Explain the role and powers of the President of India in the parliamentary system.

The President of India plays a crucial role in the parliamentary system. Elaborate on the role and powers of the President of India in the parliamentary system.
The President of India holds a ceremonial and symbolic position in the parliamentary system, but also possesses certain powers and responsibilities. Here is a point-wise breakdown of the role and powers of the President:
  • The President is the head of state and represents the country both domestically and internationally.
  • The President appoints the Prime Minister, who is usually the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha (Lower House).
  • The President appoints other members of the Council of Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister.
  • The President summons and prorogues sessions of Parliament and also sets the agenda for these sessions.
  • The President can dissolve the Lok Sabha and call for fresh elections.
  • The President acts as the final authority for approving bills passed by both houses of Parliament before they become law.
  • The President can veto bills passed by Parliament and send them back for reconsideration.
  • The President has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, and commute sentences of individuals convicted of offenses.
  • The President represents the executive power of the Union, but the exercise of most powers is carried out by the Council of Ministers.
These powers and responsibilities of the President aim to provide a system of checks and balances in the Indian parliamentary democracy.
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