Questions and Answers on Council of Ministers
1. Is the Council of Ministers the same as the Cabinet?
No, the Cabinet is not the same as the Council of Ministers. Though the terms are often used interchangeably, there is a significant difference between the two. The Council of ministers is a wider body while the Cabinet is a smaller (yet important) body. Their composition, role, and functions make them different.
2. Does the Consitution of India contain any special provision regarding the number of council ministers?
Though the constitution doesn’t clearly mention the number, Article 75 says that the number of ministers shall not exceed 15% of the total strength of Lok Sabha. This provision was added by the 91st Amendment Act of 2003.
3. Are central council ministers answerable to the court regarding their advice tendered to the President?
No, the courts are barred from inquiring the ministers about their advice given to the President.
Appointment and Functions of The Council of Ministers
In our parliamentary system of government, the President is only the nominal head whereas all his powers are exercised by the Council of Ministers, which the Prime Minister heads. Although the principles of the parliamentary system of government are not provided in detail in our constitution, Articles 74 & 75 discuss them in a general manner.
Article 74 talks about the status of the Council of Ministers while Article 75 deals with the appointment, eligibility, tenure, responsibility, and salaries of the ministers.
Table of Content
- What is The Council of Ministers?
- Composition of The Council of Ministers
- Appointment of The Ministers
- Responsibilities of Ministers
- Important Constitutional Provisions Related to Council of Ministers