Westminster model of Cabinet form of government
It is the system of government in which the executive is responsible to the legislature. It originated in the United Kingdom and adopted by several countries, like India, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Prime Minister
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- Prime Minister is the real executive (de facto).
- He is the head of the government.
- The PM is appointed by the President as per Article 75.
- Recommends ministers for appointment.
- Chairman of NITI Aayog, National Integration Council, Inter-State Council, etc.
- Lord Morely: PM as ‘primus inter pares’ (first among equals) and ‘key stone of the cabinet arch’.
Council of Ministers (CoMs)
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- Article 74 – Council of Ministers aids and advises the President.
- President appoints CoMs on advice of PM.
- Ministers take an oath of office and secrecy administered by the President.
- Collective Responsibility – Entire Council of Ministers is responsible to Lok Sabha
- Individual Responsibility– Ministers hold office during pleasure of President.
- Composition:
- Cabinet Ministers – Head key ministries (home, defence, finance, etc.).
- Ministers of State – May have independent charge or assist Cabinet Ministers.
- Deputy Ministers – Assist Cabinet/State Ministers, no independent charge.
- Parliamentary Secretaries – Assist senior ministers (not appointed since 1967).
- Deputy Prime Minister – Occasionally appointed for political reasons.
