Distribution of Powers between Centre and States in Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution provides for a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Centre and the States. The distribution of powers is based on the scheme provided in the Government of India Act, 1935, which was the basis for the Constitution of India.

Listed below are the key features of the distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution:

1. Union List, State List and Concurrent List

The Constitution of India divides the powers between the Centre and the States into three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List. The Union List includes subjects that are exclusively under the control of the Centre. The State List includes subjects that are exclusively under the control of the States. The Concurrent List includes subjects that are shared by the Centre and the States.

2. Residuary Powers

The Constitution of India also provides for residuary powers, which are not included in any of the three lists. These powers are vested in the Centre.

3. Parliament and State Legislatures

The Constitution of India provides for a bicameral Parliament consisting of the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha represents the States and the Union Territories, while the Lok Sabha represents the people of India. The State Legislatures are also bicameral, consisting of the Legislative Council and the Legislative Assembly.

4. Financial Powers

The Constitution of India also provides for the distribution of financial powers between the Centre and the States. The Centre has the power to levy taxes on income, customs, excise, and services. The States have the power to levy taxes on sales and value-added tax.

Conclusion

Thus, the distribution of powers between the Centre and the States in the Indian Constitution is based on the scheme provided in the Government of India Act, 1935. The Constitution provides for a federal system of government with a division of powers between the Centre and the States, which is essential for the smooth functioning of the government.