Question

What is the Union List in the Constitution of India?

Hint:

The Union List gives exclusive legislative power to the central government over national issues like defense, foreign affairs, and finance, ensuring uniform laws across the country.

Answer 1

The Union List is a list of subjects on which only the central government (the Union) has the authority to legislate, as per the Constitution of India. It is one of the three lists in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, the other two being the State List and the Concurrent List.
Step 1: The Constitution’s Seventh Schedule.
The Seventh Schedule divides the subjects of legislation into three distinct lists:
- Union List: Subjects on which only the central government can make laws.
- State List: Subjects on which only state governments can legislate.
- Concurrent List: Subjects on which both the central and state governments can legislate.
Step 2: Subjects under the Union List.
The Union List contains matters of national importance that require uniform laws throughout the country. Some of the subjects under the Union List include:
- Defence and armed forces.
- Foreign affairs and international treaties.
- Banking and financial institutions.
- Communications, such as postal services and telegraphs.
- Atomic energy and major industries.
Step 3: Significance of the Union List.
The Union List ensures that the central government has the power to address issues that are of national importance or require uniformity across the nation. It helps maintain national unity and facilitates the central government’s control over critical areas like defense, foreign relations, and economic policies.