From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged. Explain.
A heavily repeated GS2 theme with links to GS1 and GS3: centralising tendencies, cooperative and competitive federalism, recent Centre–State changes, CBI consent, federal supremacy, and accommodating diversity.
What to cover
Seventh Schedule and residuary powers
Cooperative federalism: NITI Aayog, GST Council
Competitive and confrontational federalism examples
Doctrines: federal supremacy, harmonious construction
CBI consent issue
Disaster Management Act and Epidemic Act during COVID
Writing the answer
Use recent examples; end with trust-building measures
These notes are for the whole theme, built from all 8 of its PYQs. UPSC does not publish model answers.