Indian federalism is characterized by an independent judiciary which acts as an umpire, and a clear division of legislative and executive powers between the Union and the States. The unequal representation of states in the Rajya Sabha, reflecting their population, is also a distinct feature. However, the Indian federation was not formed through a compact or agreement between independent states, unlike the United States model; rather, it is an integrated federation born out of a constitutional process that grants states their existence and powers.