Question 72 from UPSC CSE 2024 - Polity & Governan ce

Question

Which one of the following statements is correct as per the Constitution of India?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. Inter-state quarantine is a union subject under the Union List.

Strategy: Review each statement for subject allocation by recalling entries from the Union and State Lists in the Seventh Schedule. Inter-state topics are typically centralized for uniformity, so inter-state quarantine logically belongs to the Union List. The terms 'trade and commerce', 'migration', and 'corporation tax' also trigger recall that these are Union subjects. By elimination, only inter-state quarantine as a Union subject fits as correct.

Key Info: The Constitution of India divides legislative subjects between the Union and States through the Seventh Schedule, which contains the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.

*   **Inter-state trade and commerce:** Under Entry 42 of the Union List, not the State List. The Union List covers matters of national importance and inter-state coordination, such as defence, foreign affairs, and cross-border commerce.
*   **Inter-state migration and quarantine:** Both under Entry 81 of the Union List, meaning only Parliament can legislate on these subjects. Inter-state quarantine refers to the regulation of preventing the spread of infectious diseases across state boundaries.
*   **Corporation tax:** Under Entry 85 of the Union List. States levy taxes like sales tax and stamp duties, but major direct taxes such as corporation tax are exclusive to the Union Government.
*   **State List subjects:** Includes police, public health within the state, agriculture, and local government, but not matters involving multiple states or central economic controls.
*   **Division of powers:** Ensures uniformity in policies on inter-state issues, maintaining economic integration and national health security.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: Inter-state trade and commerce is a state subject under the State List.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Inter-state migration is a state subject under the State List.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Corporation tax is a state subject under the State List.