Home The Constitution Part XVIII Article 354

Art. 354 Part XVIII: Emergency Provisions

Application of Provisions Relating to Distribution of Revenues While a Proclamation of Emergency Is in Operation

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) The President may, while a Proclamation of Emergency is in operation, by order, direct that all or any of the provisions of articles 268 to 279 shall for such period, not extending in any case beyond the expiration of the financial year in which such Proclamation ceases to operate, as may be specified in the order, have effect subject to such exceptions or modifications as he thinks fit. (2) Every order made under clause (1) shall, as soon as may be after it is made, be laid before each House of Parliament.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article gives the President power to modify how tax revenue is distributed between the Union and States (normally governed by Articles 268-279) while a National Emergency is in force — recognising that the Emergency's fiscal demands might require departing from the usual revenue-sharing arrangements, at least temporarily.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is a less-visible but practically significant Emergency power — it lets the government adjust the financial relationship between Centre and states to meet Emergency-driven fiscal needs, without requiring a separate constitutional amendment to the underlying revenue-sharing Articles.

Read alongside this one

Art. 270 — Distribution of Tax Revenues Between Union and States

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 354

Is this modification permanent once made?

No — any such order is time-limited, capped at the end of the financial year in which the Emergency itself ceases to operate, and must be laid before Parliament.

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The text above reproduces Article 354 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.