In the intricate tapestry of governance in India, the position of Prime Minister stands as a cornerstone, wielding significant influence over the nation’s direction and policies. For aspirants preparing for the UPSC examinations, comprehending the role and responsibilities of the Prime Minister is not just essential; it’s imperative.
The President of India appoints the Prime Minister, who must either be the leader of the party with a majority in the Lok Sabha or someone capable of securing the confidence of the Lok Sabha by garnering support from other political parties. Additionally, all other ministers are appointed by the President based on the advice provided by the Prime Minister.
Constitutional Provision
The Prime Minister holds the highest governmental position in India and acts as the de facto head of state.
Appointed by the President, the Prime Minister leads the party or coalition holding the majority in the Lok Sabha, India’s lower house of Parliament.
Responsibilities of the Prime Minister include overseeing government administration and serving as the primary spokesperson for government policies.
According to Article 75, the President appoints the Council of Ministers based on the Prime Minister’s advice. Additionally, Article 74(1) establishes a Council of Ministers led by the Prime Minister to aid and advise the President, indicating that other ministers operate under the Prime Minister’s direction.
As a result, the Prime Minister’s role is so significant in India’s parliamentary system that the country’s government structure is often referred to as a ‘Prime Ministerial Government.’
Appointment of Prime Minister
The Constitution of India does not prescribe a specific procedure for the selection and appointment of the Prime Minister.
Article 75 states that the President appoints the Prime Minister, but this does not grant the President unlimited discretion in the selection process.
Following the conventions of parliamentary government, the President typically appoints the leader of the party or coalition with a majority in the Lok Sabha as Prime Minister.
However, in situations where no single party commands a clear majority, the President may exercise discretion in selecting the Prime Minister. In such cases, the President usually chooses the leader of the largest party or coalition in the Lok Sabha and requires them to seek a vote of confidence within a month.
Oath, Term, and Salary
Oath: Before assuming office, the Prime Minister-Elect takes an oath administered by the President. This oath includes commitments to uphold the Constitution, maintain India’s sovereignty and integrity, fulfill duties conscientiously, and ensure justice to all citizens without bias.
Term: The Prime Minister’s tenure isn’t fixed and is at the discretion of the President. However, the President cannot dismiss the Prime Minister as long as they retain majority support in the Lok Sabha. If the Prime Minister loses the confidence of the Lok Sabha, they must resign or face dismissal by the President.
Salary: The Prime Minister’s salary and benefits are determined by Parliament and include compensation similar to that of a Member of Parliament, along with additional perks such as housing, travel allowances, and medical facilities.
Powers of the Prime Minister
Executive Powers: As the head of the Union Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister oversees the government’s administration, chairs cabinet meetings, and coordinates the activities of various ministries and departments.
Legislative Powers: The Prime Minister, as a member of either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, participates in parliamentary proceedings. Additionally, they advise the President on matters such as summoning and prorogation of parliament sessions and the dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
Diplomatic Powers: Representing India internationally, the Prime Minister engages in negotiations with foreign countries, receives foreign diplomats, and hosts dignitaries on behalf of the President.
Emergency Powers: During national emergencies, the Prime Minister advises the President on necessary measures to safeguard India’s security.
Appointment Powers: The Prime Minister, along with the Council of Ministers, advises the President on appointments to key positions in the higher judiciary and administration, including Governors, the Chief Election Commissioner, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India, and the Attorney General of India.
Financial Powers: Responsible for the country’s economic and financial management, the Prime Minister’s government presents the annual budget to parliament and ensures its passage.
Functions of Responsibility of Prime Minister
The Prime Minister serves as the leader of the Union Council of Ministers and the Government of India, overseeing government administration. They chair cabinet meetings and ensure coordination among ministries and departments.
Regarding the Council of Ministers (CoM):
- The Prime Minister, as the head of the Union council of ministers, has the following responsibilities:
- Recommending individuals for ministerial appointments to the President, who can only appoint those recommended by the Prime Minister.
- Assigning and reshuffling ministerial portfolios.
- Advising the President on ministerial resignations or dismissals.
- Chairing meetings of the council of ministers and influencing its decisions.
- Guiding, directing, controlling, and coordinating the activities of all ministers.
- Resigning from office to dissolve the council of ministers if necessary.
Regarding the President:
- The Prime Minister serves as the main intermediary between the President and the council of ministers, and is responsible for:
- Informing the President of all decisions made by the council of ministers regarding Union affairs and legislative proposals.
- Providing guidance to the President on key appointments, such as the Attorney General of India and members of various commissions.
Regarding the Parliament:
- As the leader of the Lok Sabha, the Prime Minister has the following functions:
- Advising the President on summoning and ending parliamentary sessions.
- Recommending the dissolution of the Lok Sabha to the President when necessary.
- Announcing government policies in the House.
Other Functions and Responsibilities:
- Apart from these primary roles, the Prime Minister also:
- Chairs various bodies like NITI Aayog and councils related to national integration and water resources.
- Shapes the country’s foreign policy.
- Acts as the chief spokesperson for the Union government.
- Manages political crises during emergencies.
- Meets with various groups and receives memoranda regarding their issues.
- Leads the party in power.
- Oversees the political aspect of the services.
Function of the PMO(Prime Minister’s Office)
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) in India serves as the administrative body supporting the Prime Minister in managing the Government of India and executing constitutional, executive, and administrative functions.
Responsibilities of the PMO include coordinating the operations of various government departments and ministries, as well as advising the Prime Minister on a broad range of policy and administrative matters.
Led by the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, the PMO comprises several senior officials assisting the Prime Minister in their duties.
Departments and organizations under the purview of the PMO include the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Department of Space (DoS), and the National Security Council (NSC).
Also read about Emergency Provision of Indian Constitution.