UPSC Prelims PYQ 2015: Executive power and Civil Services Board — correctness

Consider the following statements:

1. The Executive Power of the Union of India is vested in the Prime Minister.
2. The Prime Minister is the ex-officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect

• Executive power of the Union is vested in the President, and is exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with the Constitution.

Statement 2 is incorrect

• The Cabinet Secretariat functions directly under the Prime Minister. The administrative head of the Secretariat is the Cabinet Secretary, who is also the ex officio Chairman of the Civil Services Board.

Answer: (d) Neither 1 nor 2; Difficulty Level: Easy