How has asymmetric federalism helped India accommodate its diverse regional needs? Discuss with suitable examples.

Asymmetric federalism is the difference in power allocation to different federal units of country. For example: States, Union Territories (A 239); Tribal areas (6th schedule); Special provisions include Article 371A, B, et. Asymmetric federalism => accommodation of diverse needs. (1) Strategic need => formation of UTs (Article 239, 2 39A, 239AA) like Andaman and Nicobar, Ladakh, Delhi, etc. (2) Tribal culture protection => Schedule 5 => Schedule areas (A 242), Schedule 6 => Tribal areas (Art 244(2)). (3) Special needs of Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra, Sikkim, etc under Article 371A, B, C, etc. Governor have special powers. (4) Art.282: Special groups for the development of ST. (5) Unitary federalism: with strong centre to protect unity and integrity of India. Article 246 => dimimited (100 subjects), state list (66 subjects) concurrent list (as to subjects). Prof Granville Austin called Indian Constitution a social document which intends to revolutionise society as per its needs.