Synopsis Federalism is now the primary axis of Indian politics — and the location of the biggest crises of Indian governance. Nothing illustrates this better than India’s crushing second wave of Covid-19. ANI Modi remains tremendously popular. But he and his party know that regional satraps pose a threat to their power. As anyone who has tried to invest in India can tell you, India’s states are as distinct from each other as European countries. Every now and then, India’s politicians are reminded of this as well. Prime Minister Narendra Modi certainly was earlier this week, when his all-conquering Bharatiya Janata Party fell short of expectations in state elections.