Study Guides/Civics/Article 78 of the Indian Constitution
Study Guide · Civics

Article 78: Duties of the Prime Minister

In India's parliamentary system, the President is the nominal head of state, while the Prime Minister is the real executive head. Article 78 defines the critical communication channel between the Prime Minister and the President.

Question (Click to Flip)

Can the President ask for information about a specific government policy?

Answer

Yes. Under Article 78(b), the President has the constitutional right to call for any information regarding the administration of the Union, and the PM is duty-bound to provide it.

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Key Facts

Article 78 acts as a constitutional bridge connecting the Cabinet (led by the PM) to the President.

It ensures that the President is kept fully informed about all government affairs, enabling them to exercise their right to 'advise, encourage, and warn' the government.

The President relies entirely on the PM for official government information.

1. Duties of the Prime Minister under Article 78

It shall be the duty of the Prime Minister:

  • To Communicate: 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.
  • To Furnish Information: To furnish such information relating to the administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation as the President may call for.
  • To Submit for Consideration: If the President 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 whole council.

Questions and Answers

Can the President ask for information about a specific government policy?+

Yes. Under Article 78(b), the President has the constitutional right to call for any information regarding the administration of the Union, and the PM is duty-bound to provide it.

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