AI-generated practice question — model-generated for extra practice, not a previous-year CBSE board question.
Courts act as an 'umpire' in a federal system when disputes arise between different levels of government — for example, when the Union and State Governments disagree over their respective powers, or when a law passed by one level is seen as encroaching on the jurisdiction of another.
This role is necessary because:
The Central Government cannot settle such disputes itself because it is itself a party to the dispute. Allowing it to be the judge would be unfair and would undermine the autonomy of State Governments. Therefore, the High Courts and the Supreme Court interpret the Constitution and give a final, impartial ruling.
Source: Chapter 2 — "What makes India a federal country?", section on Judiciary and federal features.
Examiners expect three things here: (1) what situations require the umpire role (inter-governmental/jurisdictional disputes), (2) why courts are needed (independence/impartiality), and (3) why the Centre cannot decide (it is a party in the dispute, not a neutral body). The textbook explicitly states: "In case of any dispute about the division of powers, the High Courts and the Supreme Court make a decision" — use this directly. Mentioning the three lists shows you understand the source of disputes.