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 form of government and a unitary one lies in the relationship between the central government and the sub-units.
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, and they must follow these orders.
In a federal system, the central government cannot order the state government to do something. The state government has powers of its own for which it is not answerable to the central government. Both these governments are separately answerable to the people. For example, in India, which is a federal country, the power is divided between the central authority and state governments. Each tier has its own jurisdiction in specific matters of legislation, taxation and administration, which is constitutionally guaranteed. The existence and authority of each tier cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of government.
Explanation
This answer draws directly from the textbook's comparison between unitary and federal systems. The key distinction is that in unitary systems, sub-units are subordinate to the centre, while in federal systems, state governments have constitutionally guaranteed independent powers. India is used as an example of federalism as mentioned in the context.