(UPSC CSE Mains 2023 - Political Science and International Relations, Paper 1)

Striking a balance between central authority and state autonomy is an ongoing challenge in India''s federalism. Achieving a more equitable distribution of powers and resources between the center and states remains a critical aspect of strengthening India''s federal structure. While India''s Constitution envisions a federal structure, the actual working of Indian federalism has experienced centralizing tendencies. This phenomenon has both historical and contemporary roots.

Historical Context:

• British Legacy: The centralizing tendencies can be traced back to the British colonial legacy. The British administration had a highly centralized structure, and post-independence India inherited this framework.
• Integration of Princely States: The integration of princely states into the Indian Union furthered centralization, as it required a strong center to manage the diverse entities that joined the country.

Centralizing Aspects in Indian Federalism:

• Financial Dependency: One of the key centralizing elements is the financial dependency of states on the central government. Here''s why:
• Revenue Sharing: States depend heavily on the center for financial resources due to the system of revenue sharing. A significant portion of state revenue comes from the central pool.
• Devolution of Funds: While there''s devolution, it often falls short of meeting states'' expenditure requirements, leading to dependency.

Administrative Centralization:

• All-India Services:Services like the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) are controlled by the central government. State governments have limited control over the deployment and functioning of these officers.
• Role of Governors:Governors, appointed by the President, represent the center in the states. Their discretionary powers can sometimes lead to central interference in state affairs.

Emergency Provisions:

• Imposition of President''s Rule:The imposition of President''s Rule in states during emergencies can be seen as a centralizing measure. It suspends the state government, placing it under the direct control of the President.

Contemporary Centralizing Trends:

• GST Implementation: While the Goods and Services Tax (GST) was intended to streamline taxation, it centralized tax collection and administration, reducing states'' fiscal autonomy.
• National Policies: Policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) and the One Nation, One Ration Card scheme have drawn criticism for centralizing education and food distribution policies.
• Federalism During Crises: During crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the central government took centralized control over healthcare, including vaccination distribution and supply of medical resources.

Reasons for Centralizing Tendencies:

• Historical Legacy: India''s colonial past and the need for a strong center during the integration phase have left a lasting centralizing influence.
• Uniformity and Efficiency: Centralization is sometimes seen as a means to achieve uniformity and efficiency in policy implementation across diverse states.
• National Interest:Certain issues, like national security and foreign policy, necessitate a strong central role.
• Political Expediency:Centralization can be politically expedient for the ruling party at the center to maintain control and influence.

While India''s federal structure remains intact on paper, centralizing tendencies persist due to historical legacies, financial dependencies, and contemporary policy decisions. Federalism in India is a delicate balance between centralization and decentralization, reflecting the complexities of governing a vast and diverse nation like India.