Lesson 3.2: Union Government – President, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary
The Union Government of India operates under the Constitution, ensuring governance at the national level with legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
President of India:
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Role: Constitutional head of the state, guardian of the Constitution.
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Election: Indirectly by an Electoral College (Parliament + State Legislatures).
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Powers:
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Executive: Appoints Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Governors.
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Legislative: Summons Parliament, gives assent to bills.
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Emergency: Can proclaim National, State, or Financial Emergency.
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Prime Minister of India:
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Role: Head of government, real executive power resides here.
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Responsibilities: Formulates policies, oversees administration, represents India internationally.
Parliament of India:
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Bicameral: Lok Sabha (House of the People) & Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
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Functions: Law-making, budget approval, oversight of executive.
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Key Features: Question Hour, Zero Hour, Parliamentary Committees.
Judiciary:
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Supreme Court: Apex court, guardian of Constitution, judicial review.
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High Courts & Subordinate Courts: State-level judiciary and district-level justice delivery.
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Powers: Judicial review, interpretation of laws, protection of Fundamental Rights.
Key Points for Revision:
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President – constitutional head, powers, and election
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Prime Minister – executive head, policy implementation
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Parliament – bicameral structure, legislative functions
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Judiciary – Supreme Court, judicial review, Fundamental Rights protection
Example Question (Prelims Practice):
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“Who appoints the Chief Justice of India?” → President of India
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“Which house of Parliament represents the states?” → Rajya Sabha
