Question

Explain the nature of Executive in India.

Answer 1

1. Parliamentary form of government: India follows a system where the executive is part of and accountable to the legislature.
2. Dual executive structure: It consists of the nominal executive (President) and the real executive (Prime Minister and Council of Ministers).
3. Collective ministerial responsibility: The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
4. Primacy of the Prime Minister: The Prime Minister is the real head and central figure in the executive.
5. President as constitutional head: The President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers and exercises powers as per the Constitution.
6. Real power with political executive: While the President is the head of state, real authority lies with the elected political executive.
7. Executive drawn from legislature: Ministers must be members of Parliament or get elected within six months.
8. Federal character with unitary tilt: Executive exists at both Union and State levels, but the Centre has more power.
9. Ordinance-making authority: The President can issue ordinances when Parliament is not in session.
10. Administrative and policy execution: The executive implements laws and runs the administration of the country.
11. Accountability to Parliament: The executive must answer to the Parliament, ensuring democratic control.
12. Democratic and constitutional functioning: The executive operates within the limits set by the Constitution and upholds democratic principles.