The true federalism can only be achieved in India by adequately empowering third tier of Indian federal structure. Analyse.

The 73rd and 74th Constitutional amendment gave a constitutional backing to the three tier federal structure of Indian polity.

Empowerment of third tier, key to strengthen federalism:

• Uphold principle of subsidiarity – decision making to be done at lowest level.
• Better development outcomes – due to bottom up planning, assessment and monitoring, reducing urban-rural disparity.
• Avoiding inter and intrastate conflicts due to sufficient autonomy and capability to carry out functions.
• Better governance – participatory, consensus oriented and responsive to local needs.
• Reduced encroachment over the state list and 11th schedule due to transfer of funds, functions, functionaries.
• Reducing over centralisation – schemes and initiative at lowest level due to increase functionality.

Should further be strengthened by:

• Strengthening federalism at state level – less tied grants, concurrence on legislation over concurrent list.
• Empowering local bodies – raising tax net, independent local services, training personnel to improve services, use of technology.

Federalism in India is a case of Sui Generis and should be strengthened through empowering the third time.