The Tiered System
India is a vast country, so it is impossible to manage everything from one place. Therefore, the government operates at three distinct levels (or tiers).
The Hierarchy
- National Level (Central/Union Government): Deals with matters concerning the entire country (e.g., defense, foreign affairs).
- State Level (Regional Government): Deals with matters concerning a specific state (e.g., state police, agriculture).
- Local Level: Deals with problems in towns or villages (e.g., local garbage collection, street lights).
Real-World Example: Managing a Disaster
Imagine a heavy rain causes a flood. The response shows how levels interact:
- Minor Flood: Local authorities (municipality/panchayat) handle drainage and relief.
- Severe Flood (District/State-wide): The State Government steps in with rescue teams and funding.
- Massive Calamity: The Central Government sends the Army and massive relief supplies.
Division of Responsibilities
Different levels focus on different tasks to ensure efficiency.
| Area of Work | Central Government | State Government |
|---|---|---|
| Security | Defense, Atomic Energy | Police, Law and Order |
| Economy | Currency, Interstate Commerce | Agriculture, Irrigation |
| Communication | Foreign Affairs, Post & Telegraph | Public Health, Education* |
| Policy | National Policies | Implementation of Central Laws |
*Education is a subject where both Centre and State can make laws, but States manage day-to-day schooling infrastructure.
Note
Mottos of India:
- Government of India: Satyameva Jayate (“Truth alone triumphs”).
- Supreme Court: Yato Dharmastato Jayah (“Where there is dharma, there is victory”).