Union Executive & Parliamen

Definition

The Union Executive and Parliament form the core of India's parliamentary democracy. The Union Executive consists of the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, and Attorney General, while Parliament comprises the President, Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha.

Key Points

• Union Executive: Real executive power vests in the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, while the President is the nominal (de jure) head.
• Parliamentary Form: Executive is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha (Lower House).
• Lok Sabha: Directly elected house with a maximum strength of 550 members; represents the people of India.
• Rajya Sabha: Indirectly elected upper house representing the states and union territories; permanent body not subject to dissolution.
• Legislative Process: Ordinary bills require a simple majority in both houses, while Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.

Why Important for Exams

• Frequent questions in UPSC, SSC, and State PCS regarding qualifications, impeachment processes, and ordinance-making powers.
• High-yield area for parliamentary procedures like Question Hour, Zero Hour, and types of motions (No-Confidence, Censure).
• Constitutional articles governing the legislature and executive are direct static questions.

Important Facts / Landmark Case / Articles / Years

• Article 52-78: Deals with the Union Executive in Part V of the Constitution.
• Article 79-122: Deals with Parliament in Part V of the Constitution.
• Article 75(3): Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
• Article 108: Provision for a Joint Sitting of both houses, summoned by the President and presided over by the Speaker of Lok Sabha.

Remember

Use the acronym "SERP" to remember the core articles for Parliament: Structure (Art 79), Executive/Rajya Sabha (Art 80), R Lok Sabha (Art 81).

Related Topics

• President of India
• Prime Minister and Council of Ministers
• Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha Speakers
• Parliamentary Committees
• Legislative Procedures and Bills
• Anti-Defection Law (10th Schedule)