Explanation:

India is a federal state because its Constitution provides for the division of powers between the Union and the States. This means that the Constitution of India clearly demarcates the powers and responsibilities of the central government (Union) and the state governments.

Division of Powers:
The division of powers is an essential characteristic of a federal state. In India, the Constitution clearly defines the powers and functions of the Union government and the state governments. The Union government has the power to make laws on subjects listed in the Union List, which includes defense, foreign affairs, currency, etc. On the other hand, the state governments have the power to make laws on subjects listed in the State List, which includes police, public health, agriculture, etc. There is also a Concurrent List where both the Union and the states can make laws on subjects such as criminal law, marriage, bankruptcy, etc. This division of powers ensures that both the Union and the states have their respective areas of jurisdiction and autonomy.

Features of a Federal State:
A federal state typically has certain features that distinguish it from a unitary state. These features include:
1. Dual Government: In a federal state, there are two levels of government - the central government and the state governments. In India, we have the Union government at the center and state governments in each of the states.
2. Written Constitution: A federal state usually has a written constitution that clearly defines the powers and responsibilities of the central and state governments. India has a written constitution that provides for the division of powers between the Union and the states.
3. Autonomy of States: In a federal state, the states have a certain degree of autonomy and can make laws on subjects assigned to them. This autonomy allows the states to govern themselves in areas that fall under their jurisdiction.
4. Supremacy of Constitution: The constitution is the supreme law of the land in a federal state. Both the Union and the state governments are bound by the provisions of the constitution.
5. Independent Judiciary: In a federal state, there is usually an independent judiciary that interprets the constitution and resolves disputes between the Union and the states. In India, we have a separate and independent judiciary that ensures the enforcement of the constitution.

Conclusion:
India is a federal state because its Constitution provides for the division of powers between the Union and the states. This division of powers ensures that both the Union and the states have their respective areas of jurisdiction and autonomy. The features of a federal state, such as dual government, a written constitution, autonomy of states, supremacy of constitution, and independent judiciary, are also present in India.