Demystifying the Nature of Advice, Appointments, Oath, Salary, & Responsibilities of Indian Ministers

Introduction

In Indian Parliamentary system, Ministers are the group of a few people who have authority on such ministries which controls working of entire country by many aspects. As a student of polity, it's important for us to know about the Nature of advice, appointments, Oath, Salary and responsibilities of Indian Ministers.

If you are here for gaining information related to the same, then please be with us till the end of this article. In this article, we are going to provide you all the related information about the same.

So, let's start-

Nature of Advice of Indian Ministers in Parliament

The nature of advice given by Indian Ministers in Parliament is primarily of two types:

Political Advice

As elected representatives of the people, Ministers provide political advice to the Parliament on matters of national interest. This includes matters such as policy decisions, legislation, and important issues facing the country.

Technical Advice

Ministers may also provide technical advice on matters related to their respective portfolios. For example, the Minister of Finance may provide technical advice on matters related to the budget, while the Minister of External Affairs may provide technical advice on matters related to foreign policy.

The advice given by Ministers in Parliament is considered to be of great importance, as it is based on their experience, knowledge, and expertise in their respective fields. The advice may be in the form of statements, answers to questions raised by Members of Parliament, or during debates on various issues.

Appointments of Indian Ministers in Parliament

In India, Ministers are appointed to the Parliament through a process known as Ministerial appointment. The process involves several steps, as outlined below:

Step-1: Selection of Ministers

The selection of Ministers is typically done by the Prime Minister, in consultation with other senior members of the ruling party or coalition. The selection process takes into account various factors such as seniority, experience, expertise, and political considerations.

Step-2: Swearing-in Ceremony

Once the Ministers have been selected, they are formally appointed by the President of India, who administers the oath of office and secrecy to them. The swearing-in ceremony is typically held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence of the President.

Step-3: Allocation of Portfolios

After the swearing-in ceremony, the Prime Minister allocates portfolios to each Minister. The allocation of portfolios is based on the Minister's experience, expertise, and the needs of the government. The Prime Minister may also make changes to the portfolio allocation as and when required.

Step-4: Tabling of Papers

Once the Ministers have been appointed and allocated portfolios, they are required to table papers related to their respective portfolios in the Parliament. These papers may include policy statements, reports, and other important documents.

Step-5: Question Hour

Ministers are also required to attend the Question Hour sessions in the Parliament, where they are asked questions related to their respective portfolios. The questions may be asked by Members of Parliament from any political party.

The appointment of Ministers in the Indian Parliament is a critical aspect of the functioning of the government. It ensures that the government is able to function effectively and efficiently, and that the needs and aspirations of the people are adequately represented in the Parliament.

Oath and Salary of Indian Ministers in Parliament

Oath of Indian Ministers in Parliament:

When a Minister is appointed in India, he/she is required to take an oath or affirmation before the President or a person authorized by him/her. The oath or affirmation is as per the Third Schedule of the Constitution of India and reads as follows:

"I, ________, do swear in the name of God/solemnly affirm that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India as by law established, that I will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India, that I will faithfully and conscientiously discharge my duties as a Minister for the Union and that I will do right to all manner of people in accordance with the Constitution and the law, without fear or favour, affection or ill-will.

Salary of Indian Ministers in Parliament

The salary and allowances of Indian Ministers in Parliament are determined by the Parliament itself, through the Salaries and Allowances of Ministers Act, 1952.

The Act lays down the following provisions:

Salary

The basic salary of a Minister is Rs. 2,50,000 per month.

Constituency allowance

A Minister who is a Member of Parliament is entitled to a constituency allowance of Rs. 45,000 per month.

Sumptuary allowance

A sumptuary allowance of Rs. 4,000 per month is provided to a Minister to meet the expenses of his/her official entertainment.

Daily allowance

A Minister is entitled to a daily allowance of Rs. 2,000 per day when he/she is on official tour outside Delhi.

Travelling allowance

A Minister is entitled to first-class rail or air fare when travelling on official duty.

Free accommodation

A Minister is provided with a rent-free official residence, along with free electricity, water, and gas supply.

Secretarial assistance

A Minister is provided with secretarial assistance from the government, including the services of a Personal Assistant and a driver.

Medical facilities

A Minister is entitled to medical facilities, including free medical treatment and hospitalization in government hospitals.

Pension

A Minister is entitled to a pension after serving as a Minister for at least five years.

Other Allowances

A Minister is entitled to other allowances such as telephone and internet facilities, and free train and air travel for official purposes.

Government can change these allowance at any time. Please stay updated with current updates.

Responsibilities of Indian Ministers in Parliament

Indian Ministers in Parliament have the following responsibilities:

• Formulating and implementing policies of the government.
• Presenting and defending government policies and decisions in Parliament.
• Responding to questions and debates in Parliament related to their respective ministries.
• Representing India in international forums and negotiations.
• Participating in cabinet meetings and advising the Prime Minister.
• Managing their respective ministries and ensuring effective functioning.
• Coordinating with other ministries and departments for effective governance.
• Addressing grievances and concerns of citizens related to their ministries.
• Working towards achieving the goals and objectives of the government.
• Upholding the constitution and laws of India in the performance of their duties.