Indian Polity & Constitution Module
Union Executive & The Parliament of India
The Union Executive of India comprises the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, and the Attorney General. Under Article 53, executive power is vested in the President, who acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister (Article 74). The Parliament of India is a bicameral legislature consisting of the President, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). Rajya Sabha is a permanent continuing chamber representing the states, whereas Lok Sabha is directly elected by adult suffrage. Legislative procedures involve ordinary bills, money bills (governed exclusively by Article 110), and constitutional amendments under Article 368.
Key Concepts & Examination Highlights
- The President of India is elected by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both Houses of Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies.
- Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha upon the prior recommendation of the President under Article 110.
- A joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament is summoned by the President under Article 108 and presided over by the Speaker of Lok Sabha.
- The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) consists of 22 members (15 Lok Sabha, 7 Rajya Sabha) and examines the reports of the CAG.
Curriculum & Reference Sources: Constitution of India (Articles 52–123), Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in Lok Sabha, Subhash Kashyap's 'Our Parliament'.