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
- Who is the real executive head of India?
Answer: Prime Minister - Which Articles deal with the Prime Minister?
Answer: Articles 74 and 75 - Who appoints the Prime Minister?
Answer: President of India - Can a Rajya Sabha member become Prime Minister?
Answer: Yes - 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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