Question 44 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Polity and
Governance

Question

Which one of the following is not a feature of Indian federalism?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: D. It is the result of an agreement among the federating units.

Strategy: Scan for the unique phrase among the options. Most are standard features of Indian federalism, but option D uses 'agreement among the federating units'—a feature of classic federal states like the US, not India. India's union resulted from a constitutionally enacted process, not a voluntary agreement, so option D is not a feature. The other options reflect genuine federal features: independent judiciary, division of powers, and unequal Rajya Sabha representation.

Key Info: Indian federalism has several distinct characteristics that set it apart from other federal systems.

*   **Division of Powers:** Powers are constitutionally divided between the Union and the States under the Seventh Schedule.
*   **Unequal Representation:** The Rajya Sabha provides unequal representation to states, such as Uttar Pradesh having 31 seats while Sikkim has 1.
*   **Independent Judiciary:** An independent judiciary, headed by the Supreme Court, ensures constitutional supremacy and resolves disputes between the Centre and States.
*   **Formation by Constitution:** The Indian Union was not formed by an agreement among states but by a Constitution enacted by a Constituent Assembly. Consequently, states have no inherent right to secede.
*   **Flexibility and Unitary Bias:** The system is flexible, with Parliament empowered to alter state boundaries (Article 3) and a unitary bias during emergencies (Articles 352–360).
*   **Cooperative Federalism:** This concept emphasizes central predominance in critical areas, including residuary legislative powers (Article 248), All-India services, and emergency powers.

Answer

Option A: There is an independent judiciary in India.

Answer

Option B: Powers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States.

Answer

Option C: The federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha.