Q. With reference to the powers and functions of the Prime Minister of India in relation to the Council of Ministers, consider the following statements:
1.The President is constitutionally free to appoint any person as a minister, independent of the Prime Minister’s recommendation.
2.The Prime Minister can advise the President to dismiss a minister in case of a difference of opinion.
3.The resignation or death of the Prime Minister leads to the automatic dissolution of the Council of Ministers.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: A
Notes:
Explanation:
- The President can appoint only those ministers who are recommended by the Prime Minister. He is not free to appoint anyone independently.
- The Prime Minister can advise the President to dismiss a minister if there is a difference of opinion.
- The resignation or death of the Prime Minister automatically dissolves the Council of Ministers, unlike the resignation of any other minister which creates only a vacancy.
Source: Laxmikant (Polity)

