Federalism: It is a form of government in which the sovereign authority of political power is divided between the various units.
Constitutional Entrenchment: It is more difficult to amend a constitution compared to ordinary laws.
‘Coming together’ Federations: Independent States coming together on their own to form a bigger unit, so that by pooling sovereignty and retaining identity they can increase their security. Example: USA, Switzerland and Australia
‘Holding together’ Federations: Where a large country decides to divide its power between the constituent States and the national government. Example: India, Spain and Belgium
Competitive Federalism: States are given freedom and opportunity to compete each other on a healthy basis to attract funds and investments.
Cooperative Federalism:States are given opportunity to be self-reliant, and at the same time achieve a spirit of cooperation with the Union and also in interaction and cooperation with other states.
Marble Cake Federalism: It is a form of federalism where there is mixing of powers, resources, and programs between and among the national, state, and local governments.
Dual Federalism: It refers to the concept that the national government and the state governments have sovereign power in their respective spheres of authority. The distinct realms of authority do not overlap and one should not intrude into the other's authority.
Decentralisation: It is a system in which the basic activities are carried out at various levels and adequate scope is given for all the partners to participate in these activities.
Democratic Decentralization: It refers to the transfer of political power and authority to subnational levels of government. It is also known as political decentralisation
Delegation: It means the grant of authority from a superior to a subordinate which is to be enjoyed not as a right but as a derived concession. It is exercised at the pleasure of the superior.
