Prime Minister of India: Powers, Functions, Appointment, Term and Removal for SSC, UPSC & Railway Exams

Prime Minister of India: Powers, Functions, Appointment, Term and Removal for SSC, UPSC & Railway Exams

The Prime Minister of India is the real executive head of the Government and one of the most important topics in Indian Polity for SSC, UPSC, Railway, Banking and other competitive examinations.

Prime Minister of India Overview

Particulars Details
Position Prime Minister of India
Article Articles 74 & 75
Executive Head Yes
Appointment By President of India
Term No Fixed Term
Official Residence 7, Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi

Constitutional Provisions Related to Prime Minister

Article Description
74 Council of Ministers to Aid and Advise the President
75 Appointment, Tenure and Responsibilities of Ministers
78 Duties of the Prime Minister

Who Appoints the Prime Minister?

The President appoints the Prime Minister. Generally, the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha is appointed as the Prime Minister of India.

Qualifications of Prime Minister

  • Must be a citizen of India.
  • Must be a member of Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha.
  • If not a member, must become a member within six months.
  • Must satisfy the qualifications required for Parliament membership.

Powers and Functions of the Prime Minister

1. Head of the Government

  • Leads the Central Government.
  • Coordinates all ministries.
  • Acts as the chief spokesperson of the Government.

2. Head of the Council of Ministers

  • Selects ministers.
  • Allocates portfolios.
  • Can recommend dismissal of ministers.

3. Link Between President and Council of Ministers

  • Communicates decisions of the Cabinet to the President.
  • Keeps the President informed about administration.

4. Leader of Parliament

  • Leads the Lok Sabha if a member.
  • Guides legislative business.
  • Plays a major role in policy making.

5. Chairman of Important Bodies

  • NITI Aayog
  • National Integration Council
  • National Development related committees

Term of Office

The Constitution does not specify a fixed term for the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister remains in office as long as he or she enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha.

Removal of the Prime Minister

Method Description
Loss of Majority If majority support in Lok Sabha is lost
Resignation Voluntary resignation
Death Office becomes vacant

Prime Minister vs President

President Prime Minister
Constitutional Head Real Executive Head
Indirectly Elected Appointed by President
Articles 52-62 Articles 74-78
Nominal Executive Actual Executive

Important Facts for Competitive Exams

Question Answer
Real Executive Head of India Prime Minister
Article Related to PM 74 & 75
Chairman of NITI Aayog Prime Minister
Can a Rajya Sabha Member Become PM? Yes
Appointment By President

Previous Year Exam Questions

  1. Who is the real executive head of India?
    Answer: Prime Minister
  2. Which Articles deal with the Prime Minister?
    Answer: Articles 74 and 75
  3. Who appoints the Prime Minister?
    Answer: President of India
  4. Can a Rajya Sabha member become Prime Minister?
    Answer: Yes
  5. Who is the Chairman of NITI Aayog?
    Answer: Prime Minister

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who appoints the Prime Minister of India?

The President of India appoints the Prime Minister.

Which Articles deal with the Prime Minister?

Articles 74, 75 and 78 deal with the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers.

What is the tenure of the Prime Minister?

There is no fixed tenure. The Prime Minister remains in office while enjoying majority support in Lok Sabha.

Can a Rajya Sabha member become Prime Minister?

Yes, a member of Rajya Sabha can become Prime Minister.

Who is the real executive head of India?

The Prime Minister is the real executive head of India.

Related Study Material

  • President of India Notes
  • Fundamental Rights Notes
  • Fundamental Duties Notes
  • Indian Constitution Articles List

Conclusion

The Prime Minister occupies the most powerful executive position in India. Understanding the powers, appointment process, functions and constitutional provisions related to the Prime Minister is essential for competitive examinations.

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