All questions of Prime Minister for UPSC CSE Exam

Understanding Presidential Discretion in Appointing the Prime Minister
The President of India holds significant powers, particularly in the appointment of the Prime Minister. However, this discretion is exercised under specific circumstances.
Context of Discretion
- The President's role is largely ceremonial, but they can exercise discretion in certain scenarios.
- The appointment of the Prime Minister is typically based on the leader of the party or coalition that holds the majority in the Lok Sabha.
Scenario for Discretion: Majority Party Fails to Nominate
- The correct answer, option 'C', indicates that the President can exercise discretion when the majority party fails to nominate a leader for Prime Minister.
- This situation often arises in cases of political instability or a hung parliament where no party has a clear majority.
Reasons for Exercise of Discretion
- In the absence of a clear leader, the President must ensure that a capable individual is appointed to maintain the functioning of the government.
- This discretion helps preserve the democratic process and ensures that governance continues without a significant power vacuum.
Other Options Explained
- Option 'A': If the incumbent Prime Minister resigns, the President typically invites the leader of the majority party to form the government.
- Option 'B': A Prime Minister being a member of the Rajya Sabha does not hinder their appointment; they can still be appointed as long as they are a member of Parliament.
- Option 'D': If the Prime Minister loses support in state legislatures, it does not directly affect their appointment unless it leads to a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha.
Conclusion
The President's discretion is a vital element in ensuring political stability and effective governance, particularly when there is uncertainty regarding leadership.

Significance of "First Among Equals"
The phrase "first among equals" (Latin: "primus inter pares") is a critical concept in understanding the role of the Prime Minister within a parliamentary system. This term highlights the unique position of the Prime Minister while emphasizing the collective responsibility of the Cabinet.
Authority with Equality
- The Prime Minister is recognized as the leader of the government but operates within a framework where all Cabinet ministers are technically equal.
- This means that while the Prime Minister leads discussions and makes key decisions, they do not hold absolute power over their ministers.
Collective Responsibility
- The Cabinet, including the Prime Minister, shares collective responsibility for government actions and policies. This fosters collaboration and accountability among ministers.
- The Prime Minister must often seek consensus and build coalitions within the Cabinet, reinforcing the idea that they are first among equals.
Decision-Making Dynamics
- The Prime Minister's role includes guiding the Cabinet and setting the agenda, but this role is balanced by the need to respect the views and contributions of fellow ministers.
- This dynamic ensures that decisions are made collectively, promoting a more democratic approach to governance.
Implications for Governance
- The concept encourages a collegial atmosphere where ideas are debated and discussed, leading to more thoughtful and comprehensive policymaking.
- It also serves as a check on the Prime Minister’s power, as they must consider the interests and opinions of their colleagues to maintain support and stability within the government.
In summary, the term "first among equals" encapsulates the dual nature of the Prime Minister's role, combining authority with a commitment to equality and collective decision-making within the Cabinet.

Understanding the Prime Minister's Options When Losing Majority Support
When a Prime Minister loses majority support in the Lok Sabha, the situation can lead to a political crisis. Here are the options typically available:
Option A: Dissolve the Lok Sabha
- The Prime Minister can recommend to the President to dissolve the Lok Sabha.
- This option usually leads to fresh elections.
- However, it is not a guaranteed action and can depend on the President's discretion.
Option B: Request to Dissolve the Council of Ministers
- The Prime Minister can request the President to dissolve the Council of Ministers.
- This is not a standard practice and would not resolve the issue of majority support.
Option C: Resignation from Office
- This is often the most prudent option when a Prime Minister loses majority support.
- Resigning allows for the formation of a new government, either through elections or coalition talks.
- It acknowledges the loss of confidence from the Lok Sabha, paving the way for political stability.
Option D: Dismiss the President
- This option is not available to the Prime Minister.
- The President is elected by the electoral college and cannot be dismissed by the Prime Minister.
Conclusion
The correct answer is option 'C' as it is the most constitutionally appropriate course of action when a Prime Minister no longer commands majority support in the Lok Sabha. Resignation facilitates a legitimate political process to restore governance, reflecting the democratic principle of accountability.

Role of the Prime Minister in Diplomatic Negotiations with Foreign Countries
The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in diplomatic negotiations with foreign countries. This aspect of their role involves representing the country on the international stage and engaging in discussions and agreements with leaders of other nations. Here are some key points to understand the significance of the Prime Minister's role in diplomatic negotiations:

1. Foreign Policy Formulation:
The Prime Minister is responsible for formulating foreign policy, which outlines the country's stance on various international issues. They work closely with the Ministry of External Affairs to develop strategies that promote the country's interests and maintain peaceful relations with other nations.

2. Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements:
The Prime Minister engages in bilateral talks with leaders of other countries to discuss mutual concerns, trade agreements, security issues, and cultural exchanges. They also participate in multilateral forums such as the United Nations, G20, and other international organizations to address global challenges collectively.

3. Crisis Management:
During times of international crises or conflicts, the Prime Minister plays a crucial role in representing the country's interests and negotiating for peaceful resolutions. They work with other world leaders to find diplomatic solutions and prevent escalation of tensions.

4. Promoting Trade and Investment:
One of the key responsibilities of the Prime Minister in diplomatic negotiations is to promote trade and investment opportunities for the country. They participate in trade summits, economic forums, and business delegations to attract foreign investments and boost economic growth.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister's role in diplomatic negotiations with foreign countries is essential for safeguarding national interests, fostering international cooperation, and promoting peace and prosperity on the global stage.

After being appointed, the Prime Minister is required to seek a vote of confidence in the House within a month. This vote of confidence ensures that the Prime Minister has the support of the majority in the Parliament to continue in office and carry out their duties effectively.

In a parliamentary system, the President is considered the nominal executive, representing the ceremonial and symbolic head of the state. On the other hand, the Prime Minister holds the role of the real executive, responsible for the day-to-day functioning of the government and decision-making. This distinction highlights the division between the head of state and the head of government.

Role of the President in the appointment of the Prime Minister:
The President plays a crucial role in the appointment of the Prime Minister in a parliamentary system of government. The correct answer is option 'B', which states that the President appoints the Prime Minister based on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers.

Explanation:

Recommendation of the Council of Ministers:
- In a parliamentary system, the Prime Minister is the head of the government and is usually the leader of the majority party in the parliament.
- After a general election or in case of the resignation of the previous Prime Minister, the President typically invites the leader of the majority party in the parliament to form the government.
- The Council of Ministers, which consists of senior government officials and ministers, recommends the name of the Prime Minister to the President.
- The President then appoints the individual as the Prime Minister based on this recommendation.

Importance of Council of Ministers:
- The Council of Ministers plays a vital role in the functioning of the government and advises the President on important matters related to governance.
- The recommendation of the Council of Ministers ensures that the Prime Minister is chosen based on the support of the majority party in the parliament, which is crucial for the stability of the government.

Consultation with Political Parties:
- While the President appoints the Prime Minister based on the recommendation of the Council of Ministers, they may also consult with the leaders of other political parties to ensure consensus and cooperation in the government.
In conclusion, the President's role in the appointment of the Prime Minister is significant as it ensures that the head of the government is chosen based on the support of the majority party in the parliament and in consultation with other political parties for a stable and effective government.

The Prime Minister advises the President on important appointments like the Attorney General of India (AGI) and the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). While the President formally appoints these officials, the Prime Minister's recommendation holds significant weight in the decision-making process.

The Prime Minister advises the President on matters related to the summoning and proroguing of Parliament sessions. This means that the Prime Minister plays a crucial role in determining when the Parliament will convene and when its sessions will conclude.

The Prime Minister takes an oath to uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India, bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution, discharge their duties conscientiously, and do right by all people according to the Constitution and the law.