How does the distribution of legislative powers work between the Union and the States according to the Indian constitution?
The distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States in India is based on a system of concurrent jurisdiction, where certain matters are within the exclusive authority of the central government, while others fall under the jurisdiction of state governments. Some key provisions related to this distribution include:

1. Union List: This list contains 97 items over which the central government has exclusive power to make laws. Examples include defense, foreign affairs, currency, and citizenship.

2. State List: The state governments have exclusive power to make laws on 66 items listed in this category. These items include agriculture, public health, local government, and trade within the state.

3. Concurrent List: There are 52 items in this list over which both the central government and the states can make laws. Examples include criminal law, marriage and divorce, contracts, and economic planning. In case of conflict between a central law and a state law on a concurrent subject, the central law prevails, unless it is expressly provided otherwise.

4. Residuary Powers: Any matter not explicitly mentioned in either the Union List or State List falls under the residuary powers of the central government.

This system ensures that the central government can effectively coordinate policies and resources across the country, while still allowing states to address their unique local issues and concerns.