1. Two or more levels of government: There are two or more levels (or tiers) of government in a federation - in India there is the Union Government, the State Governments and the local self-governments. 2. Separate jurisdictions: Different tiers of government govern the same citizens, but each tier has its own jurisdiction in specific matters of legislation, taxation and administration. 3. Constitutional guarantee: The jurisdictions of the respective levels or tiers of government are specified in the Constitution, so the existence and authority of each tier is constitutionally guaranteed. 4. Rigid procedure of amendment: The fundamental provisions of the Constitution cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of government; such changes require the consent of both the levels of government. 5. Role of courts: Courts have the power to interpret the Constitution and the powers of different levels of government; the highest court acts as an umpire if disputes arise between different levels of government in the exercise of their respective powers. 6. Financial autonomy: Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy. (Any two to be explained)