2. Federalism in India: a. Distribution of legislative powers between the center and states

In India, the distribution of legislative powers between the central government (Union) and the state governments is outlined in the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution. The Seventh Schedule divides legislative powers into three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List. 

1. Union List: The Union List consists of subjects on which only the central government can make laws. It includes matters of national importance, such as defense, foreign affairs, atomic energy, banking, currency, communication, and citizenship. Currently, there are 100 subjects listed under the Union List.

2. State List: The State List consists of subjects on which only the state governments can make laws. It includes matters of local or regional importance, such as police, public order, health, agriculture, land, public health, and local government. Currently, there are 61 subjects listed under the State List.

3. Concurrent List: The Concurrent List consists of subjects on which both the central and state governments can make laws. It includes subjects of shared interest and importance, such as criminal law, marriage and divorce, bankruptcy and insolvency, education, and adoption. Currently, there are 52 subjects listed under the Concurrent List.

In case of a conflict between a central law and a state law on a concurrent subject, the central law prevails. However, if a state law on a concurrent subject is inconsistent with a central law that has received the President's assent, the state law may prevail in that particular state.

It is important to note that residuary powers, which are matters not mentioned in any of the three lists, are vested with the central government. The central government has the authority to legislate on these matters unless specifically provided otherwise.

The distribution of legislative powers between the center and the states ensures a balance of power and allows for effective governance. It allows the central government to focus on matters of national importance while granting the state governments the autonomy to address local and regional issues. The distribution of powers aims to foster cooperative federalism and accommodate the diverse needs and interests of different regions within the country.

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