Which Article of the Constitution is related to duties of Prime Minister?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

Article 78 of the Indian Constitution is explicitly dedicated to defining the **duties of the Prime Minister**. This article acts as a vital link, establishing the channel of communication between the Council of Ministers (headed by the Prime Minister) and the President of India. The primary duties outlined in Article 78 require the Prime Minister to furnish all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation to the President. Furthermore, the Prime Minister is obligated to provide any information regarding the administration or proposals for legislation that the President may call for. A critical third provision allows the President, if necessary, to require the Prime Minister to submit any matter on which a Minister has taken a decision—but which has not been considered by the Council of Ministers—for the consideration of the entire Council. In essence, Article 78 ensures the President is kept fully informed of all major executive and legislative business, cementing the PM’s role as the chief spokesperson and bridge between the executive wing and the ceremonial head of state.

The incorrect option is 1:
Article **77** is not related to the specific duties of the Prime Minister, but rather to the **Conduct of Business of the Government of India**. This Article mandates that all executive action of the Government of India shall be formally expressed to be taken in the name of the President. It further empowers the President to make rules for the more convenient transaction of business and for the allocation of business among Ministers. While this article deals with the operation of the government, which the Prime Minister supervises, its focus is on procedural formality and administrative legitimacy, not the PM's inherent duties of communication with the President. Therefore, while closely related to the executive, it does not detail the PM’s specific informational obligations.

The incorrect option is 3:
Article **79** addresses the **Constitution of Parliament**. This article states that the Parliament of the Union shall consist of the President and two Houses, known respectively as the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) and the House of the People (Lok Sabha). This provision is foundational to the legislative structure of India, clearly establishing the composition of the highest law-making body. Since the question specifically asks for the duties of the Prime Minister, a provision concerning the composition of the legislature is factually incorrect in this context. The PM is the head of the executive, and while they are a member of Parliament, Article 79 describes the institution itself, not the PM's functions.

The incorrect option is 4:
Article **80** is concerned with the **composition of the Council of States (Rajya Sabha)**. It lays down the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha, the manner in which members are elected by the State legislative assemblies, and the process of nomination of twelve members by the President who have special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service. Like Article 79, this article pertains solely to the composition and structural details of a House of Parliament. It bears no direct relevance to the operational duties and responsibilities of the Prime Minister as the head of the government's executive function.