2.13 Centre–State relations notes

1. 2.13.1Legislative relations: the three lists

   The Constitution divides law-making between Parliament and the states through three lists in the Seventh Schedule, and in several situations lets Parliament legislate on state subjects.

   Advanced · 9 min · Full course
2. 2.13.2Administrative relations

   Executive power follows legislative power, but the Union can direct states, delegate its functions to them, and control key services, so the Centre has the upper hand in administration too.

   Advanced · 8 min · Full course
3. 2.13.3Financial relations

   Part XII divides taxing powers between the Union and the states, shares Union taxes with the states through the Finance Commission, and fills the gap with grants, while GST is now shared through the GST Council.

   Advanced · 10 min · Full course
4. 2.13.4Inter-state relations: water disputes, councils and zonal councils

   The Constitution provides for settling inter-state water disputes by tribunals, coordination through the Inter-State Council and zonal councils, mutual recognition of public acts, and free trade across the country.

   Advanced · 10 min · Full course
5. 2.13.5Commissions on Centre–State relations

   From the 1960s, Union and state bodies reviewed how the Centre and states share power. The Sarkaria and Punchhi Commissions are the most important, and their advice on Governors, Article 356 and the Inter-State Council still frames the debate.

   Advanced · 9 min · Full course

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