Union List Explained: Identifying Defence as a Key Federal Subject
The Constitution of India divides legislative powers between the Union (Central) government and the State governments. This division is outlined in the Seventh Schedule, which contains three lists: the Union List, the State List, and the Concurrent List.
Understanding the Legislative Lists
- Union List: Subjects under this list are exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Central government. Parliament has the sole power to make laws on these matters.
- State List: Subjects under this list are primarily under the jurisdiction of the State governments. State legislatures can make laws on these matters.
- Concurrent List: Subjects under this list fall under the joint jurisdiction of both the Union and State governments. Both Parliament and State legislatures can make laws, but in case of conflict, the Union law prevails.
Analyzing the Options Provided
The question asks to identify which subject belongs to the Union List. Let's examine each option:
- Police: This subject falls under the State List (Entry 31). Law and order within a state are maintained by the state government.
- Public health: This subject is primarily under the State List (Entry 6). While sanitation and public health are also mentioned in the Concurrent List (Entry 23), the general subject of public health administration rests with the states.
- Education: This subject falls under the Concurrent List (Entries 12 and 13). Both the Central and State governments can legislate on education.
- Defence: This subject exclusively belongs to the Union List (Entry 5). Matters related to the defence of the country, armed forces, and military establishments are solely the responsibility of the Central government.
Table: Subject Placement in Indian Legislative Lists
| Subject | List Type | Relevant Constitutional Entry (Example) |
|---|---|---|
| Police | State List | Entry 31 |
| Public health | State List | Entry 6 |
| Education | Concurrent List | Entries 12, 13 |
| Defence | Union List | Entry 5 |
Conclusion on Union List Inclusion
Based on the constitutional framework of India, Defence is the only subject among the options provided that exclusively falls under the Union List. This signifies its paramount importance for national security and sovereignty, placing it under the direct control of the Central government.
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2. The Commission did record the statements of ryots, sahukars and eye-witnesses.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
