Reaffirm cooperative federalism

The Hindu     13th May 2020     Save    
QEP Pocket Notes

Context: Current handling of the pandemic has resulted into federal strains. Thus , there is a need to relook at the principles  of cooperative federalism.

Federalism in Indian context

  • Uniquely suited to India: Although different federations like America, Australia etc were studied, constitutional makers employed “pick and choose policy”.
  • Cooperative federalism: essentially defined by administrative cooperation between Centre and States, and partial dependence of States on Centre in financial devolution. 
  • This doesn’t result in weaker states vis a vis Centre but represents that progress of nation rests on cooperation between the two.

Challenges in Centre-State cooperation

  • Zone classification: States have demanded more autonomy is making such classification 
  • Avoiding consultation: “National Planunder Section 11 of DMA mandates state consultation before formulation
  • Unequal treatment: While donations under PM-CARES can avail CSR exemption, the same has not been provided for CM Relief Fund which disincentivize  State’s relief efforts.
  • States’ dried up resources because of liquor ban, negligible sales of petrol, low GST collections have made states dependent on Centre.

Way forward

  • As the states act as first responders, supplying them with adequate finds is prerequisite. This requires Centre to view states as equals instead of increasing dependencies.
QEP Pocket Notes