Executive - Class 11 Political Science - Chapter 4 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
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Extra Questions - Executive | Indian Constitution at Work | Political Science | Class 11
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A parliamentary executive means:
a. Executive where there is a parliament
b. Executive elected by the parliament
c. Where the parliament functions as the Executive
d. Executive that is dependent on support of the majority in the parliament
The correct answer is:
d. Executive that is dependent on support of the majority in the parliament
In a parliamentary system, the executive (Prime Minister and Cabinet) must maintain the support of the majority in the legislature (parliament) to remain in power.
Read this dialogue. Which argument do you agree with? Why?
Amit: Looking at the constitutional provisions, it seems that the President is only a rubber stamp.
Shama: The President appoints the Prime Minister. So, he must have the powers to remove the Prime Minister as well.
Rajesh: We don't need a President. After the election, the Parliament can meet and elect a leader to be the Prime Minister.
I agree with Shama's argument. While it might seem that the President is merely a ceremonial figurehead acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers, the President does have significant roles and some discretionary powers. For instance, the President appoints the Prime Minister, especially crucial during situations where no party has a clear majority in the Lok Sabha. This responsibility necessitates careful judgment and underscores the President’s influence. Additionally, the President has the power to send back advice for reconsideration, can withhold assent to bills, and, in unique circumstances, plays a pivotal role in maintaining the balance and stability of the nation’s political landscape. Thus, while the President's powers may often be exercised on ministerial advice, the institution holds more substantial and nuanced authority than being a 'rubber stamp'. Hence, Shama's perspective highlights the nuanced and crucial role of the President beyond mere formality.
Match the following
i. Works within the particular State in which recruited | a. Indian Foreign Service |
ii. Works in any central government office located either at the national capital or elsewhere in the country | b. State Civil Services |
iii. Works in a particular State to which allotted; can also be sent on deputation to the centre | c. All India Services |
iv. Works in Indian missions abroad | d. Central Services |
Description | Match |
---|---|
i. Works within the particular State in which recruited | b. State Civil Services |
ii. Works in any central government office located either at the national capital or elsewhere in the country | d. Central Services |
iii. Works in a particular State to which allotted; can also be sent on deputation to the centre | c. All India Services |
iv. Works in Indian missions abroad | a. Indian Foreign Service |
Identify the ministry which may have released the following news items. Would this be a ministry of the central government or the State government? Why?
a. An official release said that in 2004-05 the Tamil Nadu Textbooks Corporation would release new versions for standards VII, X and XI.
b. A new railway loop line bypassing the crowded TiruvallurChennai section to help iron ore exporters. The new line, likely to be about $80 \mathrm{~km}$ long, will branch off at Puttur and then reach Athipattu near the port.
c. The three-member sub-divisional committee formed to verify suicide by farmers in Ramayampet mandal has found that the two farmers who committed suicide this month have had economic problems due to failure of crops.
a. An official release said that in 2004-05 the Tamil Nadu Textbooks Corporation would release new versions for standards VII, X and XI.
This news item is related to education.
The likely ministry: Ministry of School Education.
This would be a ministry of the State government because education, especially school education, is primarily managed at the state level in India.
b. A new railway loop line bypassing the crowded Tiruvallur-Chennai section to help iron ore exporters. The new line, likely to be about 80 km long, will branch off at Puttur and then reach Athipattu near the port.
This news item is related to railway infrastructure.
The likely ministry: Ministry of Railways.
This would be a ministry of the Central government because the Indian Railways is managed by the central government.
c. The three-member sub-divisional committee formed to verify suicide by farmers in Ramayampet mandal has found that the two farmers who committed suicide this month have had economic problems due to failure of crops.
This news item is related to agriculture and farmer welfare.
The likely ministry: Ministry of Agriculture.
This would be a ministry of the State government because agricultural issues, especially those specific to farmers within a state, are managed by the state government.
While appointing the Prime Minister, the President selects
a. Leader of the largest party in the Lok Sabha
b. Leader of the largest party in the alliance which secures a majority in the Lok Sabha
c. The leader of the largest party in the Rajya Sabha
d. Leader of the alliance or party that has the support of the majority in Lok Sabha
The correct answer is:
d. Leader of the alliance or party that has the support of the majority in Lok Sabha
As outlined in the chapter, the President appoints the Prime Minister who has the support of the majority in the Lok Sabha.
Read this discussion and say which of these statements applies most to India.
Alok: Prime Minister is like a king, he decides everything in our country.
Shekhar: Prime Minister is only 'first among equals', he does not have any special powers. All ministers and the PM have similar powers.
Bobby: Prime Minister has to consider the expectations of the party members and other supporters of the government. But after all, the Prime Minister has a greater say in policy making and in choosing the ministers.
The statement that applies most to India is:
Bobby: Prime Minister has to consider the expectations of the party members and other supporters of the government. But after all, the Prime Minister has a greater say in policy making and in choosing the ministers.
This reflects the reality that while the Prime Minister must consider various political interests, he/she holds a significant amount of power in policy-making and the selection of ministers.
Why do you think is the advice of the Council of Ministers binding on the President? Give your answer in not more than 100 words.
The advice of the Council of Ministers is binding on the President to ensure that the President's formal powers are exercised democratically and remain in line with the decisions of the elected representatives. Article 74(1) of the Constitution explicitly states this binding nature, reinforcing parliamentary supremacy and maintaining the balance of power within the government. This helps prevent any authoritarian drift and ensures that the executive branch operates based on collective decision-making rather than individual discretion.
The parliamentary system of executive vests many powers in the legislature for controlling the executive. Why, do you think, is it so necessary to control the executive?
In a parliamentary system of executive, it is necessary to control the executive to ensure accountability, transparency, and responsiveness to the public. Here are key reasons for this necessity:
Prevention of Abuse of Power: The executive wields significant powers, and unchecked authority could lead to misuse or abuse of these powers.
Democratic Accountability: By keeping the executive accountable to the legislature, which represents the electorate, the system ensures that the government remains sensitive to public expectations.
Ensuring Lawful Governance: Legislative control helps ensure that the executive acts within the framework of the Constitution and the laws passed by the legislature.
Flexibility and Responsiveness: Regular supervision and the threat of ministerial resignation in case of lost confidence helps keep the executive responsive and adaptable to changing needs and circumstances.
Prevention of Personality Cult: In a parliamentary system, collective responsibility and legislative control act as checks against personality cults, where too much power is concentrated in one individual.
Balanced Distribution of Power: The separation of powers and the system of checks and balances maintain a healthy balance among the various organs of government, ensuring that none becomes too powerful.
Thus, legislative control over the executive helps maintain the democratic integrity and effectiveness of the government.
It is said that there is too much political interference in the working of the administrative machinery. It is suggested that there should be more and more autonomous agencies which do not have to answer to the ministers.
a. Do you think this will make administration more peoplefriendly?
b. Do you think this will make administration more efficient?
c. Does democracy mean full control of elected representatives over the administration?
a. Establishing more autonomous agencies may have both positive and negative impacts on making the administration more people-friendly. Autonomous agencies may be more insulated from political pressures and thus may operate in a more impartial and professional manner. However, lack of direct accountability to elected representatives might reduce responsiveness to public needs.
b. Increased autonomy might lead to greater efficiency in some cases since these agencies can focus on their missions without political interference. However, it is crucial to ensure that these agencies still remain accountable to a regulatory body to prevent inefficiencies and misuse of power.
c. In a democracy, while elected representatives hold the ultimate oversight and accountability mechanisms over the administration, it's essential to balance political control with bureaucratic autonomy for effective governance. This allows professional and non-partisan administration while maintaining democratic control and accountability.
Write an essay of two hundred words on the proposal to have an elected administration instead of an appointed administration.
The proposal to transition from an appointed administration to an elected administration brings forward a significant shift in how governance and administrative accountability are perceived. Proponents argue that democratic oversight can be enhanced through elections, ensuring that officials are directly accountable to the public. An elected administration would ostensibly lead to greater responsiveness to the needs and concerns of citizens, as these officials would be compelled to act in ways that secure voter approval for their continued tenure.
However, there are critical concerns associated with this approach. Administrative roles often require specialized knowledge and skills, which are typically ensured through rigorous, merit-based selection processes in an appointed system. Introducing elections could politicize the bureaucracy, leading to administrative instability, frequent policy shifts, and a focus on short-term popularity over long-term planning. Moreover, public elections might prioritize charisma and populism over expertise and qualifications, potentially compromising the efficiency and effectiveness of governance.
A possible middle ground could involve enhanced transparency and accountability measures within the existing system. By implementing stronger oversight mechanisms, such as public performance reviews and transparent reporting requirements, the benefits of an accountable administration could be achieved without sacrificing the professional integrity and stability that an appointed system offers. Overall, while the idea of an elected administration aims to democratize governance, its practical implications necessitate a cautious and balanced approach.
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Understanding the Role of the Executive in Class 11 Political Studies
Introduction to the Executive in Class 11 Political Studies
The executive is an essential part of the government, tasked primarily with the implementation of laws and the administration of daily governance. Alongside the legislature and the judiciary, the executive ensures that the government functions smoothly and efficiently, maintaining law and order while working towards the welfare of the people.
Defining the Executive
Explanation of the Executive in Political Science
In political science, the term "executive" refers to a body or group of individuals responsible for executing and enforcing laws. This includes taking policy decisions and supervising routine administrative functions. Essentially, the executive is the part of the government responsible for putting laws into action.
Case Study: School Administration as an Example
Consider the administration of a school. The principal takes important decisions and oversees the daily functioning, while teachers and other staff implement those decisions. Similarly, the executive in a government takes policy decisions and ensures their implementation through various administrative mechanisms.
Functions and Roles of the Executive
Implementation of Laws and Policies
The primary role of the executive is to implement the laws and policies adopted by the legislature. This ensures that the decisions made by the legislative body are executed efficiently and effectively.
Policy Framing Involvement
The executive also plays a significant role in the framing of policies. While the legislature passes laws, the executive often provides the necessary input and framework for these policies, especially in terms of practical implementation.
Types of Executive Systems
Presidential System Overview
In a presidential system, the president acts as both the head of state and the head of government, possessing substantial executive powers. Countries such as the United States and Brazil follow this system.
Parliamentary System Overview
In contrast, in a parliamentary system, the executive powers are vested in the Prime Minister, who is the head of government, while the head of state may be a monarch or president with primarily ceremonial roles. Countries like the United Kingdom and India adopt this system.
Semi-Presidential System Overview
A semi-presidential system blends elements of both the presidential and parliamentary systems. It typically features both a president and a prime minister who share executive responsibilities. Examples include France and Russia.
The Executive in India
Structure of the Indian Executive
The executive in India is structured with the President as the formal head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The President's powers are mostly exercised on the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister.
Role and Powers of the President
The President of India holds extensive executive, legislative, judicial, and emergency powers but exercises them primarily under the advice of the Council of Ministers. The President is elected indirectly by an electoral college and serves a five-year term.
Role and Powers of the Prime Minister
The Prime Minister is the chief advisor to the President and the head of the Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in deciding government policies and their implementation, wielding significant influence over the executive branch.
Functioning of the Council of Ministers
The Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, is responsible for decision-making and implementation of policies. It comprises cabinet ministers, ministers of state, and deputy ministers, each assigned specific portfolios.
graph TB
A[Legislature] -->|Makes laws| B[Executive]
B -->|Implements and enforces laws| C[Judiciary]
C -->|Interprets laws| A
Administrative Machinery
Role of Civil Servants
Civil servants are permanent employees of the government who assist ministers in formulating and implementing policies. They play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of the government machinery.
Mechanisms of Implementation
The executive implements laws and policies through a structured administrative machinery that liaises between different departments and the public, ensuring that government services reach the citizens effectively.
Political Accountability and Neutrality
Civil servants are expected to be politically neutral and are accountable to both the elected government and the legislature. This ensures that they implement policies fairly, regardless of political changes.
Discretionary Powers of the President
Veto Power
The President of India has the power to withhold or refuse assent to bills passed by Parliament. While this veto power is limited, it provides an essential check on the legislative process.
Decision-Making Authority in Special Circumstances
In situations where no party has a clear majority, the President can exercise discretion in appointing the Prime Minister. This shows the President's crucial role in ensuring stable governance.
Importance of the Executive in Governance
Role in Maintaining Law and Order
The executive ensures the maintenance of law and order, implementing policies and laws that protect citizens' rights and promote social welfare.
Coordination with Legislature and Judiciary
The executive works in close coordination with the legislature and judiciary to ensure a harmonious and balanced government. This collaboration is crucial for effective governance.
Impact on Governance and Administration
The executive's decisions and actions have a profound impact on governance and administration. Effective execution of policies leads to better public services and enhances the quality of life for citizens.
Conclusion
The executive is a powerful branch of the government responsible for implementing laws and policies. Understanding its structure, functions, and interactions with other government organs is crucial for comprehending the workings of a government.
Final Thought
The study of the executive branch in Class 11 political studies provides vital insights into how governments operate, making it an essential part of the curriculum for students aiming to understand the real-world implications of political systems.
This comprehensive outline helps Class 11 students grasp the importance and functioning of the executive, aiding them in their academic pursuits and future civic understanding.
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