GS2 · Topic
Centre-State Relations
Legislative, administrative and financial relations, and disputes between them.
125 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Centre-State Relations that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
The restrictions imposed under Article 293 of the Constitution on State borrowing powers, though constitutionally valid, may hinder fiscal autonomy of States and disrupt cooperative federalism. Discuss in the light of recent developments.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Discuss the recent changes and initiatives related to cooperatives that aim to smoothen the tussle between the Centre and States in the cooperative sector.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
The Supreme Court, in a recent verdict, prescribed a time period for the Governor's assent to state legislative bills. What are the implications of this judgment for cooperative federalism and legislative accountability in India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 11 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
How does the power and authority of Delhi's lieutenant governor compare to that of the governors of other states, particularly in terms of acting on the aid and advice of the council of ministers?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 10 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
ExecutiveFederalism
In what ways are the terms of reference of the 16th Finance Commission different from that of the previous Finance Commissions? Despite increasingly progressive devolution by subsequent Finance Commissions, examine the factors that propel economic disparities across various States.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
While cooperative federalism is rooted in the design of the Constitution, political considerations have given rise to competitive and confrontational federalism. Examine the role of constitutional and extra-constitutional institutions in reconciling these trends within India's federal structure.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
FederalismCentre-State Relations
'The Governor's office is neither decorative nor inconsequential, it assumes a constitutional role of profound essence'. To what extent does the Governor, actively contribute to the governance of a state and reinforce the principles of federalism in the country?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
ExecutiveFederalism
The role of Governors in opposition-ruled States has been a flashpoint in Centre-State relations. Critically discuss how gubernatorial overreach challenges the position of state governments and suggest safeguards to mitigate such conflicts.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
While the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) plays a crucial role in combating corruption, its functioning is often criticized for being partisan and acting against the federal spirit. Discuss with the help of suitable examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Statutory and Regulatory BodiesFederalism
The Constitution envisages the "principle of federal supremacy" in the executive space of Indian federal polity. Discuss while referring to the relevant Constitutional provisions and case laws. How are contentious issues regarding the distribution of powers resolved?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Delimitation of seats is essential to ensure fair representation and uphold the principles of one vote, one value. Highlighting the challenges posed by misrepresentation in constituencies analyse the ramifications of population-based delimitation in creating federal tension.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismElections and Representation
Governors in India often overstep their constitutional role and fail to act effectively when needed. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ExecutiveCentre-State Relations
The Supreme Court of India has upheld unique asymmetry in India's federalism by intricately balancing centralized authority and regional autonomy. Discuss with the help of relevant case laws.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Federal governance is characterised by institutionalized arrangements for solving problems generated by pluralism based on consultation and mutual consent. How have Zonal Councils evolved from merely advisory bodies to proactive platforms for action?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismCentre-State Relations
Examine the role of the Inter-state Council in promoting vertical (Centre-State) and horizontal (Inter-State) Intergovernmental cooperation and coordination.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
'The delimitation process creates a wedge between representative democracy and federalism.' Examine. Also suggest measures to address the concerns of federal units.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
FederalismElections and Representation
Presence of multiple parastatals erodes the autonomy of Urban Local Bodies. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Local GovernmentFederalism
'Financial resources of the centre are elastic and substantial while that of the states are inelastic and inadequate.' Examine.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Recognizing the pivotal role of urbanization as a driver of national economic growth, the Fifteenth Finance Commission has suggested major reforms for Urban Local Bodies. Evaluate the recommendations put forward by the Fifteenth Finance Commission in promoting and revitalizing ULBs in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Local GovernmentSeparation of Powers
Assess the effectiveness of Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 in resolution of river-water disputes. Also describe the potential impact of delays in resolution of water disputes.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2022–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
"Interstate border disputes, if not promptly and impartially settled, can transform into persistent issues that impede development and generate friction." Highlighting the constitutional and legal framework to resolve interstate disputes, explain why Independent India has failed to resolve inter-state border disputes.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Finance Commission in India has the tough job of balancing inclusiveness for poorer states and incentives for states that perform. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Constitutional BodiesFederalism
Assess the role of NITI Aayog over the past decade in promoting cooperative and competitive federalism.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
FederalismConstitutional Bodies
Delimitation of seats is essential to ensure fair representation and uphold the principles of one vote, one value. Highlighting the challenges posed by misrepresentation in constituencies analyze the ramifications of population-based delimitation in creating federal tension.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismParliament
Dispute redressal is the most important component of cooperative federalism. How does the Interstate Council facilitate the resolution of disputes related to states in India, and what are the challenges associated with this process?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2021–2024
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
The Finance Commission plays a crucial role in balancing fiscal federalism in India. In this context, examine the recommendations given by the 15th Finance Commission.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Constitutional BodiesFederalism
Do you agree with the view that time has come to revisit the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution? Discuss with suitable arguments.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
FederalismCentre-State Relations
'The recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission have enabled the States to improve their fiscal conditions.' Comment.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
Despite the constitutional division of powers, Centre-state disputes have been a perennial feature of Indian democracy. Discuss with examples.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Centre-State RelationsFederalism
"President's Rule is a constitutional mechanism to deal with governance failure, not political convenience." Under what circumstances can President's Rule be imposed in a State? Discuss the constitutional safeguards and judicial verdicts associated with it.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Centre-State RelationsConstitution and Basic Structure