Distinction on the basis of three points between Unitary and federal system:
1. Difference (distinction) of centralization of powers and their distribution:
In unitary government, there is no division of powers between centre and states in constitutional context. In this system, all powers lie with central government, whereas in federal system, there is a division of powers between center and state governments through a written constitution and both are independent in their respective field.
2. Difference on the basis of form of constitution:
In the states having unitary form of government, constitution may be of any form— written, unwritten, rigid or flexible, whereas in the states having federal form of government, constitution has mandatorily to be supreme, written and rigid.
3. Difference on the basis of size of state:
Unitary government is suitable for small states, where there is uniformity in respect of language, religion, culture, etc., whereas federal government is suitable for big states, where the people from different religions, languages, cultures and ideologies live.