Cheatsheet: Federalism | Social Studies (SST) Class 10 PDF Download

Overview and Key Concepts

Federalism is a system of governance where power is divided between a central authority and regional entities. This ensures a balance of power, preventing complete centralization.

Introduction to Federalism

The concept of federalism has evolved over centuries and varies in implementation across countries. Some nations, like the United States, adopted federalism early, while others, like Belgium, transitioned to it over time.

Key Features of Federalism

Types of Federations

Federal systems can be formed in two ways:

• Coming Together Federation: Independent states unite to form a larger federation, such as the USA.
• Holding Together Federation: A single large country distributes power among its regions, like India.

Federalism in India

India follows a federal structure with three levels of government:

• Union Government: Handles national matters like defense and foreign affairs.
• State Governments: Manage state-specific issues like police and trade.
• Local Governments: Panchayats and municipalities handle local administration.

Challenges in Federalism

Some challenges in a federal system include:

• Unequal power distribution among states.
• Conflicts over resource allocation and taxation.
• Judicial intervention in disputes between government levels.

Conclusion

Federalism is an essential governance model that balances power and maintains unity in diverse nations. While it has challenges, its flexibility allows countries to address regional needs effectively.