Main Features of Federalism :

(i) There are two or more levels of government. India has
three levels.

(ii) Each level of government has its own jurisdiction in
matters of legislation, taxation and administration even though they govern the
same citizens.

(iii) Powers and functions of each tier of government is
specified and guaranteed by Constitution.

(iv) The Supreme Court has been given power to settle
disputes between federal governments.

(v) Fundamental provisions of Constitution cannot be altered
by any one level of government. It applies to India also.

 (vi) Sources of
revenue between different levels is specified by Constitution.

(vii) There is mutual trust and agreement between the
government at different levels.





I hope AP smj gye hoge. : )

**Features of Federalism**

Federalism is a system of government that divides powers between a central authority and multiple regional or state governments. It is characterized by several key features that contribute to its functioning and effectiveness.

1. **Division of Powers**: One of the fundamental features of federalism is the division of powers between the central government and the regional governments. The constitution clearly outlines the powers and responsibilities of each level of government, ensuring a clear separation of authority. This division helps prevent the concentration of power and allows for a distribution of responsibilities.

2. **Dual Government**: Federalism establishes two distinct levels of government - the central or federal government and the regional governments. Each level of government has its own separate jurisdiction and authority. The central government handles matters of national importance, such as defense, foreign policy, and currency, while regional governments deal with issues specific to their respective regions, such as education, healthcare, and transportation.

3. **Supremacy of the Constitution**: In a federal system, the constitution serves as the supreme law of the land. It delineates the powers and limitations of both the central and regional governments, ensuring that neither level of government can exceed its prescribed authority. This principle provides a framework for resolving disputes and maintaining the balance of power.

4. **Autonomy of Regional Governments**: Federalism grants a significant degree of autonomy to regional governments. While they have limited authority compared to the central government, they retain the power to administer their regions according to their specific needs and aspirations. This autonomy allows for the representation of diverse regional interests and facilitates effective governance at the local level.

5. **Shared Sovereignty**: Federalism involves the sharing of sovereignty between the central and regional governments. Both levels of government possess a degree of sovereignty and exercise authority over their respective spheres. This shared sovereignty fosters cooperation and coordination between different levels of government, ensuring the overall functioning of the federal system.

6. **Inter-Governmental Relations**: Federalism necessitates cooperation and coordination between the central and regional governments. Inter-governmental relations play a crucial role in facilitating policy implementation, resolving conflicts, and promoting cooperation. Various mechanisms, such as conferences, councils, and committees, are established to facilitate communication and collaboration between different levels of government.

7. **Protection of Regional Interests**: Federalism safeguards the interests of different regions within a country. Regional governments have the authority to make decisions that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of their respective regions. This ensures that the concerns and priorities of diverse regions are adequately represented and addressed in the governance process.

In conclusion, federalism is characterized by the division of powers, dual government structure, supremacy of the constitution, autonomy of regional governments, shared sovereignty, inter-governmental relations, and protection of regional interests. These features ensure a balanced distribution of power, promote local governance, and accommodate diverse regional aspirations within a unified framework of governance.