DMPQ – Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States [paper_3]

• Cooperative Federalism: Emphasize mutual cooperation and interdependence between the Centre and States.
• Hierarchical Federalism: Acknowledge the Centre’s stronger position in specific areas.
• Resource Allocation: Highlight issues related to revenue sharing and grants.
• Legislative Competence: Focus on potential conflicts and overlaps between Union and State lists.
• Role of Governors: Address the controversies surrounding discretionary powers and neutrality.
• Arunachal Pradesh: Discuss its specific developmental needs, strategic significance, and unique challenges.

• Federalism: Division of powers between the Centre and States.
• Cooperative Federalism: Collaboration and mutual support.
• Hierarchical Federalism: Central dominance in certain spheres.
• Article 280: Finance Commission and resource allocation.
• Seventh Schedule: Union, State, and Concurrent Lists.
• Article 356: President’s Rule and Governor’s role.
• Special Category Status: Financial assistance to certain states.

Legislative competence, delineated in the Seventh Schedule, occasionally leads to conflicts. Overlapping jurisdictions and ambiguities create opportunities for disputes, potentially hindering Arunachal Pradesh’s ability to formulate policies tailored to its specific needs in areas such as land management, tribal affairs, and border security. The Centre’s overarching powers, especially in matters of national security and economic policy, can sometimes overshadow state-level initiatives.

The Governor’s role, intended to be impartial, has become a flashpoint of contention. Allegations of bias, especially during government formation and the imposition of President’s Rule (Article 356), erode the spirit of cooperative federalism. In Arunachal Pradesh, given its sensitive location and socio-political dynamics, the Governor’s actions have significant implications for stability and governance. The discretionary powers vested in the Governor require careful exercise to avoid undermining the elected government’s authority. The need for effective Centre-State coordination to address trans-border issues like infrastructure development and infiltration further complicates the picture.