What is the Difference Between State Government and Central Government?

The main difference between state government and central government lies in their jurisdiction and powers. Here are the key differences between the two:

State Government:

• Operates in specific states or regions of a country.
• Has legislative powers to make laws on issues like public order, police, local government, agriculture, etc., as specified by the Constitution's State List subjects.
• Enacts special laws for the state through its legislative bodies.
• Headed by a Chief Minister who is in charge of the administration of state affairs.
• Responsible for the state's level of expenditure and revenue.

Central Government:

• Exercises its powers at the national level.
• Has legislative powers to make laws on matters of national security, foreign affairs, banking, defense, and more, as specified by the Constitution's Union List subjects.
• Enacts laws that apply to the entire country.
• Headed by a Prime Minister or President, who is in charge of the administration of national affairs.
• Responsible for the nation's level of expenditure and revenue.

In a federal system, like the United States, both the federal and state governments have the power to tax, make and enforce laws, charter banks, and borrow money. This division of power between the federal and state governments allows for a balance between national and local interests, ensuring that each level of government can address the specific needs of its citizens.

Comparative Table: State Government vs Central Government

Here is a table comparing the differences between state governments and central governments:

In summary, state governments function at the sub-national level within a nation and possess specific powers, such as the authority to ratify amendments to the U.S. Constitution and oversee elections. Central governments, on the other hand, are responsible for making policies and implementing laws on a national level. Both governments have executive, judicial, and legislative branches, and they share some powers concurrently.