When does the federal structure become important in a policy decision?

Correct answer: When the policy affects the powers or responsibilities of both the Centre and the States.

Correct answer: A. Federalism means that governmental powers are divided between the Union or Centre and the States. Therefore, a policy becomes a federal matter when it concerns subjects, responsibilities or resources involving both levels of government. The correct authority, coordination and division of work must then be considered. A is correct because such a policy may require action by both the Centre and State governments and must respect their constitutional roles. B is wrong because a private family matter does not normally involve the distribution of public powers. C is wrong because choosing an election symbol is an electoral-administration issue, not the central meaning of federalism. D is wrong because painting a building does not involve constitutional division of powers. Memory cue: federalism means “shared government, divided powers.”