0
The Prime Minister (PM) of India is the head of the government, the most powerful political authority, and the chief executive of the country. The office of the Prime Minister is a crucial part of India’s parliamentary democracy, modeled after the British system.
1. Constitutional Position
The post of the Prime Minister is not directly mentioned in the original Constitution as a separate article but is derived from Article 74 and 75.
Article 74(1): There shall be a Council of Ministers with the Prime Minister at the head to aid and advise the President.
Article 75(1): The Prime Minister is appointed by the President, and the other ministers are appointed on his advice.
The PM acts as a link between the President (nominal executive) and the Council of Ministers (real executive).
2. Appointment and Tenure
The Prime Minister is appointed by the President.
Normally, the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha is invited to form the government.
If no clear majority, the President can invite the leader most likely to command majority support.
Tenure: The PM holds office as long as he enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha. There is no fixed term.
The PM can resign or be removed by a vote of no-confidence in the Lok Sabha.
3. Powers and Functions
A. Executive Powers
Formation of Ministry: The PM recommends the appointment of ministers and can ask for their resignation.
Allocation of Portfolios: Decides which department each minister will handle.
Supervision: Coordinates and supervises the functioning of various ministries.
Cabinet Meetings: Presides over cabinet meetings and decides their agenda.
B. Legislative Powers
Leader of the Lok Sabha (if a member).
Advises the President on summoning, proroguing, and dissolving Parliament.
Plays a key role in policy-making and introduction of bills.
Defends government policies and represents the government in Parliament.
Can recommend President’s Rule (Article 356) in a state.
C. Financial Powers
Plays a vital role in budget preparation.
Advises the President to present the Annual Financial Statement (Budget) before Parliament.
Ensures smooth passage of financial bills and motions.
D. Foreign Affairs
Represents India in international forums such as the UN, G20, and bilateral summits.
Shapes foreign policy and conducts diplomatic relations.
E. Emergency Powers
During National Emergency (Article 352) or President’s Rule, the PM becomes extremely powerful.
Coordinates between central and state governments and ensures national security.
4. Relationship with President
The PM acts as the principal channel of communication between the President and the Council of Ministers (Article 78).
He informs the President about all Cabinet decisions and submits matters for Presidential consideration when required.
Although the President is the nominal head, in practice, he acts according to the advice of the PM and Council of Ministers.
5. Role and Importance
The PM is often called the “keystone of the Cabinet arch.”
Exercises real executive authority in India’s parliamentary democracy.
His personality and leadership style determine the strength of the government.
During stable governments, the PM’s influence is paramount, whereas in coalition governments, the role may depend on consensus building.
6. Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
The PMO is the administrative machinery assisting the Prime Minister.
It provides secretarial assistance, policy advice, and coordination among ministries.
Established in 1947, it has evolved into a powerful decision-making center.
7. Notable Prime Ministers
Jawaharlal Nehru (1947–64): Shaped India’s democratic and foreign policy foundations.
Indira Gandhi: Asserted central authority and introduced the 1975 Emergency.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee: Promoted economic liberalization and nuclear policy.
Manmohan Singh: Architect of economic reforms.
Narendra Modi: Focus on governance reforms, digital India, and global diplomacy.
Conclusion
The Prime Minister is the real executive head and the pivot of India’s political system. His leadership ensures coordination between the executive and legislature, efficient administration, and representation of India at the global stage. In essence, the success or failure of the Indian government largely depends on the vision, leadership, and authority of the Prime Minister.
