Centre-State relations show how power is divided between the Union and the States in India's federal system. These relations are explained in Part XI and Part XII (Articles 245 to 300). The topic is important for understanding Indian federalism in exams.
Three Types of Relations
Centre-State relations are studied under three heads:
- Legislative relations (Articles 245-255).
- Administrative relations (Articles 256-263).
- Financial relations (Articles 268-293).
Legislative Relations
The Seventh Schedule divides subjects into three lists:
- Union List - subjects of national importance like defence and foreign affairs; Parliament makes laws.
- State List - subjects like police and public health; State legislatures make laws.
- Concurrent List - subjects like education and forests; both can make laws, but Union law prevails in conflict.
Administrative Relations
The States must comply with laws made by Parliament. The Centre can give directions to States in certain matters. Article 263 provides for an Inter-State Council to promote coordination between the Centre and States.
Financial Relations
The Constitution divides taxing powers between the Centre and States. The Finance Commission (Article 280) recommends how taxes are shared. After GST was introduced in 2017, the GST Council manages indirect taxes jointly.
Quick Revision Points
- Centre-State relations are covered in Articles 245 to 300.
- Three types: legislative, administrative, financial.
- The Seventh Schedule has Union, State and Concurrent Lists.
- In the Concurrent List, Union law prevails over State law in conflict.
- Article 263 allows an Inter-State Council.
- The Finance Commission (Article 280) recommends tax sharing.
- The GST Council handles indirect taxes after 2017.