Foreign Relations in the Indian Federal System

Abstract

The paper explores the changing nature of federalism by emphasizing the interaction of constituent units in India with foreign governments at all levels. The New Economic Reforms have involved bureaucratic deregulation, economic liberalisation and globalisation which have led the Central government to sign international treaties with nominal (or, in some cases, with no) consultation with the states. The problem arises when there is a conflict of interest between the union and the states. The paper dissects the constitutional demarcation of jurisdictions between the federal government and its constituent units with respect to the conduct of foreign relations. The paper examines the role constituent units have played in the negotiation and signing of international treaties and conducting foreign relations.