In Federalism Class 10, we begin exploring how a democratic country manages power across different levels of government. After learning about power sharing in the previous chapter — Power Sharing Class 10 — this chapter takes us a step further by introducing the concept of federalism. Through this topic, you’ll understand how unity and diversity go hand in hand in a large country like India. Let’s go through it in a simple, exam-focused way with key features, objectives, and types of federations.
Class 10 – Political Science
Chapter 2: Federalism – Part 1
What is Federalism?
Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country.
A federation usually has two levels of government:
- Central government
- State government
Both levels enjoy their power independent of each other.
Unitary System
In a unitary system, either there is only one level of government, or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government. The central government can pass orders to the provincial or local governments.
In a federal system, the central government cannot order the state government. The state government has powers of its own, and it is not answerable to the central government.
Both levels are separately answerable to the people.
Key Features of Federalism
- Two or more levels of government
- Each tier has its own jurisdiction in legislation, taxation, and administration
- Jurisdiction is specified in the Constitution
- The authority of each tier is constitutionally guaranteed
- Fundamental provisions of the Constitution cannot be unilaterally changed (i.e., not by only one level of government)
- The Constitution can be amended only with the consent of both levels
- The Constitution is interpreted by the courts
- The Supreme Court acts as an umpire in case of disputes
- Sources of revenue are clearly specified for financial independence
Objectives of Federal System
- To safeguard and promote national unity
- To accommodate regional diversity
An Ideal Federal System has Two Aspects:
- Mutual trust
- Agreement to live together
Types of Federations
- Coming Together Federation:
- Independent states come together to form a bigger unit
- They pool their sovereignty but retain their identity
- All units have equal power
- Examples – USA, Australia, Switzerland
- Holding Together Federation:
- A large country divides its power between the central and state governments
- The central government tends to be more powerful
- Some units may have special powers and unequal status
- Examples – India, Spain, Belgium
Also explore our notes on Unification of Germany, Italy, and Britain – Class 10 to build deeper understanding. Now, go through the following FAQs to quickly revise the key concepts of federalism.
Q1. What is federalism?
Answer: Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country.
Q2. How many levels of government are there in a federation?
Answer: There are two or more levels – the central government and the state government.
Q3. In which system is the central government more powerful: federal or unitary?
Answer: In the unitary system, the central government is more powerful.
Q4. Can the central government order the state government in a federal system?
Answer: No, the central government cannot order the state government in a federal
Q5. Who is the final authority to interpret the Constitution in a federal country like India?
Answer: The Supreme Court.
Q6. What guarantees the powers of each level of government in federalism?
Answer: The Constitution guarantees the powers of each level of government.
Q7. What is the main objective of federalism?
Answer: To promote national unity while accommodating regional diversity.
Q8. Name any one country that follows the ‘Coming Together’ federation model.
Answer: The United States of America.
Q9. Name any one country that follows the ‘Holding Together’ federation model.
Answer: India.
Q10. Which type of federation gives equal power to all units?
Answer: Coming Together Federation.
Let’s wind it up
In this part, we explored the foundational concept of federalism in a democracy—its structure, objectives, and the types of federations practiced across the world. Understanding how power is shared helps students see how unity and diversity can go hand in hand in a country like India. For more clear and exam-oriented notes across all chapters of Class 10 Social Science, keep visiting CBSE Notes Hub.