Embarking on the challenging journey of preparing for the UPSC Mains examination, aspirants often find themselves navigating through a sea of information and resources. Among the numerous optional subjects available, Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) stands out as a popular choice. In this blog series, we delve into the intricacies of the PSIR optional syllabus, focusing specifically on the Federalism topic. By meticulously analyzing the previous year questions spanning from 2013 to 2023, aspirants can gain valuable insights into the evolving trends and nuances of this subject. Understanding the historical context and the changing dynamics of federal structures is not only crucial for answering questions in the examination but also for developing a comprehensive understanding of the political landscape.
The Federalism segment of PSIR poses a myriad of challenges, requiring aspirants to synthesize theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Through a systematic breakdown of the past decade’s questions, this blog aims to provide a roadmap for aspirants, helping them navigate the complexities of federalism in the context of UPSC Mains. Whether you are a seasoned candidate looking to refine your approach or a newcomer seeking a structured study plan, this series is designed to be an invaluable resource on the path to mastering the PSIR optional paper. Join us on this exploration of Federalism in the UPSC Mains, as we unravel the patterns and insights hidden within the pages of previous year questions, providing a strategic advantage to those gearing up for the prestigious examination.
Federalism – Previous Year Questions (UPSC CSE Mains PSIR Optional)
Constitutional provisions; changing nature of centre-state relations; integrationist tendencies and regional aspirations; inter-state disputes.
1. Trace and analyse the co-operative trends in Indian federalism. (1994)
2. Comment: Co-operative federalism. (1996)
3. Comment: Cooperative federalism in India-its problems and prospects. (1998)
4. Comment: ‘Shared rule’ to be as important as ‘self-rule’ in explaining the possibility of federal power sharing. (2000)
5. What are the salient features of Sarkaria Commission Report as regard to federal restructuring in India with special reference to autonomy demand by states? (2000)
6. Comment: Factors for the growth of regionalism in India. (2001)
7. Discuss whether coalitional politics has led to a different pattern of federalism in India. (2006)
8. Comment on Inter State Committees. (2009)
9. Comment: Inter – state water disputes. (2010)
10. Critically examine and comment: “Articles 2 and 3 of the Indian Constitution are inconsistent with the spirit of federalism.” (2010)
11. Critically examine and comment on the assertion in about 200 words: It is not constitutional law but political factors that ultimately determine Centre-States relations in India. (2011)
12. Comment on Demands for the creation of new States in India. (150 words) (2012)
13. Examine the efficacy of available mechanisms for resolving Inter-State disputes in India.(2012)
14. “Cooperative federalism produces a strong central, or general government, yet it does not necessarily result in weak provincial governments that are largely administrative agencies for central policies. Indian federation has demonstrated this.” (Granville Austin). Examine the uniqueness of Indian federalism in the light of the above statement. (2013)
15. Comment in 150 words: Cooperative Federalism in India. (2015)
16. Identify the contested areas in Centre-State relations in India. (2015)
17. Comment: The philosophy and Comment: Economic liberalisation in India administration of the distribution of powers between Centre and state is required to be re-assessed. (2016)
18. Indian federation has moved from cooperative federation to competitive federation. Comment. (2017)
19. Comment in 150 words: Implementation of GST and NEET is a major challenge to Indian federalism. (2018)
20. Discuss asymmetrical federalism in India. (2019)
21. Despite constitutional mandate, the Inter-State Council has not come of age. Discuss. (2020)
22. Answer in 150 words: Mechanism for settling inter-state disputes. (2020)
23. Does the functioning of the federalism in India tend to make it appear as a unitary state in practice? (2021)
24. Do you think that there has been a gradual shift in the basis on which the demands for the creation of new States have been raised in different regions of India? Explain. (2021)
25. Discuss the composition and functions of the Inter-State Council. To what extent has this body been successful in achieving its objectives?(2022)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Federalism, and how does it differ from other forms of government?
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and regional or state entities. The key distinction lies in the distribution of powers between the national and subnational levels. Unlike unitary systems where the central government holds most powers, federal systems empower both levels of government with specific responsibilities. This ensures a balance and often involves a written constitution delineating the powers of each tier.
2. How does Federalism contribute to democratic governance?
Federalism plays a vital role in fostering democratic governance by decentralizing power. This distribution of authority allows for more localized decision-making, which can be responsive to the diverse needs of different regions or states. It also acts as a system of checks and balances, preventing the concentration of power in one entity. This structure encourages citizen participation and ensures that policies are more reflective of the varying interests and cultures within a country.
3. What challenges does Federalism pose in the context of a diverse nation?
While federalism is designed to accommodate diversity, it also presents challenges, especially in countries with significant cultural, linguistic, or economic differences among regions. Striking the right balance between centralization and decentralization can be complex. Issues like regional disparities, conflicts over resource allocation, and the potential for secessionist tendencies are common challenges that must be managed effectively in federal systems.
4. How does Federalism impact economic development?
Federal systems can have a significant impact on economic development. The distribution of economic powers between the central and state governments influences policies related to taxation, trade, and infrastructure development. The coordination and collaboration between different levels of government become crucial in promoting economic growth while addressing regional imbalances.
5. Can Federalism adapt to changing societal needs and global challenges?
Federal systems are dynamic and adaptable, allowing for changes to accommodate evolving societal needs and global challenges. However, the adaptability depends on the flexibility of the constitution and the political will to make necessary adjustments. As societies face new challenges, such as technological advancements or environmental issues, the effectiveness of federal structures in addressing these concerns becomes a subject of ongoing debate and reform.
In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.
For UPSC Prelims Resources, Click here
For Daily Updates and Study Material:
Join our Telegram Channel – Edukemy for IAS
- 1. Learn through Videos – here
- 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs – here
- 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered – here
- 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice – here
