Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (approx. 100-150 words) Define Asymmetric Federalism: Start by defining what asymmetric federalism means—where different states or regions within a federation are granted unequal powers, privileges, or autonomy based on their unique conditions or historical contexts. Contextualize the ...
Model Answer Analysis of the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act on Welfare Redefinition in India Positive Impacts: Promoting Inclusive Development: The amendment widens welfare measures to include economically weaker sections, fostering inclusive growth (Source: Indian Constitution). Addressing EconRead more
Model Answer
Analysis of the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act on Welfare Redefinition in India
Positive Impacts:
- Promoting Inclusive Development: The amendment widens welfare measures to include economically weaker sections, fostering inclusive growth (Source: Indian Constitution).
- Addressing Economic Inequalities: It transitions reservations beyond caste, tackling economic disparities effectively (Source: Indian Judiciary).
- Emerging Criteria: Introducing socio-economic factors like poverty and regional backwardness broadens discussions on deprivation (Source: Legal Proceedings).
- Elevating the Poor in General Category: EWS reservations offer economic justice and expand affirmative action perspectives (Source: Legal Precedents).
- Fulfilling Constitutional Mandate: Aligns with Article 46, emphasizing weaker section upliftment (Source: Indian Constitution).
Concerns:
- Social Upliftment vs. Poverty Alleviation: Reservations might overlook poverty alleviation alternatives (Source: Social Policy Experts).
- Equality Violation: Excluding OBCs and SC/STs challenges equal opportunity principles (Source: Social Justice Observers).
- Income Criteria Issues: The Rs. 8 lakh annual income limit raises concerns over inclusivity (Source: Socio-Economic Analysts).
- Artificial Criteria: Solely economic grounds for discrimination fail to address caste-based biases (Source: Academic Discourse).
In redefining welfare, precise targeting and evolving frameworks are vital for effectively aiding the most deserving. Continuous refinement is imperative to ensure the policy’s inclusivity and relevance in combating India’s persistent challenges of deprivation and discrimination.
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Model Answer Necessity of Asymmetry in India's Federalism India's federalism is inherently asymmetric, characterized by unequal power distribution and distinct political, administrative, and fiscal relations between the center and states. While asymmetric federalism has been a fundamental feature ofRead more
Model Answer
Necessity of Asymmetry in India’s Federalism
India’s federalism is inherently asymmetric, characterized by unequal power distribution and distinct political, administrative, and fiscal relations between the center and states. While asymmetric federalism has been a fundamental feature of India’s political structure, its necessity remains a subject of debate.
1. Historical Context and Integration
Asymmetric federalism was crucial for India’s integration after independence. The country emerged from British rule, with regions directly under British governance and 216 princely states, each with varying degrees of autonomy. Special provisions, like Article 370 for Jammu and Kashmir, were designed to integrate these regions into the Union. This was essential in ensuring national unity and preventing fragmentation (Source: Constitution of India, Article 370).
2. Ensuring National Security and Unity
Asymmetric arrangements were also key to ensuring national security and political stability. For example, the Sixth Schedule provided autonomy to tribal areas in the northeastern states, transforming erstwhile insurgents into important stakeholders within the Indian polity. This helped address regional security concerns while maintaining unity in a diverse nation (Source: Constitution of India, Sixth Schedule).
3. Recognition of Diversity
India’s diversity, in terms of languages, cultures, and regional aspirations, makes asymmetric federalism necessary to ensure that local contexts are considered in governance. Special provisions under Article 371 grant states like Nagaland and Andhra Pradesh specific privileges based on their distinct needs, ensuring policies align with local aspirations (Source: Constitution of India, Article 371).
4. Economic and Administrative Factors
India’s diverse states face varying economic challenges. Larger states with bigger populations need more fiscal resources for public service delivery. This makes asymmetric fiscal federalism essential, as mechanisms like the Finance Commission help allocate resources more equitably (Source: Finance Commission Reports).
Conclusion
Despite criticisms of resource misallocation and regional disparities, asymmetric federalism is essential for India to accommodate its diverse needs, ensure national unity, and provide equitable governance. It remains a necessary feature to manage the country’s complexity, particularly in promoting cooperative federalism where all groups can have a voice.
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