Working Of Institutions - Class 9 Civics - Extra Questions

How is the Prime Minister elected? 

The Prime Minister is elected by the Members of Parliament. Out of 545 seats in Lok Sabha, any party who wins a majority of seats choose their leader to be the head of the Government. Article 75 of the Constitution provides that the Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President but the President has to appoint the leader of the majority party in Lok Sabha as the Prime Minister. But when no party has a clear majority in the Lok Sabha the President can exercise his personal discretion in the appointment of Prime Minister.


 Explain the term the 'Lok Sabha'.

Lok Sabha is the Lower House of the Indian Parliament. The members of the Lok Sabha are elected by the Adult Universal Suffrage ( right to vote for all citizens of 18 years of age) and represent their respective constituencies and hold their seats for five years term. Currently, the house the 545 seats out which 543 members. There is a reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. (24%)


Explain the Council of Ministers. 

The Prime Minister is the Head of the Government. He is the real executive authority. The council of ministers is the ministers which hold ministry in the Particular government and lead by the head I.e., Prime Minister. These ministers are appointed by the President on the recommendation of the Prime Minister and perform executive functions.  Articles 74 and 75 of the Constitution of India deal with the council of ministers and Prime Minister. Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to Lok Sabha.


State any one reason why the President is elected indirectly.

Under the system of Parliamentary Democracy present in India, the President is only the nominal executive and the real power resides with the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister which is the real executive. The President is elected indirectly as spending huge amount of money, time and other resources for direct election of the nominal executive was not considered necessary by our Constitution makers.


State any one administrative function of the Cabinet.

One of the important administrative functions of the Cabinet is to recommend appointments to important posts like Governors of states, members of organisations like UPSC etc to the President. 


Three friends went to watch a film that showed the hero becoming Chief Minister for a day and making big changes in the state. Imran said this is what the country needs. Rizwan said this kind of a personal rule without institutions is dangerous. Shankar said all this is a fantasy. No minister can do anything in one day. What would be your reaction to such a film?

This film is unrealistic. A single man cant do anything alone. He have to follow procedures and guides written in constitution. A personal rule without institutions is dangerous.


Who appoints the Prime Minister?

The Constitution of India provides that Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President but the President has to appoint the leader of the majority party in Lok Sabha as Prime Minister but when no party has a clear majority in the Lok Sabha the president can exercise his personal discretion in appointment of Prime Minister.


Who is the Chairman of Planning Commission?

The Prime Minister of India is the ex officio chairman of the Planning Commission. The deputy chairman is appointed by the cabinet who enjoys the rank of the cabinet minister.


When was the Lok Sabha (the House of the People) first constituted?

The Lok Sabha (House of the People) was duly constituted for the first time on 17 April 1952 after the first General Elections held from 25 October 1951 to 21 February  1952.


When was the first Session of the Lok Sabha held?

 The Lok Sabha is composed of representatives of the people chosen by direct election on the basis of adult suffrage.  That is why it is called the popular chamber.


What is meant by 'impeachment' ?

Impeachment is an official removal process of a government official who is at a higher post in the system on the basis unlawful activities.
In India, chief justice, judges of high court and President can be removed only by the impeachment process.


Explain two legislative powers of the Cabinet.

Legislative powers:
(i) The Cabinet is instrumental in planning and moving the Amendment to the Constitution.
(ii) Cabinet advises the President to issue ordinances when the Parliament is not in session.


Explain two administrative powers of the Cabinet.

Administrative powers of the Cabinet:
(i) The Cabinet is a policy-making body. It formulates the external and domestic policies of the government.
(ii) It takes decision in problems of defence and security needs.


Explain the term Collective Responsibility.

The term Collective Responsibility means that all the members of the Council of Ministers are collectively responsible for the decision taken by them pertaining to the Government of the State.


What options are open to the President when an Ordinary Bill is sent to him for his assent?

When a bill is sent to the President after it has been passed by the Parliament, he can:
1. give his assent to the bill
2. withhold his assent to the bill
3. return the bill (if it is not a money bill) for reconsideration of the Parliament.


How long can a Minister stay in office?

As per Article 75, the Minister shall hold office during the pleasure of the President. He usually stays in office for a period of five years as long as he enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha.


The Union Executive which consists of the President, Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers is a powerful body in a Parliament Democracy. In this context answer the following questions.

State the position of the Prime Minister and state any two of his powers in relation to the President.

In the scheme of the parliamentary system of government provided by the constitution, the President is the nominal executive authority (de jure executive) and Prime Minister is the real executive authority (de facto executive). In other words, the President is the head of the State while Prime Minister is the head of the government.

The Prime Minister enjoys the following powers in relation to the President:
1. He is the principal channel of communication between the President and the council of ministers.It is the duty of the prime minister to communicate to the President all decisions of the council of ministers relating to the
administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation.

2. He advises the president with regard to the appointment of important officials like Attorney General of India, Comptroller and Auditor General of India, chairman and members of the UPSC, election commissioners, chairman and members of the finance commission and so on.


State any one qualification necessary for the election of the President of India.

The citizen of India who has completed the age of 35 years.


Name the law making body of the Union Government.

The lawmaking body of the Union Government is called the Parliament. In India, it is bicameral in nature. It consists of Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The members of the Parliament are the representatives of the people who are elected directly in case of Lok Sabha and indirectly in case of Rajya Sabha.


Answer the following questions in a sentence each:
Who was the first President of independent India?

With the implementation of the Constitution on 26th January 1950, Dr. Babu Rajendra Prasad became the first President of Independent India.


Write any one circumstance when the President can declare a National Emergency.

It can be declared if there is a war, external aggression or armed rebellion inside the country.


Of all the institutions that we have studied in this chapter, name the one that exercises the powers on each of the following matters.
Decision on allocation of money for developing infrastructure like roads, irrigation etc. and different welfare activities for the citizens.

Lok Sabha (The Finance Ministry).


Discuss the relationships of president and Prime Minister.

Prime Minister if the  head of the Government. The President is the Head of State. Prime Minister along with his Council of Ministers is jointly responsible to the President.Even though many think the President is only a ceremonial head of the State, the fact is he has  important  legislative. executive and judicial functions. After the elections to the Lok Sabha, it is the President who invites the leader of the majority party ito form the government. It may be mentioned that it is not laid down in the Constitution that he can invite only the leader of the majority party but in practice the PM has to have the confidence of Majority in Parliament. But when no party has majority, the President has lot of discretion to invite any member who in his view will be able to for the Government.

`All executive functions of the Government are done in the name of President though all files do not go to him. There is a delegation called Transaction of business Rules which has stipulated the delegation. All Group A appointments in the Central Government are done in the name President. He signs the credentials of officers who represents India abroad and in international organisations. He also appoints Vice Chancellors of Central Universities.

`All the bills passed by both Houses of Parliament becomes Acts only after the President gives assent. The President can return the bills for clarifications and if they are passed again and sent for approval, the President has to to sign. But if the President neither signs nor returns the bill there is little the PM or government can do. This is called pocket veto

President is also the Head of armed forces of India.
President also appoints Judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts. All the functions of the President is done on the recommendation of the Government headed by the Prime Minister.
In view the above it is evident a good rapport between the PM and the President is of utmost importance in smooth transaction of government's business.


Match column I with column II and select the correct answer using the codes given below :
Column I: Ministry
Column II: News that the ministry have released

Ministry of Defence is responsible for for policy frameworks and financing of Armed forces. It issues directions in all defence and security related matters.
Ministry of Health and Welfare is responsible for health planning in India. It governs and issues programs relating to family planning, personal health, social health and welfare.
Ministry of communication and Information Technology was divided into Ministry of Communications and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The former is responsible for telecommunications and postal services while the latter is responsible for IT policy and development of electronics industry. 
Ministry of Commerce and Industry is responsible for formulating foreign trade policies, state trading and promotion of Industry and internal trade.


Compare the following facts and select the correct option given below against each other

  • A bill is called a financial bill if it results in imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax at union or state level but NOT at local level. It includes fiscal policy. Fiscal policy is the means by which a government adjusts its spending levels and tax rates to monitor and influence a nation's economy.
  • Ordinance: it is an authoritative order or a Sanction of law by President or Governor.
  • Parliament: it includes upper and lower houses. It deals with law making processes.
  • Vice president: he is the exofficio chairman of Rajyasabha which is a upper house.



Name the law which makes the body of the Union Government.

Parliament is the law making body of the Union Government. the Legislative procedure in India for Union Government requires that proposed bills pass through the two legislative houses of the Indian Parliament, i.e. the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha.


What type of members are nominated by the President to the Rajya Sabha?

Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Parliament. The Constitution fixes the maximum membership to 250. Most of the members are elected by indirect election by state and territorial legislatures using single transferable votes while the President can appoint 12 members for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social services. The tenure of the members is of six years.


Who is the head of the Union Council of Ministers?

Prime Minister is the head of the Union Council of Ministers. Article 75 says that Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President. The Constitution does not contain any specific procedure for selection and appointment of the Prime Minister.


Mention any one circumstance when the Parliament can make laws on a state subject.

The Parliament can make laws on the subjects mentioned in the State List in the following circumstances:

 

1. According to Article 249 of Constitution of India, when a resolution is passed by the Rajya Sabha by two-thirds majority making it lawful for the Parliament to legislate on a subject mentioned in the State List in national interest.

 2. According to Article 250 of Constitution of India, when a proclamation of emergency is in operation, the Parliament has the power to make laws for the whole or any part of India on any of the matters stated in the State List.

 3. According to Article 252 of Constitution of India, when two or more States give their consent and pass resolutions for the same in their respective Legislatures to enable the Parliament to make a law on any matter listed in the State List. Any such law will be applicable to only those States which have passed such resolution, not to all states.

 



By whom and on whose advice can the Lok Sabha be dissolved?

The President has the power of to summon and prorogue both the House of Parliament. He can also dissolve the House of the People before the expiry of its term with the advice of Prime minister.


Mention the qualifications necessary for election as President of India.

Article 58 of the Indian Constitution says that the presidential candidate must:-
  1. Be a citizen of India.
  2. Have completed the age of thirty-five years.
  3. Be qualified for elections as a member of the Lok Sabha.
  4. Not hold any office of profit under the Union or any State government, or any local or other authority.


What are the advantages of Rajya Sabha?

The following are the chief advantages of the Rajya Sabha:-
  • It acts as a check on hasty legislation.
  • it give representation to independent talented persons.
  • It keeps in touch with new issues and ever changing public opinion.
  • It play a major role when Lok Sabha is dissolved.
  • Many bills are first introduced in the Rajya Sabha and cleared by his House. Thus Lok Sabha is relieved of its burden.


Who is the Head of State in the Union of India?

There is a Governor for each state who is appointed by the President. Governor is the Head of the State and the executive power of the State is vested in him. The Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister as its head advises the Governor in the discharge of the executive functions.


What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha fixed by the Constitution? 

Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Parliament. The maximum strength of the House envisaged by the Constitution is 552. It consists of representatives elected by the people for a period of five years by direct election on the basis of the adult suffrage.


What is the term of office of the President of India?

Article 56 of the Indian Constitution says that the President shall hold office for a term of five years from the date he takes up his post. He may resign from his office by writing his resignation to the Vice-President of India. But, he will continue to hold his office, in spite of tendering his resignation, until his successor takes up his office. And, before his office gets vacated, an election should be held for the same.


Under what circumstances can the President of India use his discretionary powers?

President of India can act on his discretion without the aid and advice of  the ministers under the following situations:
1. Appointment of Prime Minister when no party has a clear majority in the Lok Sabha or when the Prime Minister dies in office suddenly and there is no obvious successor.
2. Dismissal of the council of ministers when it cannot prove the confidence of Lok Sabha.
3. Dissolution of the Lok Sabha if the council of ministers has lost its majority.


State the difference between Collective Responsibility and Individual Responsibility of the Ministers.

Article 75 mentions about collective responsibility and Individual Responsibility of the Ministers. Individual ministerial responsibility refers to the convention that a minister is responsible to Parliament for the actions of their department. Collective responsibility requires each minister to support each Government decision.


By whom and on whose advice is the Council of Ministers appointed?

As per Article 75 of the Constitution of India, the Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President and the other Ministers shall be appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.  The Ministers shall hold office during the pleasure of the President. The total number of Ministers, including the Prime Minister, in the Council of Ministers, shall not exceed fifteen per cent. of the total number of members of the House of the People.


Why is the President of India referred to as a Nominal Head of the State?

The President is the head of the state. All the important decisions are taken in his name. But he is known as de jure head or nominal Head of the State because, in reality, power is exercised by the council of ministers headed by the Prime Minister. Also, the President works on the suggestions by the PM.


How can the President vacate his office?

The President holds office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters the office. He can resign from his office at any time by addressing the resignation letter to the Vice President.


What must be the qualifications of  a Minister?

Following are the qualifications of a minister:-

  1. He must be a citizen of India.
  2. He should be a member of parliament.
  3. He must be not less than 30 years of age in the case of the Rajya Sabha and not less than 25 years of age in the case of the Lok Sabha.
  4. He must be registered as an elector for a parliamentary constituency.
  5. He must not have been found guilty of certain election offences.
  6. He must not have been convicted for any offence resulting in imprisonment for two or more years.
  7. He must not have been dismissed from government service for corruption or disloyal to the state.



As head of the Government, the Prime Minister has the responsibility of managing all affairs of the country. In this context, state the following:
(a) The manner of his appointment.
(b) His important powers.
(c) His position under the Parliamentary system of government.

(a) Article 75 says that Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President. The Constitution does not contain any specific procedure for selection and appointment of the Prime Minister.
(b) Functions (powers) of the Prime Minister are as below:
1. He recommends persons who can be appointed as ministers by the president.
2. He presides over the meetings of the council of ministers and influences its decisions.
3. He is the principal channel of communication between the president and the council of ministers.
(c) Prime Minister is the head of the Union Council of Ministers. He is the leader of the House to which he belongs. He is the de facto head or the head of the government who is responsible for taking the important decisions.


Is it good to elect a President for life or is it better to hold regular elections after every five years? Give reasons.

No, it is not good to elect a President for life. But it is certainly better to hold regular elections after a fixed tenure, which should be of five years. The reasons are given below:
(i) Rulers elected by the people can take a final decision on all the major issues.
(ii) Such elections offer a choice and fair opportunity to the people to change the current rulers.
(iii) This choice and opportunity is available to all the people on an equal basis.
(iv) The exercise of this choice leads to a government limited by basic rules of the constitutional and citizen's right.
Thus, we can say that holding regular elections after a fixed tenure ensure healthy government.


Which of the two Houses is more powerful?

The Lok Sabha exercises more powers than the Rajya Sabha: 
(i) Any ordinary law needs to be passed by both the Houses. But if there is a difference between the two Houses, the final decision is taken in a joint session in which members of the Houses sit together. Since the Lok Sabha has a larger number of members, their view is likely to prevail in such a meeting. 
(ii) The Lok Sabha exercises more powers in money matters. Once the Lok Sabha passes the budget of the government or any other money-related law, the Rajya Sabha cannot reject it. The Rajya Sabha can only delay it by 14 days or suggest changes in it. The Lok Sabha may or may not accept these changes.


'The Prime Minister of a coalition government faces certain constraints'. Explain.

(i) The rise of coalition politics has imposed certain constraints on the power of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister of a coalition government cannot take decisions as he likes. 
(ii) He has to accommodate different groups and factions in his party as well as among the alliance partners. 
(iii) He also has to heed to the views and positions of the coalition partners and other parties, on whose support the survival of the government depends.


When and how does the President exercise his discretion?

When a party or coalition of parties gets a clear majority in the elections, the President has to appoint the leader of the majority party or the coalition that enjoys majority support in the Lok Sabha. When no party or coalition gets a majorty in the Lok Sabha, the President exercise his discretion. The President appoints a leader who in his opinion can muster majority support in the Lok Sabha. In such a case, the President can ask the newly appointed to prove majority support in the Lok Sabha within a specified time.


What power does the Lok Sabha exercise in the matter of money?

The Lok Sabha exercises supreme power in the matter of money. Once the Lok Sabha passes the budget of the government or any other money related law the Rajya Sabha cannot reject it. The Rajya Sabha can only delay it by 14 days or suggest changes in it. The Lok Sabha may or may not accept these changes.


Give brief despriction of the appointments made by the President of India.

The President of India makes all major appointments. These are given below: 
(i) He/She appoints the Chief Justice of India, the Judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts of the states. 
(ii) He appoints the Prime Minister of India and other ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister. He appoints the Governors of the states. 
(iii) He appoints the Election Commissioners and Ambassadors to other countries.


What are the limitations of the power of the President of India?

(a) The President is the head of the State and not the head of the government. Therefore, he exercises only nominal powers and that too on the advice of the council of Ministers. 
(b) The President can ask the Council of Ministers to reconsider its advice. But if the same advice is given again, he/she is bound to act according to it. 
(c) A bill passed by the Parliament becomes a law only after the President gives assent to it. If the President wants, he/she can delay this for some time and send the bill back to the Parliament for reconsideration. But if the Parliament passes the bill again, he/she has to sign it.


Who settles disputes arising in connection with the election of the President of India?

The 29th Constitution Amendment Act (1975) and the 44th Constitution Amendment Act (1978) lay down that any dispute over the election of the President shall be decided by the Supreme Court of India.


Who presides over the meetings of the state cabinet?

The real executive, consisting of the chief minister and his council of ministers, manages the administration of the state on behalf of the governor. The Chief  Minister holds a similar But the real executive, consisting of the chief minister and his council of ministers, manages the administration of the state on behalf of the governor.


Explain the formation of the Cabinet.

The formation of the Cabinet: The Cabinet is composed of a small but important body of senior leaders of the party, who are included in the Council of Ministers. They hold important portfolios and decide major policies of the Government. They, being trusted men of the Prime Minister, form the nucleus of the administration. The decisions of the Cabinet are binding on all the ministers. 


The makers of our Constitution adopted the Parliamentary and the Cabinet form of Government. With reference to this, answer the following question:
Distinguish between the Cabinet and the Council of Ministers.

The Council of Ministers of the Republic of India is the collective decision-making body of the Government of India, consisting of a group of ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
There are three categories of ministers, in descending order of rank:

  • Union Cabinet Minister: senior minister in-charge of a ministry.
  • Minister of State (Independent Charges): with no overseeing union cabinet minister for that portfolio
  • Minister of State (MoS): junior minister reporting to a cabinet minister, usually tasked with a specific responsibility in that ministry.

The Cabinet of India, also known as the Union Cabinet, is the collective decision-making body of the Government of India, consists of the Prime Minister and the cabinet ministers. The Cabinet is the ultimate decision-making body of the government.
Hence we could say that the cabinet is a subset of the council of ministers.



Who has the power to promulgate an Ordinance at the Centre? When can it be promulgated?

President has the power to promulgate an ordinance at the Centre. Ordinances are issued when both the houses or any one of the houses of Parliament are not in session.


Mention any one discretionary power of the President.

When no political party or leader seems to enjoy majority support in the Lok Sabha, the President shall have freedom to decide who should be appointed as Prime Minister.


Which body formulates the foreign policy of India?

The Cabinet or council of minister, along with the Prime Minister.
The Council of Ministers determines the policy and programme of the government.
The Cabinet formulates the external and domestic policies of the government.


By whom and on whose advice are the Council of Ministers appointed?

President of India appoints the Council of Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister of India.


The President of India is the Constitutional Head of the Indian Republic.
In this context, answer the following questions :
How is the President elected?

The President is elected by the members of an Electoral College consisting of the elected members of both Houses of Parliament and of the Legislative Assemblies of the states and the Union Territories of Delhi  and Puducherry.


State the composition of the Electoral College in the election of the president of India.

The President is elected by the members of an Electoral College consisting of:
(a) The elected members of both houses of the Parliament and
(b) The elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States including National Capital Territory of Delhi and the Union Territory of Puducherry.


The President of India is the Constitutional Head of the Indian Republic.
In this context, answer the following questions :
Explain briefly any four 'Executive Powers' of the President.

Executives powers of the President are as under:
  • Power to appoint and remove the High Dignitaries of the state like Attorney- General of India, Auditor- General of India, Chief Justice and judges of the Supreme Courts and the High Courts etc.
  • Administration of Union Territories and border areas.
  • President is the head of all Union officials. All executive orders are issued in the name of the President.
  • Controls over the State Government during President's rule.


What is understood by the term 'Individual Responsibility' in a Parliamentary Democracy?

Though the ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, they shall be individually responsible to the Head of the State. It implies that the Minister shall be liable to be dismissed by the President for their undesirable activities. 


Name the official procedure by which the President can be removed.

The president may can be removed before the expiry of the term through impeachment for violating the Constitution of India by the Parliament of India.



The President of India is the Head of the Indian Republic, while the Governor is the Head of the State Government. In this context. answer the following question.
Enumerate three similar features in the legislative powers of the President and the Governor.

Similarities of Legislative Powers of President and Governor.
GovernorPresident
$$(1)$$ A Bill passed by the state Legislature requires Governor's Assent to become a law.A Bill passed by the Parliament requires President's Assent to become a law.
$$(2)$$ Governor can issue an ordinance when the state Legislature is not in session.President can issue an ordinance when the Parliament is not in session.
$$(3)$$ Governor summons the sessions of both the houses of State Legislature and prorogues them.The President summons the sessions of both the Houses of Parliament and prorogues them
$$(4)$$ Governor has the power to dissolve the state Assembly.The President has the Power to dissolve the Lok Sabha.
(any three)


State one reason why the President is elected indirectly.

If the President were to be elected directly by the people, he could become a rival centre of power to the Council of Ministers. This would be against the parliamentary system with ministerial responsibility.


Mention the different categories of ministers in the Union Council of ministers.

The Council of Ministers is the official name for the body that includes all the Ministers. It usually has 60 to 80 Ministers of different ranks 
(i) Cabinet Ministers are usually top-level leaders of the ruling party or parties who are in-charge of the major ministries. Usually the Cabinet Ministers meet to take decisions in the name of the Council of Ministers. Cabinet is thus the inner ring of the Council of Ministers. It comprises about 20 ministers. 
(ii) Ministers of State with independent charge are usually in-charge of smaller ministries. They participate in the Cabinet meetings only when specially invited. 
(iii) Ministers of State are attached to and required to assist Cabinet Ministers.


Explain any five powers of Lok Sabha.

The power of the House of the People are as under.
(1) Legislative Powers: Main function of fthe House of People is framing of Laws. As per the Constitution, powers of House of People and Council of States are equal in respect of framing of laws but in practice the House of People is more powerful. Generally all important bills are presented only in the House of People.
(2) Financial Powers: The Constitution has made the House of People powerful so far as financial matters are concerned. Finance bills are initiated in the House of People only-Although finance bills are sent to the Council of States after passing by the House of people but the Council of State have to accord sanction to the Finance bills within $$14$$ days.
(3) Control over the Executive: According to the Constitution the Council of Ministers is responsible to the House of the People. The Council of Ministers can be functional till it enjoys the confidence of the House of People. The members of the House of People exercise control over the Government by asking questions in the House, bringing motion of adjournment or no confidence in respect of Government policies.
(4) Amendment in Constitution: The House of People(the Lok Sabha) and the Council of States(the Rajya sabha) together can make amendment in the Constitution.
(5) Election of the President and the Vice President: The President is elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of the elected members of both houses of Parliament and the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States.
(6)  Miscellaneous functions: (a) Lok Sabhya can bring a motion of impeachment of the President.
(b) It can discuss the proposal passed by the Council of States for removal of the Vice President.
(c) It can discuss the proposal for the impeachment of the Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts.
(d) It is necessary for the Lok Sabha (House of People) to confirm the emergency proclaimed by the President within a month otherwise such proclamation shall automatically be nullified.


Under what condition can a non-member of Parliament be made a Minister?

Usually, the members of Parliament, either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, are appointed as ministers. A person who is not a member of either House of Parliament can also be appointed as a minister. 
But within six months, he must become a member (either by election or by nomination) of either House of Parliament, otherwise, he ceases to be a minister.


The Union Executive which consists of the President, Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers is a powerful body in a Parliament Democracy. In this context answer the following questions.
Mention the three categories of Ministers in order of their rank and status.

The council of ministers consists of three categories of ministers, namely, cabinet ministers, ministers of state, and deputy ministers.The difference between them lies in their respective ranks, emoluments, and political importance.
  1. The cabinet ministers head the important ministries of the Central government like home, defence, finance, external affairs and so forth.
  2.  The ministers of state can either be given independent charge of ministries/departments or can be attached to cabinet ministers.
  3.  Next in rank are the deputy ministers. They are not given independent charge of ministries/departments.


What is the maximum number of Ministers that can be included in the Union Council of Ministers ? Who appoints them ? 

The 91st Amendment to the Constitution, which came into effect in 2004 added Clause 1(A) to Article 75 of the Constitution. It limited the size of the Council of Ministers at the Centre and the States to no more than 15 per cent of the numbers in the Lok Sabha or the State Legislature. They are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the Prime minister.


Who administers the oath of office to the Council of Ministers?

The President administers the oath of office and secrecy to the Ministers. The Ministers hold office during the pleasure of the President.


When can the President use his Discretionary power to appoint the Prime Minister?

The President can act on his discretion (that is, without the advice of the ministers) in the appointment of Prime Minister when no party has a clear majority in the Lok Sabha or when the Prime Minister in office dies suddenly and there is no obvious successor.


The Powers and Functions of the Indian Parliament are wide ranging. In this context answer the following:
Mention any two Judicial powers and any two Electoral powers of the Indian Parliament.

The judicial powers and functions of the Parliament include the following:
(a) It can impeach the President and the Vice-President for the violation of the Constitution.
(b) It can punish its members or outsiders for the breach of its privileges or its contempt.
Electoral Powers include:
(a) The Parliament participates in the election of the President (along with the state legislative assemblies) and elects the Vice-President. 
(b) The Parliament is also authorised to make laws to regulate the elections to the offices of President and Vice-President, to both the Houses of Parliament and to both the Houses of the state legislature.


What is meant by 'Collective Responsibility' of the Cabinet?

The fundamental principle underlying the working of the parliamentary system of government is the principle of collective responsibility. Article 75 clearly states that the council of ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. This means that all the ministers own joint responsibility to the Lok Sabha for all their acts of omission and commission. They work as a team and swim or sink together. When the Lok Sabha passes a no-confidence motion against the council of ministers, all the ministers have to resign including those ministers who are from the Rajya Sabha. The principle of collective responsibility also means that the Cabinet decisions bind all cabinet ministers (and other ministers) even if they differed in the cabinet meeting. It is the duty of every minister to stand by cabinet decisions and support them both within and outside the Parliament.


With reference to the Union Parliament, answer the following question:
How many members may be nominated to the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha? Give one reason as to why they may be nominated to the Lok Sabha.

  • The Lok Sabha is the house of the people and consists of a total of 545 members of parliament which includes 2 members nominated by the President. The other 543 members of parliament are elected during the Lok Sabha elections and represent the 543 electoral constituencies of India. Thus, there is one local MP from each constituency who acts as a representative in the Lok Sabha of the parliament.
  • 2 members were nominated from the Anglo Indian community up till 2019. This provision was discontinued.
  • The Rajya Sabha or the council of states gives proportional representation of each Indian state in the parliament. Rajya Sabha members in parliament cannot exceed 250 with 12 members nominated by the President for their expertise in respective fields. The majority of the members of the Rajya Sabha (238) are elected by the legislative state assembly members to represent the parliament at the center.


What is an Ordinance?

An ordinance is an executive order passed by the President of India under Article 123 of the Constitution. It holds the same force and effect as an Act passed by the Parliament. It can only be promulgated when at least one of the Houses of Parliament is not in session and is meant to be used as an emergency power by the Government.


The Union Parliament is the law-making body at the Central level. In this context, briefly describe:
(a) Its power to make laws on subjects mentioned in the Union List and the Concurrent List.
(b) Its Residuary Powers.
(c) Its power to make a law on a matter in the State List.

The Parliament is a legislative organ of the Union. Its primary function is to make laws for the governance of Country. 

a) The seventh schedule in the Constitution provides for three lists i.e, Union List, State List and Concurrent list for making laws by Parliament and State Legislature. Parliament has an exclusive right to make laws on subjects enumerated in the Union List. In Concurrent list, both Parliament and State Legislatures can make laws on the subjects given but if on any subject both Parliament and State legislature make a law then Parliament shall have overriding effect over the law made by state Legislature.

b) The Parliament has the exclusive powers to make laws on the matters that are not listed in either of concurrent or state list.

c)The Parliament is also empowered by the Constitution to make laws on the subjects given in the State list under the following circumstances:
1) When Rajya Sabha passes a resolution with a special majority and declares that a subject is of National Interest.
2)When National  Emergency is in operation or the President's rule is imposed on State.
3)If two or more states make request jointly to the Parliament
4) When parliament considers necessary to give effect to international agreements, treaties, and conventions


Why are the ordinances considered temporary measures?

Every ordinance issued by the President during the recess of the Parliament must be laid before both the houses when it reassembles. They must be enacted into legislation within 6 weeks after Parliament comes back to the session or else they cease to operate on the expiry of 6 weeks. Hence, the maximum life of an ordinance is 6 months and 6 weeks (six months being the maximum gap between the two sessions of parliament). Therefore for a permanent effect, a legislation needs to be passed by the Parliament.


Which emergency is often referred to as President's Rule?

There are three types of emergencies: national emergency, state emergency and financial emergency. State emergency is often referred to as President’s Rule. State emergency is declared under Article 356, in the event when the state government collapses and the constitutional machinery fails in a particular state. It can be imposed for a period of six months and can last only for three years with parliamentary consent required every six months. The Governor, the President’s representative in the state, governs the state under emergency in the name of the President.


When can ordinances be issued by the President?

Article 123 empowers the president to promulgate ordinances during the recess of the Parliament. Ordinances can be issued by the President only when both the Houses of Parliament are not in session or when either of the two houses is not in session. An ordinance can also be issued when only one house is in session because a law can be passed by both the Houses and not by one house alone.


State the Cabinet's role in the formulation of policies of the Government.

The Cabinet is primarily a policy formulating entity and shoulders following responsibilities:
• It discusses and decides all sorts of national and international problems confronting the country.
• The Cabinet directs Parliament for action by suggesting a policy and it gets the approval of its policy with a majority in Parliament.
• The Cabinet decides what Bills shall be promoted in a session of Parliament.
• The Cabinet is responsible for the whole expenditure of the State and for raising necessary revenues to meet it.
• The President makes a large number of appointments on the recommendation of the Cabinet.


Who administers oath of office to the President?

Article 60 deals with the oath or affirmation by the President. The oath of office to the President is administered by the Chief Justice of India and in his absence, by the seniormost judge of the Supreme Court. 


State the difference between the 'Cabinet' and the 'Council of Ministers' with reference to their responsibilities in the government.

Cabinet Minister:
They head the important ministries of the Central government like home, defence, finance, etc. They are members of the cabinet and attend its meetings and play an important role in deciding policies.

Council of Ministers:
It is a wider body consisting of 60-70 ministers. It includes all three categories of ministers- Cabinet ministers, ministers of state and deputy ministers.


The President of India is the head of the Union. In this context explain:
(a) The qualifications for election.
(b) The constitution of Electoral College for his election.
(c) The method of his removal.

  • (a) The qualifications for election are as below:
The candidate must be :
1. a citizen of India 
2.of 35 years of age or above 
3.qualified to become a member of the Lok Sabha
  • (b) The electoral college for his election consists of the elected members of both houses of Parliament, the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies of all States and the elected members of the legislative assemblies of two Union Territories(Puducherry and Delhi).
  • (c) Method of removal:
The President may also be removed before the expiry of the term through impeachment for violating the Constitution of India. 
1. It can be initiated in any house.
2. The charges are contained in a notice that has to be signed by at least one-quarter of the total members of that house. The notice is sent up to the President and 14 days later, it is taken up for consideration.
3. The resolution has to be passed by a two-thirds majority of the total number of members of the originating house. It is then sent to the other house. 
4. The other house investigates the charges that have been made.
5. If the second house also approves the charges made by special majority again, the President stands impeached.


Mention three important features of the Cabinet system of Government.

Features of the Cabinet system of Government:
1. The President is the nominal executive while Prime Minister is the real executive.
2. The party which secures majority seats in Lok Sabha forms the government.
3. Political homogeneity- Usually the members of the council of ministers belong to the same political party and hence the same political ideology.


How is the Prime Minister a link between the Cabinet and the President?

Prime Minister is the principal channel of communication between the president and the council of ministers. As per Article 78, it is his duty:
(a) to communicate to the President all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of the affairs of the union and proposals for legislation;
(b) to furnish such information relating to the administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation as the President may call for; and
(c) if the President so requires, to submit for the consideration of the Council of Ministers any matter on which a decision has been taken by a Minister but which has not been considered by the Council.


What does a Minister affirm under the Oath of Office?

In his oath of office, the minister swears:
1. to bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India.
2. to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India.
3. ton faithfully and conscientiously discharge the duties of his office.
4. to do right to all manner of people in accordance with the Constitution and the law, without fear or favour, affection or ill will.


What are the powers of the Prime Minister as a Chairperson of the Cabinet?

As the Chairperson of the Cabinet, Prime Ministers has the following powers:
 1. He is the principal channel of communication between the president and the council of ministers.
2. He recommends persons who can be appointed as ministers by the president.
3. He presides over the meetings of the council of ministers and influences its decisions.
4. He guides, directs, controls and coordinates the activities of all the ministers.


Mention three ways in which the Constitution ensures the pre-eminent position of the Prime Minister in relation to the Union Council of Ministers.

The Prime Minister enjoys a pre-eminent position in relation to the Union Council of Ministers in the following ways:
1. He recommends persons who can be appointed as ministers by the president.
2. He presides over the meetings of the council of ministers and influences its decisions.
3. He guides, directs, controls and coordinates the activities of all the ministers.


Prime Minister occupies a unique position in the Parliament. How?

The Prime Minister occupies a unique position in the Parliament because of the following reasons:

  • The Prime Minister is the chief spokesperson of the Executive as well as the leader of the Lok Sabha.
  •  The Prime Minister holds the power to dismiss and appoint ministers and can ask a blundering minister to resign. 
  •  The Prime Minister directs as well as defends the policies of the Executive.
  •  The Prime Minister is responsible for intervening in the controversial matters and settling the debate.
  •  The Prime Minister’s resignation automatically dismisses the whole cabinet.


Mention any one important occasion when the President addresses a Joint Session of Parliament.

If there is a deadlock between the two houses while passing an Ordinary bill in the Parliament, the President calls for a joint session of both the houses. 


How does the Parliament keep a check on the Council of Ministers? Mention any three ways which may be adopted by it. 

The Parliament keeps a check on the Council of Ministers through the following:
(a) Question hour is the first hour of every parliamentary sitting. During this time, the members ask questions and ministers usually give answers.
(b) Adjournment motions involve an element of censure against the government. It is to draw the attention of Lok Sabha to a recent matter of urgent public importance having serious consequences.
(c) If the house feels that the government does not enjoy majority, then they can move a 'no-confidence' motion. It can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha. The motion is admitted for discussion when a minimum of 50 members of the house supports the motion. If the motion is passed, the Government is bound to vacate the office.


Explain any three powers of the Parliament.

The Parliament is supreme law making body of the Union. 
1) It can make, amend or repeal law on any subject and can delegate its power of law making to administrative authorities with proper checks and balances
2) The government(executive) is responsible to the Parliament and it keeps supervision on actions of government by several methods.
3) Parliament has power to remove President, Vice President, Judges of Supreme Court and High Courts.


What should be the age required to become the President of India?

A person to be eligible for election as President should fulfill the following qualifications:
1. He should be a citizen of India.
2. He should have completed 35 years of age.
3. He should be qualified for election as a member of the Lok Sabha.
4. He should not hold any office of profit under the Union government or any state government or any local authority or other public authority.


Compare the relative positions of the Rajya Sabha and the United States Senate in their respective systems.

The Rajya Sabha is the upper House of the Indian Legislature (Parliament) and the Senate is the Upper House of the American Legislature (Congress). These Housed represent the states (member states) while lower houses in both legislatures represent constituencies. 
The Representatives of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative assemblies indirectly with the system of Proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote. The members of Senate are elected directly by the citizens of State. 
The seats in the Rajya Sabha are allotted on the basis of the population while the seats in Senate are allotted two members from each state irrespective of the size of the population.
The Senate is relatively Powerful in comparison to Rajya Sabha. The strength of Rajya Sabha is greater than the Senate.


Explain how the President of the United States is elected.

The President of the United States is elected not directly by the people but by the electors by the process of the electoral college. The Parties choose their Candidate who campaigns throughout the country. The General election held in November where people cast their vote for electors I.e., a body of persons which will choose the President. Electoral college consists of electors based on each state's total number of representation in Congress.


Class 9 Civics Extra Questions