GS2 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Centre- State & Inter State Relations | Indian Polity for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Q1: What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State Relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States for strengthening federalism. (Answer in 250 words)
Ans: 
Introduction
Centre-state relations in India refer to the distribution of authority and responsibilities between the central and state governments, which is a fundamental aspect of India's democratic structure. This division is enshrined in Part XI of the Indian Constitution.
Body
Recent Developments in Centre-State Relations:

• At the Administrative Level: In 2014, the Union government replaced the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog to foster cooperative federalism.
• At the Legislative Level: The abrogation of Article 370 in 2019 allowed for the complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir into India. In 2024, the Union Cabinet approved the "one nation, one election" proposal, which aims to hold synchronized elections across the country.
• At the Financial Level: The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) marked a significant shift in fiscal federalism. However, it has led to reduced fiscal autonomy for states, as tax rates are now decided by the GST Council.

Concerns

• Administrative Concerns: There are issues regarding the misuse of Article 356, the deployment of Central forces without state approval, and the role of Governors.
• Additionally, the rising number of Centrally Sponsored Schemes limits states’ ability to focus on their own priorities.
• Legislative Concerns: The Centre has been encroaching on state matters, particularly in relation to state-list subjects, and there are frequent delays in obtaining assent for state laws.
  For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centre invoked the Disaster Management Act, 2005, which imposed binding guidelines on states, despite public health being a state subject.
• Financial Concerns: There is an increasing centralization of power in resource allocation and economic decision-making, which affects states' financial independence.

Building Trust Between the Centre and States
To improve centre-state relations, fostering better communication and decision-making is crucial. This can be achieved by strengthening the role of the Inter-State Council, as recommended by the Sarkaria Commission in 1983.
Recommendations from the Second Administrative Reforms Commission (1969) for enhancing cooperative federalism include:

• Establishing an effective Inter-State Council.
• Delegating greater powers to states.
• Enhancing financial transfers from the Centre to the states.
• Appointing non-partisan, experienced individuals as Governors.
• Limiting the use of Articles 355 and 356 to avoid infringing on state autonomy.

Conclusion
For stronger federalism, it is essential to enhance dialogue through the Inter-State Council, ensure timely legislative processes, and provide states with greater financial independence.​

Q2: Indian Constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts.
Ans: Constituent Assembly's Views: Prominent Constituent Assembly members emphasized the need for a stronger Union government to ensure India's survival and political stability amidst its diverse landscape. The Indian Constitution inherently favors the Union government, establishing it as superior to the states in various aspects.

Centralizing Aspects of the Constitution:

• Article 1: Describes India as a Union of States, highlighting a strong and indivisible Union despite the states' destructible nature.
• Distribution of Powers: The Union List contains more subjects than the State List, with Union laws prevailing in case of deadlock in the Concurrent List. Additionally, residual powers remain with the Union.
• Centralizing Provisions: Features like a single Constitution, single citizenship, and all-India public services manifest centralizing tendencies.

Examples of Centralizing Actions:

• Disaster Management Act, 2005: Enabled the Union to combat COVID-19 despite health being a state subject.
• Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897: Granted states authority to control disease outbreaks, utilized during COVID-19 with Union advisories made enforceable.
• Three Farm Acts: Introduced by the Central government under the Concurrent List, entering the agricultural sphere, typically a State subject.

Essential Role of a Strong Union: A robust Union is crucial for coordinating crucial national matters, ensuring peace. While centralizing aspects exist, India's federal structure includes features like a dual polity and bicameral parliament.