Question

Describe the powers and functions of the prime minister of India.

Answer 1

The Prime Minister of India is the head of the government and country. He is appointed by the President of India after the political party wins a general election and nominates a candidate for the post. The leader of that political party is hence appointed as the Prime Minister of India.

Types of Ministers in India

The Constitution of India does not group ministers into ranks, but in practice, ministers are of four types seen in India:

• Cabinet Ministers : He is present and he participates in every meeting of the Cabinet.
• Minister of State with independent charge: He is a Minister of State who does not work under a Cabinet Minister. When any matter concerning his Department is on the agenda of the Cabinet, he is invited to attend the meeting.
• Minister of State: He is a Minister who does not have independent charge of any Department and works under a Cabinet Minister. The work to such Minister is allotted by his Cabinet Minister.
• Deputy Minister: He is a Minister who works under a Cabinet Minister or a Minister of State with independent charge. His work is allotted by the Minister under whom he is working.

Power and function of Prime Minister

The Prime Minister of India serves the country by performing various functions. He performs his functions taking responsibilities that are listed below

• The leader of the Country: The Prime Minister of India is the Chief Head of the Government of India.
• Portfolio allocation: The Prime Minister has the authority to assign respective portfolios to the Ministers.
• Chairman of the Cabinet: The Prime Minister is the chairman of the cabinet and conducts the meetings of the Cabinet. He can impose his decision if there is a crucial opinion difference and conflict among the members.
• Official Representative of the country: The Prime minister represents the country for high-level international meetings and he is the ambassador of the country.
• The link between the President and the Cabinet: The Prime Minister acts as the link and bond between the President and cabinet. He communicates and transmits all decisions of the Cabinet to the President which is related to the administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation.
• Head: The Prime Minister is the head of many organisation and programs like Nuclear Command Authority, NITI Aayog, Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space and Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• Chief Advisor: He also plays the role of chief advisor to the President