Question

How are the powers of the state government different from the powers of the Union Government?

Answer 1

A clear division of powers exists between the state government and the union government, as demarcated by the constitution. There are three lists that divide the powers between the two. These are the state list, the union list and the concurrent list.
The powers of the state government are mentioned in the state list. The subjects on which the state government can make laws are maintaining law and order in the state, health, police, transport, land policies, etc.
The powers of the union government are mentioned in the union list. The subjects on which the union goverment can make laws are of national importance. These are railways, currency, external affairs, defence, banking, post and telegraph, etc.
At the time of emergency, laws concerning the state can be made by the central government.
The subjects mentioned in the concurrent list are education, forest, electricity, labour welfare, etc. The union as well as the state government can make laws on these subjects.