurrent List** – subjects of common interest (education, marriage, forests, electricity, etc.). Both center and states can make laws, but central law prevails in case of conflict.
* **Residuary Powers:** Subjects not mentioned in any list are under the Union government.
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## 4. Importance of Federalism
* Ensures **power-sharing** between different levels of government.
* Maintains **national unity** while respecting regional diversity.
* Promotes **efficiency in administration** by giving states control over local matters.
* Strengthens **democracy** by giving citizens multiple levels of representation.
* Encourages **economic and social development** in all regions.
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## 5. Challenges of Federalism
* **Centralization of Power:** Sometimes the central government tries to dominate state governments.
* **Disputes between center and states:** Conflicts arise over sharing of resources, boundaries, or laws.
* **Misuse of President's Rule (Article 356):** Central government can dismiss a state government, which weakens federalism.
* **Economic Inequalities:** Some states develop faster than others, leading to imbalance.
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## 6. Conclusion
* Federalism is essential for a large and diverse country like India.
* It balances unity with diversity, and central power with regional autonomy.
* Its success depends on **cooperation and trust** between the center and the states.
* Strong federalism ensures **stability, development, and true democracy**.
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