What is Article 78 of Indian constitution |
Article 78 of the Indian Constitution outlines the duties of the Prime Minister in relation to the President of India. It ensures that the President is kept informed about the functioning of the Union Government.
📜 Text of Article 78 (Simplified)
The Prime Minister shall:
🔹 (a) Communicate with the President
Keep the President informed of all decisions taken by the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of the Union.
🔹 (b) Provide Information
Provide the President with any information that he may request about government affairs and decisions.
🔹 (c) Refer Issues for Council Discussion
If the President wants any matter to be considered by the Council of Ministers, the Prime Minister must place it before the Council for discussion.
✅ Explanation of Article 78
Duty | Explanation |
---|---|
Keep informed | The PM must regularly update the President about all major government decisions. |
Respond to requests | If the President asks for more details or clarification, the PM must provide it. |
Refer matters | The President can ask the PM to bring a matter before the Council of Ministers. |
🔍 Purpose of Article 78
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To maintain transparency and communication between the President (constitutional head) and the Prime Minister (executive head).
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Ensures the President is not kept in the dark about government functioning, even though he acts on advice.
🧾 Real Example
If the government decides on a major issue like emergency declaration, major policy reform, or international treaty, the PM must inform the President.
📌 Summary of Article 78
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Applies to | Prime Minister |
Responsibility | To inform and update the President about Union Government affairs |
President’s right | Can ask for details and refer issues for ministerial discussion |
Ensures | Smooth coordination between executive and constitutional head |
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