Question

Discuss three important functions of the Executive.

Explain the various kinds of functions performed by Executives.

What are the different functions performed by the Executive in modern times?

Answer 1

The executive function of the Indian government, with the President as the head along with the Prime Minister and his council of ministers, comprises determining the policy and carrying out the execution, maintaining order, promoting economic and social welfare and directing the foreign policy.

The general supervision and management of the State lie within the area of expertise of the Executive. The President can exercise these powers on the advice of the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. The main function of the Executive is the enforcement of law and maintenance of law and order. It is the duty of the Executive to bring violators of the law of the land to justice.

All the actions that the executive arm of the government takes are in the name of the President. As the President is the ‘head’ of the nation, all the council of ministers are his subordinates and have to take his say in the matter. The Executive has the power to appoint and dismiss high officials and dignitaries. All primary appointments are undertaken by the Chief Executive, i.e., the President of India. He/She appoints the Chief Justice of India among other Supreme Court and High Court Judges. Along with those, the President also appoints the Advocate General of India, Ambassadors, Governors of State, etc.

The Executive powers of the government also include taking care of the relations that the nation develops with foreign powers. The Executive is responsible for the decision to sign treaties with nations. The parliament has the power of making decisions regarding treaties with other nations. The Executive appoints the ambassadors representing India in other countries. With the provisions of the Constitution and the International Law, the Executive negotiates the treaties with other countries.

Answer 2

1. Administrative Functions: The executive is responsible for implementing laws passed by the legislature and managing day-to-day governance. It supervises departments like health, education, transport, and finance.
2. Legislative Functions: Though mainly the domain of the legislature, the executive plays an indirect role by proposing bills, preparing budgets, summoning or dissolving the legislature, and issuing ordinances in emergencies.
3. Judicial Functions: The executive appoints judges and has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, or commute sentences. It may also exercise quasi-judicial powers through tribunals and commissions.
4. Foreign Affairs Functions: The executive conducts diplomacy, signs treaties, appoints ambassadors, and represents the country in international organisations. It maintains relations with foreign nations.
5. Military Functions: The executive, especially the Head of State, is the supreme commander of the armed forces. It takes decisions regarding defence, war, and peace.
6. Financial Functions: The executive prepares and presents the annual budget, manages public finances, levies taxes (subject to legislative approval), and implements economic policies.
7. Emergency Functions: During national emergencies (war, natural disasters, internal disturbances), the executive can take swift decisions, make laws temporarily, and impose restrictions to maintain order and security.
8. Welfare Functions: The modern executive ensures citizens’ welfare by implementing social security, education, healthcare, employment, and housing programs. It plays a crucial role in developing the welfare state.