The cooperative nature of Indian federalism is being increasingly challenged by emerging differences in Centre-State relations. Discuss. What steps can be taken to strengthen the cooperative spirit of Indian federalism?

Article 1 describes India as a 'Union of States' but India has a federal structure, as affirmed by the courts to be a part of basic structure doctrine. COOPERATIVE NATURE (1) Sharing of resources of states eg water sharing of rivers by upper & lower riparian states. (2) Inter-state councils for deliberations. (3) GST Council vats as forum for cooperative federalism & fiscal federalism. (4) free movement of any citizen throughout India & free markets, etc

CHALLENGES (1) Fiscal Issues - Article 293 does not allow states to borrow without Centre's permission if they owe to Centre. (2) Distribution of tax - not done which forms ~VST of taxes collected by Centre, states relying only on GST [S&ST + compensation]. (3) Friction with states ruled by opposition parties eg Punjab, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Kerala - facing issues with Governor. (4) Use of central agencies [eg CBI] to target states ruled by opposition eg West Bengal withdrawal general consent for CBI. (5) Inter-state disputes not solved yet eg Cauvery dispute.

Steps to Take (1) Allow fiscally prudent states to borrow from market as exception under Article 293. (2) Utilize Inter-state Councils to promote discussion of issues between states & promote economic collaborations between them. (3) Implement recommendations of Sarkaria & Panchayati Commission to resolve Governance issues. (4) GST Compensation should be disbursed to ensure manufacturing states are not at a loss. (5) Independent usage of central agencies by granting autonomy. (6) Population control measures so that goods are allocated as per "Viksat Bharat" vision. Hence, cooperative federalism is leverage of federal provisions in India needed for economic growth & 'Viksat Bharat' vision.