MP Board · Class 10 · Social Science · Civics: FederalismExplain the key features of Federalism. How is federalism different from a unitary form of government? Discuss with examples.

Introduction to Federalism\nFederalism is a system of government in which the power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country. Usually, a federation has two levels of government: one is the government for the entire country that is usually responsible for a few subjects of common national interest, and others are governments at the level of provinces or states that look after much of the day-to-day administration of their state.

Key Features of Federalism

1. Two or more levels of government: There are multiple levels of governance, each having its own jurisdiction in specific matters like legislation, taxation, and administration.
2. Jurisdiction of each tier is specified: The jurisdictions of the respective levels or tiers of government are specified in the constitution. Thus, the existence and authority of each tier of government are constitutionally guaranteed.
3. Rigid Constitution: The fundamental provisions of the constitution cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of government. Such changes require the consent of both levels of the government.
4. Financial Autonomy: Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified by the constitution to ensure financial autonomy.
5. Dual Objectives: The federal system has dual objectives: to safeguard and promote unity of the country, while at the same time accommodate regional diversity.

Difference Between Federal and Unitary Government

• Power Distribution: In a federal system, powers are divided between the center and the states, whereas in a unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government.
• Central Authority: In unitary systems, the central government can pass orders to the provincial government. In contrast, in a federal system, the central government cannot order the state government to do something.
• Examples: India, USA, and Canada have federal systems of government, whereas countries like the United Kingdom, China, and Sri Lanka have unitary systems.