How does the Constitution of India describe India?

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) As a Union of States.

The Constitution of India describes India as a "Union of States" in Article 1, which states:
"India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States."

Key Details:

Union of States:

• The term signifies that India is a single entity made up of states.
• It emphasizes the indestructible unity of the nation, meaning states cannot secede from the Union.

Federal Features with Unitary Bias:

• India has a federal system of government with powers divided between the central government and the states.
• However, it is often described as having a unitary bias, especially during emergencies, where the central government gains more power.

Constitutional Structure:

• The Constitution provides autonomy to the states in specific matters, but the Union government holds overriding authority in cases of conflict.

Additional Information:

Comparison with Federations:

• In federations like the USA, the central government and the states derive authority from separate constitutions, and states retain more independence.
• In contrast, Indian states derive authority from the central Constitution, ensuring a stronger Union.

Relevance of "Union of States":

• The term ensures that the Union’s integrity remains intact and that no state has the power to secede.
• This design allows India to address the diverse social, cultural, and linguistic composition of its population while maintaining national unity.