REVISITING INDIAN FEDERALISM: CENTRE – STATE TENSIONS IN THE ERA OF THE 'ONE NATION' POLICY FRAMEWORK

Indian federalism is constitutionally designed to balance national unity with regional diversity. In recent years, the growing emphasis on the ‘One Nation’ policy framework has renewed debates on Centre–State relations. Initiatives such as One Nation, One Tax (GST), One Nation, One Ration Card, and centralized governance mechanisms aim to promote uniformity, efficiency, and national integration. However, these measures have also raised concerns about increasing centralization and the gradual dilution of State autonomy. Tensions between the Centre and States have become evident in areas such as fiscal federalism, legislative competence, and administrative control. Issues related to GST compensation, centrally sponsored schemes, and the expanded role of central agencies highlight the challenges faced by States in safeguarding their constitutional powers. This theme critically examines whether the ‘One Nation’ approach strengthens cooperative federalism or shifts India toward a more unitary governance model, emphasizing the need to preserve the federal spirit while pursuing national objectives.