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

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Every State Government has powers of its own

Courts have the power to interpret the Constitution and the powers of different levels of Government

States are subordinate to the Central Government

Sources of revenue for each level of Government are clearly specified

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CAPF – 2016

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The correct answer is C.

In a federal system, the constituent units (states) are not subordinate to the central government; rather, power is divided between coordinate levels of government, each supreme in its own sphere as defined by the constitution. While the Indian federal system has a strong central bias, the principle of state autonomy in their defined areas means they are not constitutionally subordinate in all respects. Options A, B, and D are features present in the Indian system reflecting aspects of federalism or its framework: states have their own powers (A), courts interpret the constitution and powers (B), and revenue sources are specified (D).

India is often described as ‘quasi-federal’ or ‘federal in form, unitary in spirit’ due to various centralising features like single citizenship, integrated judiciary, appointment of governors by the centre, emergency provisions, and the relatively greater financial power of the centre. However, the division of legislative and executive powers between the Union and States is a core federal feature that contradicts complete state subordination.

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