Analyze the impact of political climate of UPA-I and UPA-II governments on the functioning of centre-state relations. Have there been any substantial changes in the current regime? Discuss.

The UPA I and UPA II regime saw the rise and importance of regional parties which further led to the strong hold of coalition governments. Thus, the most significant aspect of coalition experiments during UPA regimes (I, II) was the rise of regional satraps and a definite shift from the centre to the states.
In the year 2009 general elections, UPA, NDA, Third Front and Fourth Front were in the fray. Total 46 regional parties along six national parties participated in this election. The UPA was able to get 262 seats. The UPA again formed the government with the outside support of the regional parties. The 2009 elections again proved the importance of regional parties in the Indian politics.
Therefore, it can be observed that there was a pertinent role played by regional parties.
However, today the scenario has changed. There is one party dominance at the centre. Also, in some states there is the government of same party at centre. But some states do exist where the government is formed of regional party. Rise of parties like Aam Admi are gaining momentum and are able to mobilise the states in positive manner.
The intention of the current government is ‘co-operative and competitive federalism’ which believes in ensuring inclusivity in every sense to all and is in the national interest.

Topics: GS-II: Major Issues Pertaining to Federal Structure