Centre-State Relations in the Context Of Arunachal Pradesh Cooperation and Tensions
Keywords:
Centre–State relations, cooperative federalism, Arunachal Pradesh, asymmetrical federalism, border governance, fiscal dependencyAbstract
This study examines Centre–State relations in the context of Arunachal Pradesh by analysing the patterns of cooperation and tension within India’s asymmetrical federal framework. It explores how constitutional design, fiscal dependency, strategic imperatives and political dynamics collectively shape intergovernmental relations between the Union and the state government. Using a doctrinal and analytical methodology based on recent scholarly literature, judicial developments and secondary fiscal data, the research highlights the central role of financial transfers, security coordination and centrally sponsored schemes in fostering cooperative governance. At the same time, it identifies recurring tensions arising from gubernatorial discretion, political instability and constrained policy autonomy at the state level. The findings indicate that federal interaction in Arunachal Pradesh is characterised by a pragmatic balance between national priorities and regional aspirations, demonstrating how cooperative federalism operates under conditions of geopolitical sensitivity and developmental dependence.
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