Q. The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. (250 words, 15 marks)
Why the Question?
UPSC PYQ – CSE Mains – 2015
Keywords of the Question
- Cooperative Federalism
- Increasingly Emphasized
- Drawbacks in existing Structure
- Shortcomings
Directive Word
Highlight – This directive requires you to draw attention to specific points or aspects of a topic. You should emphasize the most important or significant elements, providing clear and concise information to underscore their relevance and impact. The goal is to make these points stand out in your answer.
How to approach this Question?
Introduction
- Define Cooperative Federalism: Briefly explain what cooperative federalism is and its significance in the Indian context.
- Contextualize the Emphasis: Mention the recent emphasis on cooperative federalism and why it has gained importance.
Body
- Drawbacks in the Existing Structure:
- Imbalance of Power: Highlight the centralization of power in the Union government.
- Financial Constraints: Discuss issues related to financial devolution and resource allocation.
- Administrative Challenges: Mention the inefficiencies and bureaucratic hurdles in the current federal structure.
- Lack of Coordination: Point out the coordination issues between different levels of government.
- Extent to Which Cooperative Federalism Addresses Shortcomings:
- Balanced Power Sharing: Explain how cooperative federalism promotes a more equitable distribution of power.
- Efficient Resource Allocation: Discuss improvements in financial devolution and resource management.
- Enhanced Coordination: Highlight the mechanisms for better coordination and collaboration between the Centre and states.
- Inclusive Representation: Mention how cooperative federalism ensures better representation and participation of states in decision-making.
Conclusion
- Summarize the Benefits: Recap how cooperative federalism can address the existing drawbacks.
- Future Prospects: Suggest the potential for further strengthening cooperative federalism to enhance governance and development in India.
Note: Please note that the following ‘answers’ are not ‘model answers’ nor are they synopses in the strictest sense. Instead, they are content designed to meet the demands of the question while providing comprehensive coverage of the topic.
Answer Key
Introduction
Cooperative federalism refers to a system where national, state, and local governments work collaboratively to solve common problems. In recent years, this concept has gained prominence in India due to its potential to enhance governance and development.
Body
Drawbacks in the Existing Structure
- Imbalance of Power: The division of powers heavily favors the Union government. The Union List contains more subjects than the State List, and the Union government has overriding authority over the Concurrent List.
- Financial Constraints: Poor devolution of financial resources from the Centre to the states hampers the states’ ability to manage their affairs effectively.
- Administrative Challenges: Inefficiencies and bureaucratic hurdles often impede effective governance and implementation of policies at the state level.
- Lack of Coordination: There are significant coordination issues between different levels of government, leading to fragmented and inefficient policy implementation.
Extent to Which Cooperative Federalism Addresses Shortcomings
- Balanced Power Sharing: Cooperative federalism promotes a more equitable distribution of power between the Centre and the states, ensuring that states have a greater say in governance.
- Efficient Resource Allocation: The 14th Finance Commission’s recommendation to increase the states’ share in central taxes from 32% to 42% is a step towards better financial devolution.
- Enhanced Coordination: Mechanisms like the NITI Aayog facilitate better coordination and collaboration between the Centre and the states, leading to more cohesive policy implementation.
- Inclusive Representation: Cooperative federalism ensures that states are better represented in decision-making processes, leading to policies that are more attuned to local needs.
Conclusion
Cooperative federalism has the potential to address many of the existing drawbacks in India’s federal structure. By promoting balanced power sharing, efficient resource allocation, enhanced coordination, and inclusive representation, it can significantly improve governance and development outcomes. However, continuous efforts are needed to strengthen these mechanisms and ensure their effective implementation.