State Autonomy: A Pillar of True Federalism
In an era where centralization is on the rise globally, the question of state autonomy has never been more relevant. Whether in India, the United States, or other federal systems, the balance of power between central and state governments directly impacts governance, development, and democracy itself. What Is State Autonomy? State autonomy refers to the degree of self-governance a state or province enjoys within a federal structure. It ensures that local governments have the authority, resources, and independence to address region-specific challenges without excessive interference from the central government. Autonomy empowers states to: Frame and implement local policies. Manage financial and administrative resources. Preserve linguistic, cultural, and regional identities. Why It Matters Diverse Needs Require Local Solutions: No two states are the same. Demographics, geography, culture, and economic conditions vary greatly. Autonomy allows tailored solutions...