The Prime Minister is the real executive head of the government, while the President is the nominal head. The Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers and runs the country's administration. Provisions are given in Articles 74 and 75.
Appointment of the Prime Minister
The Prime Minister is appointed by the President. By convention, the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha is appointed. The Prime Minister can be a member of either House of Parliament. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
The Council of Ministers
Article 74 provides for a Council of Ministers to aid and advise the President. The advice is binding on the President. There are three categories of ministers:
- Cabinet Ministers – senior ministers in charge of important departments.
- Ministers of State – may hold independent charge or assist cabinet ministers.
- Deputy Ministers – assist other ministers in their work.
Powers and Functions
- Forms the Council of Ministers and allocates portfolios.
- Chairs the Cabinet meetings.
- Advises the President on appointments and dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
- Acts as the link between the President and the Council of Ministers.
- Leads the government in Parliament.
Size of the Council
The 91st Amendment Act, 2003 fixed the total number of ministers, including the Prime Minister, at 15 per cent of the total strength of the Lok Sabha.
Quick Revision Points
- PM and Council are covered under Articles 74-75.
- Prime Minister is the real executive head.
- Appointed by the President; usually the majority leader.
- Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha.
- Three types: Cabinet, State and Deputy Ministers.
- Council size capped at 15% of Lok Sabha by the 91st Amendment.
- Jawaharlal Nehru was India's first Prime Minister.