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 02 FEDERALISM

Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between a central

authority and various constituent units within the country. Typically, a federation
consists of two levels of government: one responsible for the nation's common
national interests and the other for the day-to-day administration of provinces or
states. In this system, both levels of government hold independent powers and
authority without subordination to one another.

Federalism exhibits several key features:

1. Multiple Levels of Government: Federal systems have two or more levels of
government, each with distinct roles and responsibilities.
2. Jurisdictional Independence: Different tiers of government govern the same citizens,
but each tier possesses its own legislative, taxation, and administrative authority within
specific areas.
3. Constitutional Specification: The powers and functions of each level of government
are outlined and guaranteed by the country's Constitution.
4. Consensus for Constitutional Changes: Fundamental provisions of the Constitution
cannot be unilaterally altered by one level of government; changes require consent from
both levels.
5. Revenue Sources Defined: Sources of revenue for different levels are specified by the
Constitution.
6. Judicial Oversight: Courts have the authority to interpret the Constitution and mediate
disputes between different levels of government.
Federalism can be categorized into two main types:
1. Coming Together Federation: Independent states voluntarily unite to form a larger
state, with relatively strong state governments compared to the central government.
Examples include the USA, Switzerland, and Australia.
2. Holding Together Federation: A larger country divides itself into sub-units, often with
a stronger central government. State governments may have unequal powers. Examples
include India, Spain, and Belgium.

India exemplifies federalism through several characteristics:

1. Multiple Government Levels: India has three levels of government - the Centre, States,
and local levels.
2. Three Lists: The Constitution divides powers between the Centre and States through
three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
3. Rigid Constitution: Fundamental provisions cannot be unilaterally changed.
4. Financial Autonomy: Revenue sources for both Centre and States are clearly defined.
5. Independent Judiciary: The Supreme Court resolves disputes between different levels
of government.
 L

The Indian Constitution specifies a threefold distribution of legislative powers:

➢ U L : Covers subjects of national importance, and only the Union
Government can make laws on these subjects.
➢ S L : Addresses state and local concerns, with only State Governments
empowered to make laws on listed subjects.
➢ C c L : Encompasses common interests, with both Union and State
Governments able to make laws. In disputes, Union laws prevail.

S c S

Certain Indian states like Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram enjoy
special powers under Article 371 of the Constitution, due to unique historical and social
circumstances.
 c

India embraced decentralization by devolving power to local governments. This shift

empowers local communities, encourages participation, and addresses issues efficiently.

L c S

➢ Rural local government consists of Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila
Parishads.
➢ Urban local government includes municipalities and municipal corporations.
➢ These bodies are controlled by elected representatives.

c c c

Constitutional recognition of local self-government has deepened Indian democracy. It

has increased women's representation and allowed for greater community participation.
However, challenges remain, including irregular elections, infrequent Gram Sabhas,
limited devolution of powers, and inadequate resources for local governments.
 U S S

FILL IN THE BLANKS

1. Federalism is a system of government that divides power between a central authority
and various ___________ units within a nation.
2. In federal systems, there are typically at least ___________ levels of government.
3. The distribution of powers and responsibilities between the central government and
sub-national entities is a defining feature of ___________.
4. In federalism, changes to fundamental provisions of the constitution require consensus
and approval from both the central and ___________ governments.
5. Federal systems often specify the sources of ___________ for each level of
government to ensure financial autonomy.
6. An independent ___________ often plays a crucial role in resolving disputes between
different levels of government.
7. Federal systems can be categorized into two main types: "Coming Together
Federation" and "Holding Together ___________."
8. India serves as an illustrative example of federalism with its federal structure
characterized by three levels of government: the Central Government, State
Governments, and local ___________.
9. In India, legislative powers are divided among the Union List, State List, and
Concurrent ___________.
10. India's Constitution is considered ___________, meaning that fundamental provisions
cannot be unilaterally altered.
11. The Supreme Court of India plays a pivotal role in mediating disputes between
different levels of government, ensuring a fair and just ___________.
12. The Union List covers subjects of national importance, and only the ___________
Government can make laws on these subjects.
13. The State List addresses state and local concerns, with State Governments exclusively
empowered to enact ___________ on these subjects.
14. The Concurrent List comprises subjects of common interest, and both the Union and
State Governments have the authority to create ___________.
15. In cases of conflict between Union and State laws on Concurrent List subjects, Union
laws take ___________.
16. Certain Indian states, such as Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram,
enjoy special powers and provisions under ___________ of the Constitution.
17. These special powers often relate to land rights, cultural preservation, and
___________ opportunities for indigenous communities.
16. Certain Indian states, such as Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram,
enjoy special powers and provisions under ___________ of the Constitution.
17. These special powers often relate to land rights, cultural preservation, and
___________ opportunities for indigenous communities.
18. Decentralization in India involves transferring power from central and state
governments to local ___________ bodies.
19. In rural areas, local self-government operates under the umbrella of ___________
Raj, which includes Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila Parishads.
20. The inclusion of local self-government in the Indian constitutional framework aims to
deepen democracy, empower local communities, and enhance governance at the
___________ level.

ANSWERS
1. constituent 2. two 3. federalism 4. state
5. revenue 6. judiciary 7. Federation 8. governments
9. List 10. rigid 11. resolution 12. Union
13. laws 14. laws 15. precedence 16. Article
17. employment 18. government 19. Panchayati 20. grassroots

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

1. Federalism is a system of government that divides power between:
a) The central government only
b) The central government and foreign nations
c) A central authority and various constituent units
d) The executive and legislative branches

2. In federal systems, how many levels of government are typically present?

a) One b) Two c) Three d) Four

3. What is one of the key features of federalism related to powers and

responsibilities?
a) Concentration of power in one branch
b) Vague distribution of authority
c) Clear division between central and local governments
d) No role for the judiciary
4. Changes to fundamental provisions of the constitution in federalism require the
consent of which levels of government?
a) Only the central government b) Only the state governments
c) Both the central and state governments d) The judiciary

5. Federal systems often specify the sources of revenue for each level of government
to ensure:
a) Concentration of financial power b) Financial dependence on foreign aid
c) Financial autonomy d) Uniform taxation across all states

6. What role does an independent judiciary typically play in federal systems?

a) It enforces laws on behalf of the central government
b) It resolves disputes between different levels of government
c) It controls the military
d) It conducts elections

7. Which term describes the type of federation where independent states come
together to form a larger state?
a) Coming Together Federation b) Holding Together Federation
c) Centralized Federation d) Decentralized Federation

8. In India, how many levels of government are there within its federal structure?
a) One b) Two c) Three d) Four

9. What are the three lists that divide legislative powers between the Union and
State Governments in India called?
a) Priority lists b) Legislative lists c) Union lists d) Grocery lists

10. In India, which list covers subjects of national importance, and only the Union
Government can make laws on these subjects?
a) Union List b) State List c) Concurrent List d) Reserved List
11. What does the term "rigid constitution" mean in the context of federalism?
a) A constitution that is easily changed by one level of government
b) A constitution that cannot be changed at all
c) A constitution that requires consensus for fundamental changes
d) A constitution that only applies to the central government

12. Which institution mediates disputes between different levels of government in

India?
a) Central government b) State governments
c) Local governments d) Supreme Court

13. Which of the following subjects is typically found in the State List in India?
a) Foreign affairs b) Defense c) Police d) Foreign trade

14. What is the name of the provision in the Indian Constitution that grants special
powers to certain states due to unique circumstances?
a) Article 371 b) Article 51 c) Article 365 d) Article 370

15. In India, what are the special powers often related to in states like Assam,
Nagaland, and Mizoram?
a) Cultural preservation b) Economic development
c) Foreign relations d) International trade

16. What does decentralization in India involve?

a) Transferring power from local governments to the central government
b) Transferring power from central and state governments to local government
c) Consolidating all power at the state level
d) Disbanding local governments
17. In rural areas, what is the term for local self-government under the Panchayati
Raj system in India?
a) Gram Panchayat b) State Parliament
c) Union Council d) Panchayat Samiti

18. What is the primary purpose of including local self-government in the Indian
constitutional framework?
a) To centralize power b) To reduce representation
c) To deepen democracy d) To eliminate local governance

19. Which level of government does decentralization aim to empower in India?

a) Central government b) State government
c) Local communities d) International organizations

20. What challenges does decentralization in India face?

a) Regular elections and strong local participation
b) Infrequent elections and minimal citizen involvement
c) Limited devolution of powers and inadequate resources for local governments
d) Excessive funding for local governments and strong central control

ANSWERS
1. c) A central authority and various 2. b) Two
constituent units
3. c) Clear division between central and 4. c) Both the central and state
local governments governments
5. c) Financial autonomy 6. b) It resolves disputes between different
levels of government
7. a) Coming Together Federation 8. c) Three
9. b) Legislative lists 10. a) Union List
11. c) A constitution that requires 12. d) Supreme Court
consensus for fundamental changes
13. c) Police 14. a) Article 371
15. a) Cultural preservation 16. b) Transferring power from central
and state governments to local
government
17. a) Gram Panchayat 18. c) To deepen democracy
19. c) Local communities 20. c) Limited devolution of powers and
inadequate resources for local
governments
 ONE WORD TYPE QUESTIONS
1. What is federalism, and how does it divide power in a country?
2. How many levels of government are typically present in federal systems?
3. What are the key features of federalism mentioned in the text?
4. What is the significance of requiring consensus for constitutional changes in
federal systems?
5. Why is specifying revenue sources important in federalism?
6. What role does an independent judiciary play in federal systems?
7. How are federal systems categorized, and what are the differences between them?
8. How many levels of government exist in India's federal structure, and what are
they?
9. What are the three lists that divide legislative powers in India, and how do they
function?
10. Explain what is meant by a "rigid constitution" in the context of federalism.
11. What is the role of the Supreme Court in mediating disputes in India's federal
system?
12. Provide examples of subjects typically found in the Union List and State List in
India.
13. What is the purpose of Article 371 in the Indian Constitution?
14. What special powers are often associated with states like Assam, Nagaland, and
Mizoram in India?
15. What is decentralization, and how is it practiced in India?
16. What are the components of rural local self-government in India's Panchayati
Raj system?
17. What is the aim of including local self-government in India's constitutional
framework?
18. Which level of government does decentralization aim to empower in India?
19. What challenges does decentralization face in India?
20. How has decentralization impacted democracy in India?
ANSWERS
1. Division 2. Two 3. Features 4. Consensus
5. Autonomy 6. Mediation 7. Categorized 8. Three
9. Union, State, 10. Inflexible 11. Resolution 12. Union, State
Concurrent
13. Special 14. Cultural 15. Devolution 16. Panchayati
17. Deepen 18. Local 19. Challenges 20. Positively
SHORT TYPE QUESTIONS
1. What is federalism, and how does it differ from unitary government?
2. How does federalism address the distribution of powers in a country?
3. Name the two main types of federalism discussed in the text and explain the
differences between them.
4. What are the three levels of government in India's federal structure?
5. What role does the judiciary play in resolving disputes in federal systems?
6. Explain the significance of the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List in
India.
7. What is a "rigid constitution," and why is it important in federalism?
8. How does Article 371 of the Indian Constitution grant special powers to certain
states?
9. What is the primary aim of decentralization in India's constitutional framework?
10. Describe the components of local self-government in rural areas under
Panchayati Raj.
11. How does decentralization impact democracy in India?
12. What challenges does decentralization face in the Indian context?
13. Why is financial autonomy important in federal systems?
14. What are the key features that differentiate federalism from unitary
government?
15. Give an example of a subject typically found in the Union List in India.
16. How does India's federal structure ensure representation at various government
levels?
17. Why is consensus required for fundamental changes in a rigid constitution?
18. Name a country that represents the "Coming Together Federation" type and
one that represents the "Holding Together Federation" type.
19. Explain how linguistic states were established in India and their significance.
20. What is the Gram Sabha, and what functions does it serve in local self-
government?
19. Explain how linguistic states were established in India and their significance.
20. What is the Gram Sabha, and what functions does it serve in local self-
government?

ANSWERS
1. Federalism is a system where power is divided between a central authority and
constituent units; unitary government centralizes power.
2. Federalism addresses power distribution by defining the roles and responsibilities of
central and sub-national governments.
3. "Coming Together Federation" forms when independent states unite; "Holding
Together Federation" divides a large country into sub-units.
4. India's federal structure includes the Central Government, State Governments, and
local governments.
5. The judiciary mediates disputes in federal systems, ensuring fair resolution between
different government levels.
6. The Union List, State List, and Concurrent List divide legislative powers in India.
7. A "rigid constitution" is unalterable without consensus, preserving federal principles.
8. Article 371 grants special powers to certain Indian states based on unique
circumstances.
9. Decentralization in India aims to deepen democracy by empowering local
governments.
10. Rural local self-government includes Gram Panchayats, Panchayat Samitis, and Zila
Parishads under Panchayati Raj.
11. Decentralization positively impacts democracy by enhancing local participation.
12. Decentralization in India faces challenges like irregular elections and limited
devolution.
13. Financial autonomy is crucial in federalism to ensure independence from other
government levels.
14. Federalism features multiple levels of government, while unitary systems have a
single central authority.
15. Defense is an example of a subject found in India's Union List.
16. India's federal structure ensures representation through elections at different
government levels.
17. Consensus is required in a rigid constitution to prevent unilateral changes.
18. USA represents "Coming Together Federation," while India represents "Holding
Together Federation."
19. Linguistic states in India formed to unite people speaking the same language,
promoting cultural cohesion.
19. Linguistic states in India formed to unite people speaking the same language,
promoting cultural cohesion.
20. The Gram Sabha is a village-level council in local self-government, approving
budgets and reviewing performance.

LONG TYPE QUESTION AND ANSWERS

Question 1: Explain the concept of federalism and its significance in governing a
country. Provide examples of countries that practice federalism and briefly describe
their approaches.
Answer 1: Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a
central authority and various constituent units, or states, within a nation. It is significant
as it allows for the distribution of governance responsibilities and powers among different
levels of government, thereby preventing concentration of power at a central level and
ensuring localized administration.
Examples of countries practicing federalism include the United States, where the federal
government and individual states share powers; Switzerland, with a strong emphasis on
cantonal autonomy; and Australia, which has a federal structure with powers divided
between the Commonwealth and states.

Question 2: Describe the characteristics of India's federal system, highlighting the

roles and powers of the Central Government, State Governments, and local self-
government. How does India's Constitution ensure the rigidity of its federal
structure?
Answer 2: India's federal system is characterized by three levels of government: the
Central Government, State Governments, and local self-government. The Central
Government has authority over subjects of national importance, while State Governments
oversee state and local matters. Local self-government operates under the Panchayati Raj
system in rural areas and municipal corporations in urban areas.
India's Constitution ensures the rigidity of its federal structure through several
mechanisms. First, it clearly defines the powers and functions of each level of
government in lists known as the Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. Second, any
changes to fundamental provisions of the Constitution require the consent of both the
Central and State Governments. This dual requirement prevents unilateral alterations to
the federal structure.
Question 3: Discuss the benefits and challenges of decentralization in India. How
has decentralization impacted democracy and local governance in the country?
Provide examples of specific powers devolved to local self-government bodies.
Answer 3: Decentralization in India involves transferring powers from central and state
governments to local self-government bodies, such as Gram Panchayats and
municipalities. The benefits of decentralization include improved local governance, better
responsiveness to local needs, and enhanced citizen participation in decision-making.
However, decentralization in India faces challenges such as irregular elections,
inadequate resources for local governments, and limited devolution of powers. Despite
these challenges, decentralization has positively impacted democracy by empowering
local communities and increasing representation.
Specific powers devolved to local self-government bodies in India include control over
local budgets, infrastructure development, education, and healthcare delivery at the
grassroots level. These powers enable local communities to have a direct say in their
development and governance.
 SOCIAL STUDIES - CLASS 10
FEDERALISM

1 The distinguishing feature of a federal government is:

A) National Government gives some powers to the provincial government.
B) Power is distributed among the legislature, executive and judiciary.
C) Elected officials exercise supreme power in the government.
D) Governmental power is divided between different levels of government.
Answer: D

2 Examine the following pairs that give the level of government in India and the powers of the
government at that Level to make laws on the subjects mentioned against each. Which of the
following pairs is not correctly matched?
A)
State government. State List
B)
Central government Union List
C)
Central and State governments Concurrent List
D)
Local governments Residuary powers
Answer: D

3 The real success of federalism in India can be attributed to the:

(A) Clearly laid out constitutional provisions (B) Democratic politics in our country
(C) Can be both (A) and (B) (D) N of the
Answer: (B)

4 The creation of Linguistic States was the first and a major test for:
(A) Federal government in India (B) Peace in India
(C) Democratic politics in our country (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)
 .

5 New states were created in India to:

(A) Ensure that people who spoke the same language lived in the same state
(B) Ensure proper safety of the people
(C) Ensure proper rule
(D) None of the
Answer: (A)

6 Some states were created not on the basis of language but to recognise differences based on:
(A) Culture (B) Ethnicity (C) Geography (D) All the above
Answer: (D)

7 The official language of our country is:

(A) Hindi (B) Bengali (C) Urdu (D) Punjabi
Answer: (A)

8 The number of languages recognised as Scheduled languages by the Constitution are

(A) 19 (B) 20 (C) 21 (D) 22
Answer: (C)

9 According to the Constitution, the use of English for official purposes was to stop in:
(A) 1948 (B) 1955 (C) 1965 (D) 1975
Answer: (C)

10 Restructuring the Centre-State relations is one more way in which:

(A) Democracy is strengthened (B) Socialism is strengthened
(C) Federalism is strengthened (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)

11 When power is taken away from the Central and State governments and given to local
government, it is called:
(а) Centralisation (B) Decentralisation
(C) ‘Take over’ government (D) None of the above
Answer: (B)
12 A major step towards decentralisation was taken in:
(A) 1991 (B) 1992 (C) 1993 (D) 1994
Answer: (B)

13 At least one-third of all positions are reserved for:

(а) Men (B) Women (C) Children (D) Schedules Tribes
Answer: (B)

14 An independent institution to conduct Panchayat and municipal elections, in each state is called:
(A) State Election Commission (B) Central Election Commission
(C) Local Election Commission (D) none of the above
Answer: (A)

15 Rural local government is popularly known by the name:

(а) Rural raj (B) Local raj (C) Panchayati raj (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)

16 The head of the gram panchayat is called:

(A) Panch (B) Sarpanch (C) Mukhia (D) None of the above
Answer: (B)

17 The political head of the zilla parishad is the:

(A) Sarpanch (B) President (C) Chair person (D) All the above
Answer: (C)

18 One of the key changes made in the constitution of Belgium was to reduce the power of the
central government and to give their powers:
(A) To the state governments (B) To the regional governments
(C) To the gram parishads (D) None of the above
Answer: (D)
19 After 1993, Belgium shifted from a unitary to:
(A) Central government (B) State government
(C) A federal form of government (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)

20 Federalism is a system of government in which power is divided between:

(а) A central authority and various constituent units of the country
(B) A state authority and various constituent units of the country
(C) State government and state government
(D) None of the above
Answer: (а)

21 The central government can pass on orders to the provincial or:

(A) The local government (B) Central government
(C) State government (D) None of the above
Answer: (A)

22 In a federal system, the central government:

(A) Can order the state government to take relevant action
(B) Cannot order the state government to take relevant action
(C) Can order the state of take relevant action on certain occasions
(D) None of the above
Answer: (B)

23 The jurisdictions of the respective levels or tiers of government:

(A) Are not specified in the constitution (B) Are specified in the constitution
(C) Are written in the constitution (D) All the above
Answer: (B)

24 The ‘coming together’ federations is found in:

(A) USA, China and Russia (B) India, Pakistan and Bangladesh
(C) USA, Switzerland and Australia (D) Australia, Russia and Germany
Answer: (C)
25 The ‘holding together’ federation is found in:
(A) India, Spain and Belgium (B) USA, China and Russia
(C) Australia, Russia and Germany (D) none of the above
Answer: (A)

26 Defence of the country, foreign affairs, banking, currency are subjects inducted in the:
(а) State list (B) Concurrent list (C) Union list (D) none of the above
Answer: (C)

27 Police, trade, commerce, agriculture, etc. are subjects included in the:

(A) State list (B) Concurrent list (C) Union list (D) None of the above
Answer: (A)

28 Education, forest, trade unions, marriage, etc. are subjects included in the :
(A) State list (B) Concurrent list (C) Union list (D) none of the above
Answer: (B)

29 Computer software is a:
(A) Local subject (B) Important subject (C) Residuary subject (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)

30 Many provisions of the Indian Constitution are not applicable to the state of:
(A) Jammu and Kashmir (B) Punjab (C) Haryana (D) Bihar
Answer: (а)

31 Areas, like Chandigarh, or Lakshadweep or the capital city of Delhi, are called:
(а) State Territories (B) Central Territories(C) Union Territories (D) None of the above
Answer: (C)
32 In case of any dispute about the division of powers:
(а) The High Courts and District Courts make a decision
(B) The High Courts make a decision
(C) The Supreme Court makes a decision
(D) The High Court and the Supreme Court make a decision
Answer: (D)

33. A Mayor is;

(A) Elected chairman of a municipal corporation
(B) Appointed by the chief minister to look after municipal corporation
(C) A representative of the Central government
(D) Appointed by the state government
Answer : a

34 The System of Panchayati Raj involves

(A) The village, block and district levels (B) The village, and state levels
(C) The village district and state levels (D) The village, state and Union levels
Answer: a

35. In case of a clash between the laws made by the centre and a state on a subject in the concurrent
list:
(A) the state law prevails. (B) the central law prevails.
(C) both the laws prevail within their respective jurisdictions.
(D) the Supreme Court has to intervene to decide.
Answer: b

36. Which of the following subjects is not included in the state list?
(A) Law and order (B) National defence
(C) Education (D) Agriculture
Answer: b
37. In India’s federal system, the state governments have the power to legislate on all those subjects
which are included in the:
(A) Union list (B) State list (C) Concurrent list (D) Residuary subjects
Answer: b

38. The Constitution of India

(A) divided powers between centre and states in three lists.
(B) divided powers between centre and states in two lists.
(C) listed the powers of the states and left the undefined powers to the state.
(D) Specified the pow ers of the states and left the residuary powers with the centre.
Answer: a

39. Which of the following government has two or more levels?

(A) Community Government (B) Coalition Government
(C) Federal Government (D) Unitary Government
Answer: c

40. Which of the following countries is an example of “coming together federation”?

(A) U.S.A (B) India (C) Spain (D) Belgium
Answer: a

41. Here are three reactions to the language policy followed in India. Which of the following holds
true in the case of India?
(A) The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.
(B) Language based states have divided us by making everyone conscious of their language.
(C) The language policy has only helped to consolidate the dominance of English over all other
languages.
Answer: a
42. Consider the following statements on the practice of federalism in India. Identify those which
hold true for decentralisation after 1992.
A. Local governments did not have any power or resources of their own.
B. It became constitutionally mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies.
C. The state governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government
bodies.
D. No seats are reserved in the elected bodies for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and other
backward classes.
(A) B and C (B) A and C (C) A and D (D) B and D
Answer: a

43. In a ‘Holding together federation’:

A. A large country divides its power between constituent states and the national government.
B. The Central government tends to be more powerful vis-a-vis the States.
C. All the constituent states usually have equal powers.
D. Constituent states have unequal powers.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) A, B, C and D (B) A and D (C) B and C (D) A, B and D
Answer: d

44. Which among the following are examples of ‘Coming together federations’?
(A) India, Spain and Belgium (B) India, USA and Spain
(C) USA, Switzerland and Australia (D) Belgium and Sri Lanka
Answer: c

45. The Union List includes subjects such as:

(A) Education, forests, trade unions, marriages, adoption and succession.
(B) Police, trade, commerce, agriculture and irrigation.
(C) Residuary subjects like computer software.
(D) Defence, foreign affairs, banking, currency, communications.
Answer: d
46. The system of Panchayati Raj involves:
(A) Village, State and Union levels (B) Village, District and State levels
(C) Village and State levels (D) Village, Block and District levels
Answer: d

47. Which one of the following States in India has its own Constitution?
(A) Uttarakhand (B) Madhya Pradesh (C) J & K (D) Nagaland
Answer: c

48. Match the following:

Column A Column B
(A) Union Territory (i) Decision-making body for the entire village
(B) Local self (ii) An alliance of more than government two parties
(C) Coalition (iii) Representatives’ government body at the district level
(D) Zila Parishad (iv) Area which is run by the Union / Central government
(A) A – (ii), B – (iii), C – (iv) and D – (i) (B) A – (iv), B – (i), C – (iii) and D – (ii)
(C) A – (iv), B – (i), C – (ii) and D – (iii) (D) A – (iv), B – (iii), C – (ii) and D – (i)
Answer: c

49 Which country does not have federal system?

(A) Belgium (B) India (C) Myanmar (D) The United States

50 Which of the following countries, has a Unitary form of government?

(A) Sri Lanka (B) Belgium (C) India (D) Argentina.
Answer: A

51 Which is the most diverse country in the world according to language?

(A) U.S.A. (B) Brazil (B) India (C) Australia.
Answer: C
52 Which of the following is not in the category of ‘schduled languages’?
(A) Punjabi (B) Sindhi (C) Awadhi (D) Nepali
Answer: C

53 List the countries which do not follow federalism.

(A) Spain, Sweden, Britain
(B) India, Belgium, Canada and Australia
(C) The USA, Spain, Holland
(D) China, Sri Lanka, France, United Kingdom, Japan, Italy and North Korea
Answer: D

54 The state in India that enjoys special power is......... .

(A) Mizoram (B) Marupur (C) Madhya Pradesh (D) Jammu &
Kashmir
Answer: D

55 Which of the following is not a subject of the Union List?

(A) Foreign Affairs (B) Currency (C) Banking (D) Police.
Answer: D

56 Who is the political head of Gram Panchayat?

(A) Sarpanch (B) Panch (C) Mayor (D) Chairperson.
Answer: A

57 The System of Panchayati Raj involves

(A) The village, block and district levels (B) The village, and state levels
(C) The village district and state levels (D) The village, state and Union levels
Answer: A
58 Who is the political head of the Municipality and Gram Panchyat?
(A) Mayor and Sarpanch (B) Deputy Collector and Mayor
(C) Sarpanch and Deputy Collector (D) Mayor an Chief Minister
Answer: A

59. Match List I with List II and select the reel correct answer using the codes given below the lists:
List I List II
1. Union of India A. Prime Minister
2. State B Sarpanch
3. Municipal Corporation C. Governor
4. Gram Panchayat D. Mayor
A) 1 - D, 2 - A, 3 - B, 4-C B) 1 - B, 2 - C, 3 - D, 4-A
C) 1 - A, 2 - C, 3 - D, 4 - B, D) 1 - C, 2 - D, 3 - A, 4–B
Answer : c

60. Consider the following two statements.

(i) In a federation the powers of the federal and provincial governments are clearly democrated.
(ii) India is a federation because the powers of the Union and state governments are specified in
the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on their respective subjects.
(iii) Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces.
(iv) India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been devolved to the
local government bodies. Which of the statements given above are correct?
A) (i), (ii), (iii) B) (i), (iii), (iv) C) (i), (ii) only D) (ii), (iii) only
Answer : c

61. Consider the statement: "Coming together federation" involves:

(i) The central government to become more powerful.
(ii) Independent states coming together on their own to form bigger unit.
(iii) Constituent units have unequal powers.
(iv) Constituent states have equal powers.
Which of the statements given above is correct
A) (i), (ii) and (iv) B) (i), (ii) only C) (ii) and (iv) only D) (i), (iii) and (iv).
Answer : c
62. The Constitution of India
A) Divided powers between centre and states in three lists.
B) Divided powers between centre and states in two lists.
C) Listed the powers of the states and left the undefined powers to the state.
D) Specified the powers of the states and left the residuary powers with the centre.
Answer : a

63. In case of a clash between the laws made by the centre and a state on a subject in the concurrent
list.
A) The state law prevails
B) The central law prevails
C) Both the laws prevail within their respective jurisdictions
D) The Supreme Court has to intervene to decide.
Answer : b

64. The System of Panchayati Raj involves

A) The village, block and district levels. B) The village, and state levels
C) The village district and state levels D) The village, state and Union levels.
Answer : a

65. The concept of decentralization signifies

A) The three tier government at the urban level.
B) The two tier government at only rural level
C) Power taken away from central and state government and given to local government at both
the urban and rural levels.
D) Autonomy given to the state government.
Answer : c

66. …………. is a system of government in which the power is divided between a central authority
and various constituent units of the country?
(A) Dictatorship (B) Unitary system (C) Monarchy (D) Federalism
Answer : d
67. How many levels of government does a federation usually have?
(A) Single (B) Two (C) Three (D) Multiple
Answer : b

68. How many countries in the world have a federal political system?
(A) 42 (B) 33 (C) 25 (D) 18
Answer : c

69. In a federal system, the central government ………. order the state government to do something?
(A) Can (B) Cannot (C) May (D) A & C
Answer : b

70. State government has powers of its own for which……..

(A) It is answerable to Central government
(B) It is not answerable to Central government
(C) It is answerable to the people
(D) B & C
Answer : d

71. Different tiers of government govern the same citizens, but each tier has its own ___ in specific
matters.
(A) Administration (B) Jurisdiction (C) Execution (D) Policies
Answer : b

72. Can the fundamental provisions of the constitution be unilaterally changed by one level of
government in federalism?
(A) Yes (B) No (C) May be in special provisions (D) A & C
Answer : B

73. When independent states come together on their own to form a bigger unit, so that by pooling
sovereignty and retaining identity they can increase their security. This type of ‘coming together’
federations are practiced by which countries?
(A) Switzerland & Canada (B) USA and Britain
(C) USA, Australia and Switzerland (D) Britain, Canada, USA
Answer : c
74. Where a large country decides to divide its power between the constituent states and the national
government. It is called ‘holding together’ federations. Which countries practice this system?
(A) India, Pakistan, Italy (B) India, Spain, Belgium
(C) Canada, Italy, Germany (D) Australia, Canada, USA
Answer : b

75. Which one comes under the Union List in India?

(A) Police (B) Agriculture (C) Banking (D) Trade
Answer : c

76. Which one comes under the State List in India?

(A) Defence (B) Currency (C) Communications (D) Police
Answer : d

77. On which given subject can both the Union as well as the State Governments make laws?
(A) Currency (B) Defence (C) Trade Unions (D) Agriculture
Answer : c

78. What is meant by residuary subjects?

(A) Subjects under union list (B) Subjects under state list
(C) Subject under both state and union list (D) Subjects which are not under any list
Answer : d

79. Give an example of a subject under the residuary list?

(A) Currency (B) Irrigation (C) Computer software (D) Commerce
Answer : c

80. States such as Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram enjoy special powers under
certain provisions of the Constitution of India (Article 371), under which context do they get
these provisions?
(A) Because of trade and commerce (B) Protection of land rights of indigenous people
(C) Special provisions for agriculture (D) For Defence purposes
Answer : b
81. Give one feature of Union territories?
(A) They have powers of a state
(B) They enjoy independent power
(C) The Central Government has special powers in running these areas.
(D) These are areas which are too small to become an independent State but which can be merged
with any of the existing States
Answer : c

82. Sharing of power between the Union Government and the State governments is basic to the
structure of the Constitution. The Parliament cannot on its own change this arrangement. Any
change to it has to be first passed by both the Houses of Parliament with at least ……….
majority?
(A) 50 % (B) Three- fourth (C) Two- third (D) 25%
Answer : c
83. The creation of ………….. was the first and a major test for democratic politics in our country
(A) States according to religion (B) States according to culture
(C) Linguistic states (D) States according to topography
Answer : c

84. On which basis were states like Nagaland, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand created?
(A) On the basis of language (B) On the basis of culture, ethnicity
(C) On the basis of religion (D) On the basis of commerce and trade
Answer : b

85. Hindi is the mother tongue of only about …... percent of Indians?
(A) 60% (B) 30% (C) 40% (D) 50%
Answer : c

86. Besides Hindi, there are __ other languages recognized as Scheduled Languages by the
Constitution?
(A) 21 (B) 23 (C) 27 (D) 24
Answer : a

87. When was the beginning of the era of Coalition Governments at the Centre which led to a new
culture of power sharing and respect for the autonomy of State Governments?
(A) 1980s (B) 1990s (C) 1870s (D) 2000 onward
Answer : b
88. Census of India held in 2011, recorded more than ……...distinct languages which people
mentioned as their mother tongues?
(A) 200 (B) 500 (C) 1200 (D) 1300
Answer : d

89. In the data for Scheduled Languages of India which is the second highest in proportion of
speakers (%) after Hindi?
(A) Telugu (B) Tamil (C) Bengali (D) Urdu
Answer : c
90. As for English, only ……….per cent Indians recorded it as their mother tongue?
(A) 20% (B) 5% (C) 0.5 % (D) 0.02%
Answer : d

91. The distinguishing feature of a federal government is:

(A) National government gives some powers to the provincial governments.
(B) Power is distributed among the legislature, executive and judiciary.
(C) Elected officials exercise supreme power in the government.
(D) Governmental power is divided between different levels of government.
Answer : b

92. Consider the following two statements.

1. In a federation the powers of the federal and provincial governments are clearly demarcate(D)
2. India is a federation because the powers of the Union and State Governments are specified in
the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on their respective subjects.
3. Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces.
4. India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been devolved to the
local government bodies.
(A) 1, 2 and 3 (B) 1, 3 and 4 (C) 1 and 2 only (D) 2 and 3 only
Answer : c

93. Federal power sharing in India needs another tier of government below that of the State
governments, it is called………..
(A) State offices (B) District government
(C) Local government (D) Tehsils
Answer : c
94. When was the constitution amended to make the third-tier of democracy more powerful and
effective?
(A) 1990 (B) 1992 (C) 1989 (D) 1993
Answer : b

95. In the local government elections at least ……... of all positions are reserved for women?
(A) One – third (B) Two- third (C) 50% (D) 25%
Answer : a

96. How many countries in the world have adopted form of government?
(A) 92 (B) 26 (C) 56 (D) 25
Answer : d

97. Which of these languages is not included in the list of scheduled languages?
(A) Marati (B) Bodo (C) Nepali (D) Tulu
Answer : d

98. The Union list in India consists of ___ subjects.

(A) 98 (B) 21 (C) 97 (D) 88
Answer : c

99. the highest tier of Panchayati Raj is the:

(A) Zilla Parishad (B) Block Samiti (C) Municipality (D) Village Panchayat
Answer : a

100. Punjab was earlier a part of which of these provinces?

(A) Rajputana (B) United Provinces
(C) Central provinces (D) North-West Frontier Province
Answer : d