Prime Minister’s Power to Select Ministers — UPSC Prelims PYQ 1996
Which one of the following statements is correct? The Prime Minister of India:
- Is free to choose ministers only from among Members of Parliament
- Can choose ministers after counselling by the President
- Has full discretion in the choice of persons to serve as ministers
- Has only limited powers due to discretionary powers of the President
Explanation
Option (c) is correct
- Under Article 75(1) of the Indian Constitution, the President appoints ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister. In practice, this means the Prime Minister has decisive authority in selecting members of the Council of Ministers.
Answer: (c) Has full discretion in the choice of persons to serve as ministers
