Key Terms & Concepts — UPSC Mains
Devolution
GS3
GS2
"The transfer of power, authority, or resources from a central government to lower levels of government or local bodies"
Definition
The transfer of power, authority, or resources from a central government to lower levels of government or local bodies
⭐ Significance for UPSC
Core UPSC GS-2 term with two specific meanings: 1) Fiscal devolution, Finance Commission's vertical (Union to states) and horizontal (among states) distribution; 2) Political devolution, 73rd/74th Amendments transferring powers to Panchayati Raj and urban local bodies. Always specify which type you mean. Contrasts with 'delegation' (temporary, revocable) since devolution implies a structural transfer.
Example / Context
The 16th Finance Commission recommended 41% devolution of Union tax revenues to states for the 2026-31 award period.
Mains GS Relevance
GS Paper 3
Economy, Environment, S&T, Security
GS Paper 2
Polity, Governance, IR, Social Justice
📰 Related Articles
9 Aug
Current Affairs Today, August 9, 2026
9 Aug
Parliament Passes the MSMED Overhaul:...
9 Aug
Beyond E-Filing: What the e-Courts Phase III...
✍️ Related Editorials
A new key term every day
Key Term of the Day at 1pm, plus daily current affairs and free PDFs
Join Channel
