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Basics of Federal System

2 UPSC Prelims MCQs tagged "Basics of Federal System". Free practice with answer keys, explanations, and timed mock tests on Anantam IAS.

  1. Which one of the following in Indian polity is an essential feature that indicates…

    Which one of the following in Indian polity is an essential feature that indicates that it is federal in character?

    1. AThe independence of judiciary is safeguarded.
    2. BThe Union Legislature has elected representatives from constituent units.
    3. CThe Union Cabinet can have elected representatives from regional parties.
    4. DThe Fundamental Rights are enforceable by Courts of Law.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: A

    Option A is correct. In a federal system, power is distributed between the central government and the states. There can be disputes about the division of power or interpretation of the Constitution. An independent judiciary acts as an impartial umpire to settle these disputes and uphold the Constitution. It ensures that both the central government and the states function within their constitutional boundaries.The other options, while relevant to Indian polity, are not exclusive to federal systems

    ![Federal and Unitary Features](https://d39jluplm5thpx.cloudfront.net//Federal_and_Unitary_features_b514db9832.PNG)

    Option B is incorrect. The Union Legislature having elected representatives from constituent units is a common feature in both federal and some unitary states with devolved power.

    Option C is incorrect. The Union Cabinet having elected representatives from regional parties is not a defining characteristic of federalism. Political party affiliation doesn't necessarily determine the federal structure.

    Option D is incorrect. The Fundamental Rights being enforceable by Courts of Law, while essential for a democracy, this feature exists even in some non-federal states.

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

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

    1. AThere is an independent judiciary in India.
    2. BPowers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States.
    3. CThe federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha.
    4. DIt is the result of an agreement among the federating units.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    Indian federalism is characterized by key features such as an independent judiciary, a clear division of powers between the Centre and the States, and unequal representation of States in the Rajya Sabha, all of which are enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

    However, unlike classical federations like the United States, Indian federalism is not the outcome of an agreement among the federating units. The Indian Constitution, which lays down the framework for India's federal structure, was not created through an agreement among the federating units but was adopted by the Constituent Assembly of India.