What is the main difference between a federal form of government and a unitary one? Explain with an example.
The main difference between a federal and unitary form of government lies in the relationship between the central government and regional governments.
In a unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the central government. The central government can pass on orders to the provincial or local government.
In a federal system, the central government cannot order the state government to do something. State governments have powers of their own for which they are not answerable to the central government. Both these governments are separately answerable to the people. For example, India is a federal country where power is divided between the central authority and state governments, and both levels enjoy their power independent of each other.
Explanation
The textbook clearly contrasts federations with unitary governments. In unitary systems, sub-units are subordinate to the centre, which can pass orders to them. In federal systems like India, state governments have constitutionally guaranteed powers and are not answerable to the central government. Both levels are independently answerable to the people.