Mains Answer Writing - 6 Feb, 2026

Tips for your answer

• Define the shift clearly: Start by stating that the 16th FC moves from open-ended transfers to rule-based and conditional fiscal support to improve accountability.
• Use 2 concrete examples: Mention conditional local body grants and the fiscal deficit / off-budget borrowing restrictions to show the shift in practice.
• Conclude with impact language: End with a line like:
• “The approach strengthens fiscal discipline while preserving cooperative federalism.”