VerifiedHint: The Union Executive is a powerful body in a Parliamentary Democracy. It consists of the President, Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers. There are three categories of Council of Ministers according to their rank and status.
Complete answer:
The Council of Ministers is led by the Prime Minister. This council includes all the ministers. It is composed of a total of 60 to 80 ministers of different ranks. There are three categories of Council of Ministers, which are:
- Cabinet Ministers: The cabinet is the real head of the government. It is the inner circle of the Council. The Cabinet consists of 20 ministers. These Ministers are the top-level leaders of the ruling party or parties. They are also known as senior ministers. They are in charge of major ministries. The important portfolios are held by them. The major policies and programs of the government are determined by these Cabinet Ministers. They attend crucial meetings and play an important role in the policy formation of the country.
- Ministers of State: Ministers of State are known as the junior ministers. They may or may not be independent. If they are not given independent charge of the ministry, they are supposed to report to the Cabinet Minister and work under him. They are not members of the cabinet hence not entitled to attend the cabinet meetings unless they are specially invited.
- Deputy Ministers: They assist the Cabinet Minister. But they have less responsibility as compared to Ministers of State and do all the things which are said by the cabinet ministers. They help Ministers of State and Cabinet Ministers in their administrative, political and parliamentary duties.
Note: The council of ministers of the country actually exercises executive authority and helps in the functioning of the government. A minister is said to be appointed by the President of India on the recommendations of the Prime Minister as per Article 75.
