Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How is power divided between India’s union government and its state governments?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
India
The Indian flag is also called the tricolor. The top band is saffron in color (signifying courage), the middle band is white (signifying peace and truth), and the bottom band is green (signifying fertility and growth). The wheel in the middle depicts the wheel of the law in the lion capital in Sarnath that Mauryan emperor Ashoka created.
India operates under a system of federalism where legislative authority is divided between the union government and state governments through three lists defined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.12
Legislative Lists
- Union List: The national government holds exclusive authority over matters of national importance, including foreign policy, defense, communications, currency, and railroads.12
- State List: State governments have sole power over subjects such as law and order, public health and sanitation, local government, and agriculture.12
- Concurrent List: Both levels of government may legislate on these subjects, which include education, criminal law, and family planning. However, union law generally takes precedence in cases of conflict.12
Unitary Features
While states possess significant powers, the Constitution grants the union government a more dominant role. The central government can alter state boundaries, appoint state governors, and assume control of a state during emergencies. Furthermore, any legislative matters not specifically listed fall under the exclusive domain of the union government.21