Article 87 of Indian Constitution

Article 87 of Indian Constitution – Defines the President’s special address to Parliament Learn definition, status, related articles, UPSC relevance.
📅 Part VI – The States
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Article Number

87

part

Part VI – The States

Status

Active

Full Definition & Explanation

Article 87 of the Indian Constitution outlines the President’s role in addressing both Houses of Parliament. This special address occurs at two key times: after each general election to the House of the People and at the beginning of each year. This address serves as a formal occasion where the President informs Parliament about the reasons for its convening. It is a moment for the President to outline the government’s agenda and priorities, allowing members of Parliament to understand what to expect in the upcoming session.

The address affects both Houses of Parliament, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, as they gather together to hear the President’s speech. This process enhances the significance of the sessions by framing the government’s plans and objectives clearly. The rules set by each House regulate how much time is allotted for discussions following the President’s address. This ensures that Parliament can engage with the topics presented, facilitating a healthy debate and discussion on government policies.

Real-world impacts of this article can be seen in how it sets the tone for the parliamentary session. For instance, the President’s address can highlight pressing national issues, such as economic challenges or social reforms, guiding legislators on urgent matters. By informing Parliament of the government’s priorities, it encourages accountability and responsiveness from elected representatives, which is key for a functioning democracy. Overall, Article 87 plays a critical role in the legislative process, ensuring the government remains transparent and accountable to the people through their representatives.

Historical Context

Article 87 was included in the Constitution when it was adopted in 1950. The Constituent Assembly debated the President’s role extensively, emphasizing the need for direct communication between the government and Parliament. The provisions were designed to ensure that the President, as the head of state, communicates directly with Parliament. Although there have been no amendments specifically to Article 87, it reflects the democratic principles established during the framing of the Constitution. Key Supreme Court cases, like the Kesavananda Bharati case, highlight the President’s role in maintaining the balance of power within the government, reinforcing the article’s relevance. This historical evolution demonstrates the responsive nature of the constitutional framework in addressing the nation’s changing needs over time.

Key Features

– The President addresses both Houses of Parliament at specific times.
– The address occurs after general elections and at the year’s start.
– It informs Parliament about the reasons for its summon.
– Rules govern the time allocated for discussion of the address.
– The address sets the agenda for the parliamentary session.

Importance & Impact

– The President’s address outlines the government’s priorities and strategic plans for the year.
– This address fosters accountability among elected representatives in their legislative activities.
– Members can engage in discussions based on the President’s address, facilitating informed debates.
– The address serves as an opportunity to address pressing national issues and challenges.
– This process strengthens the relationship between the executive branch and the legislative branch.

Sample UPSC Question

Which of the following statements regarding Article 87 of the Indian Constitution is correct? A) It mandates the President to address Parliament twice a year. B) The address is made at the beginning of each financial year. C) Parliament can discuss the President’s address as regulated by House rules. D) The President’s address is optional for the government. Select the correct answer and explain the significance of this address in the legislative process.? Which of the statements given above are correct in the context of the federal structure of India?

Answer

Option C is correct. Article 87 specifies that the President’s address is followed by discussions regulated by the rules of each House, ensuring an organized debate on the presented agenda. Options A and B are incorrect as the address occurs after elections and at the year’s start, not based on financial years. Option D is wrong because the address is a constitutional requirement, not an option.

Key Takeaways

✓ The President addresses Parliament after general elections and annually.
✓ The address informs Parliament about government priorities and pressing issues.
✓ Rules regulate discussion time following the President’s address for clarity.
✓ The address promotes accountability and responsiveness from elected representatives.
✓ It helps maintain a strong relationship between the government and Parliament.

FAQs

The President’s address aims to inform Parliament about the government’s agenda and priorities. It sets the tone for the session and encourages discussions on key issues. This practice enhances transparency and accountability in governance, allowing members to engage meaningfully with the government’s plans and actions. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

The President addresses Parliament after each general election and at the start of every new year. These two occasions are critical for outlining the government’s plans. They ensure that both Houses are aware of the government’s priorities and can prepare for upcoming legislative activities effectively. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

The rules determine how much time is allotted for discussing the President’s address. This ensures structured debates on the government’s priorities, allowing members to effectively engage with the issues presented. Properly regulated discussions lead to informed decision-making and accountability in governance. These rules help maintain a consistent and fair approach to public administration and governance across the country.

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