Describe the distribution of powers between the Union and the States in India

116 Oct 2024

Nikhil Kumar2 followers

The Constitution of India divides the powers between the Union and the States to ensure a balanced and effective system of governance. This division of powers is outlined in three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List.

1. Union List

The Union List contains subjects on which only the Union Parliament can legislate. These subjects are of national importance, and the Union government holds exclusive power over them.

Sub-topics under this:

Defense: The Union has the exclusive right to legislate on matters related to the defense of the country.
Foreign Affairs: The Union government controls all matters concerning foreign relations, including treaties and international agreements.
Railways: The Union has the sole authority to make laws regarding the railway system, including transportation and infrastructure.
Currency: The Union is responsible for regulating and managing the currency of the nation.

2. State List

The State List outlines subjects on which only the State Legislatures have the power to legislate. These are matters of regional or local concern and are dealt with by the individual state governments.

Sub-topics under this:

Police and Public Order: States have the authority to make laws on matters related to law enforcement and public order within their jurisdiction.
Education: States can legislate on issues related to primary, secondary, and higher education within their territories.
Public Health: States are responsible for managing public health issues, including healthcare facilities and epidemics.
Local Government: States have the power to establish and govern local bodies like municipalities and Panchayats.

3. Concurrent List

The Concurrent List consists of subjects on which both the Union and the States can legislate. In case of conflict, Union law prevails over State law.

Sub-topics under this:

Criminal Law: Both Union and State governments can make laws related to criminal justice, but in case of conflict, Union laws prevail.
Marriage and Divorce: Both the Union and the States have the authority to make laws regarding marriage and divorce, although in certain cases, the Union"s law may take precedence.
Banking: The Union and States can legislate on banking matters, but national banking regulations are under the Union"s jurisdiction.
Economic Planning: Both governments can legislate on economic planning and regulation of industries, with Union laws often taking precedence in matters of national interest.

Key Questions for Revision

What is the Union List?
The Union List contains subjects on which only the Union Parliament can legislate, including defense, foreign affairs, and currency.
What powers do the States have under the State List?
The States have the authority to legislate on subjects like police, education, public health, and local government.
What is the Concurrent List?
The Concurrent List consists of subjects on which both the Union and the States can legislate. In case of conflict, Union law prevails.

In summary, the division of powers between the Union and the States in India ensures that both levels of government function efficiently. The Union List covers national matters, the State List covers regional issues, and the Concurrent List allows both to legislate on certain subjects, with Union laws taking precedence in case of conflict.