Question

The Federal system of India is influenced by which of the following?

• A. Canada
• B. United States of America
• C. Ireland
• D. Britain

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the country whose constitution was the primary influence for the federal features of the Indian Constitution.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The framers of the Indian Constitution borrowed features from various constitutions around the world. While India is a federal country, its federalism has a strong unitary bias. Let's compare the influences:
- United States of America: The US has a classic federal model with a clear division of power and strong autonomy for the states. The Indian model differs as the central government holds more power.
- Britain: Britain has a unitary system of government, not a federal one.
- Canada: The Canadian constitution provides for a federal structure with a strong central government. Key features borrowed by India from Canada include:
- The scheme of federation with a strong centre.
- The distribution of powers between the centre and the states, and placing residuary powers with the centre.
- The provision for the appointment of state governors by the centre.
This Canadian model, often described as a 'federation with a centralizing tendency', closely matches the Indian system. The use of the word 'Union' in Article 1 of the Indian Constitution instead of 'Federation' is also inspired by the Canadian model.
Step 3: Final Answer
The federal system of India, particularly its characteristic of having a strong central government, is most significantly influenced by the Constitution of Canada.