Both cooperative federalism and competitive federalism have their … – Insights IAS

Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.

4. Both cooperative federalism and competitive federalism have their own merits and can be relevant in different contexts within a diverse country like India. The choice between the two depends on the specific challenges, goals, and dynamics of the country. Critically analyse. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: The Hindu ,Insights on India

Why the question:

Cooperative federalism emphasizes collaboration and coordination between the central government and state governments for policy formulation and implementation and the Ministry of Education to negotiate better terms must with the dissenting States, respecting the essence of cooperative federalism.

Key Demand of the question:

To write about which form of federalism competitive or cooperative that suits India better.

Directive word:

Critically analyze When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When critically is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.

Structure of the answer:

Introduction:

Begin by defining cooperative federalism and competitive federalism.

Body:

First, explain the differences between both. Discuss how the spirit of competitive federalism is seen in the various inter-state ranking metric derived such as for ease of business, environmental pollution etc. Discuss how the spirit of cooperation is being enhanced by sharing experiential learnings etc

Next, Discuss the pros and cons of one over the other competitive federalism requires States to reform their programmes and provide goods and services that they can self-fund, disciplines the states, accelerates growth. Discuss the advantages that cooperative federalism offers.

Conclusion:

Conclude by giving a balanced opinion.

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Both cooperative federalism and competitive federalism have their ... - Insights IAS