What is cooperative federalism?

• Cooperative federalism means a combination of cooperation and interdependence between the Centre and the States to ensure smooth governance of the country.
• Unlike dual federalism, which viewed two governments as separate and coordinated entities, cooperative federalism viewed two levels of government as mutually complementary parts of a single federal political system. 
• This system is based on the ‘internal give and take’ between the federal government and the regional governments. 

Objectives of Cooperative Federalism

The basic objectives of cooperative federalism are as follows:

• Maintaining the union; 
• Promoting common welfare of all the citizens; and 
• Seeking a joint solution to a common problem. 

Features of Cooperative Federalism

Two key features of cooperative federalism according to NITI Aayog are as follows:

1. A joint focus on the National Development Agenda by the Centre and States and 
2. Advocacy of concerns and issues of States and Union Territories with Central Ministries.

Further Reading:

• Federalism in India
• Union Executive & State Executive 

To read more about the National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog), aspirants can check the linked article.