ICSE Class 10 Answered

The following are the three stages in the formation of the Council of Ministers:

Designation of a New Prime Minister

1. The first step in the process of government formation, and by extension the formation of the Council of Ministers, is the designation of a new Prime Minister.

2. The Constitution provides that ‘’the Prime Minister shall be appointed by the President”. However, the real qualification for a political leader to become the Prime Minister is the support of the Lok Sabharather than the personal preference of the President.

    

Appointment of the Ministers

1. The other members of the Council of Ministers are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister has to be mindful that his Ministers can work together as a team and manage to maintain the confidence of the Lok Sabha.

2. He also has to ensure that as far as possible, leaders from all the communities and regions of the country find representation in his government.

3. All Ministers are supposed to be members of either House of the Parliament. If a non-member is appointed as a Minister, he has to get himself elected or nominated to either House within 6 months of his appointment.

    

 Oaths of Office and Secrecy 

1. Every Minister has to take the Oath of Office and Secrecy before taking over his portfolio.
2. Under the Oath of Office, he swears that:
1. He will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of India;
2. He will uphold the sovereignty and integrity of India.
3. He will faithfully discharge his duties as Minister without fear or favour, affection or ill will.
3. Under the Oath of Secrecy a Minister affirms that he will not reveal to any person any matter which shall be brought under his consideration as a Minister.