Federalism 11 Political Science Chapter 7 CBSE Notes 2025-26

India’s federal system is a unique feature of its political framework, aiming to maintain unity while accommodating immense diversity. After independence, Indian states underwent several reorganizations—changing boundaries, numbers, and even names—to better reflect the linguistic and cultural wishes of the people. This ongoing transformation shows how federalism in India adapts according to the needs and aspirations of its citizens.

What is Federalism? Federalism is a political system where power is divided between a central authority and regional units (states). Unlike a unitary system, both have their own domains and autonomy. Each Indian is both a citizen of India and their respective state, owning dual identities. Key concepts of federalism include a written constitution, division of responsibilities, and an independent judiciary to resolve disputes between levels of government. India’s model draws from international experiences, adapting features to suit its own society, history, and politics.

Federalism in the Indian Constitution Indian leaders recognized early that sharing power between the centre and states would support both diversity and effective governance. The Constitution never explicitly uses the word “federation”—instead, Article 1 states India is a “Union of States,” showing an emphasis on both unity and diversity. The division of powers is detailed in three lists:

• Union List: Subjects like defense, currency, foreign affairs, and railways are the exclusive domain of the central government.
• State List: Areas such as agriculture, police, public health, and local government are managed by states.
• Concurrent List: Both central and state governments can legislate on matters like education, forests, and marriage.
• Residuary Powers: Matters not mentioned in any list (such as cyber laws) are handled by the union government alone.

One distinctive aspect is that financial powers are largely centralized, leaving states with significant responsibilities but fewer resources. While both central and state governments have constitutional status, disputes over powers may be resolved by the judiciary.

A Strong Centre The Indian Constitution creates a strong central government to preserve national unity and support development, especially important during the early years after independence and integration of princely states. The central government can alter state boundaries, change names, and even create or dissolve states through Parliament. During emergencies, the centre can take complete control, further strengthening national integrity.

Additionally, the central government has powerful financial control, manages key revenue sources, and determines grants to states. Planning and economic decisions were centralized for fast progress. The centre also exercises control using all-India services (like IAS/IPS officers), who can be posted across different states under central authority.

Centre-State Tensions and Demands for Autonomy Over time, as different parties began to rule the centre and various states, states began demanding more autonomy. States have sought greater legislative powers, control over resources, more financial independence, and cultural recognition—like supporting use of local languages and cultures. Demands have often been political rather than legal and need negotiation and cooperation.

The role of Governors has been controversial because they are centrally appointed and can overturn state decisions, like recommending President’s Rule (Article 356), which suspends state governments. This power was rarely used until the late 1960s, but later, several states saw their governments removed or their assemblies dissolved by the centre, making federal relations sometimes tense.

Formation of New States and Interstate Disputes Demands for new states have mainly revolved around language, culture, and administrative efficiency. The States Reorganisation Commission (1953) began creating states based on linguistic lines, a process that continues. Examples include the formation of Gujarat, Maharashtra (1960), Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand (2000), and Telangana (2014).

Interstate conflicts still occur, mainly over borders and water sharing. For example, the Karnataka-Maharashtra dispute over Belgaum and the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu dispute over Cauvery river water show the need for negotiation as well as legal arbitration.

Special Provisions for States Some states have special constitutional arrangements due to unique social or historical traits. The North Eastern states (like Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam) and some hill states have special protections to preserve local cultures and promote development. Earlier, Jammu & Kashmir had special autonomy (Article 370), restricting Parliament’s law-making powers in the state. That autonomy was withdrawn in 2019, making it two union territories—Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Conclusion Federalism in India is like a rainbow—each color stands out but together form a vibrant whole. The smooth working of India’s federal system depends not just on legal rules, but on political cooperation, mutual trust, tolerance, and respect for diversity. Federalism here safeguards both unity and diversity, aiming for cooperative and balanced governance, so that all regions feel included, respected, and empowered.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 7 Notes – Federalism: Indian Constitution at Work (Key Points for Quick Revision)

These Class 11 Political Science notes on Chapter 7 – Federalism cover all the key points from the Indian Constitution at Work. With clear explanations, organized bullet points, and precise facts, students gain a solid understanding of federal provisions, centre-state relations, and special state arrangements. Every section is presented simply for quick last-minute revision.

Use these well-structured notes to easily review the important features, examples, and challenges of federalism in India. The content highlights division of powers, autonomy demands, and interstate disputes, making it perfect for CBSE board exams and competitive test preparation. Strengthen your understanding of the entire chapter in less time!