Why do States want more autonomy?
States want more autonomy primarily because they seek a greater share in revenue resources from the Centre. When different political parties are ruling in the State and at the Centre and they are bitter opponents of each other, States feel the need for more autonomy to function effectively.
States also desire respect for their autonomy and a culture of power sharing in the federal system. They want to avoid arbitrary dismissal of State governments by the Central Government. The Supreme Court has supported this trend by making it difficult for the Centre to dismiss State governments arbitrarily, ensuring that federal power sharing is more effective today.
Explanation
The textbook context indicates that States fight with the Centre over autonomy and revenue resources. The mention of different political parties ruling at State and Centre levels suggests political conflicts as a reason for demanding autonomy. The context also highlights the importance of power sharing and respect for State autonomy in federal governance.