Parliament: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Polity)

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts consists of 22 members of which 15 are from Lok Sabha and 7 from Rajya Sabha. It is formed every year with its members serving one-year terms in office. The chairperson of the PAC is usually a member of the opposition party in the Lok Sabha.

Statement 2 is correct: It scrutinises appropriation and finance accounts of the Government. The Committee ensures that the government does not misuse or misappropriate public funds.

Statement 3 is correct: The CAG audits the accounts of the government and submits reports to Parliament which is scrutinized by PAC to ensure that public funds are being used efficiently and according to the law. CAG acts as a guide, friend and philosopher of the committee.

Explanation

Statement 1 is incorrect: As per Article 75(3) of the constitution "the Council of Ministers shall be collectively responsible to the House of the People" not to the whole Parliament which includes both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.

Statement 2 is correct: Article 75(2) of the Constitution of India mandates that the Ministers shall hold office during the pleasure of the President.

Statement 3 is correct: According to Article 78, it is the duty of the Prime Minister to communicate to the President all decisions of the Council of Ministers relating to the administration of the affairs of the union and proposals for legislation.

Explanation

Money Bill is defined under Article 110 of the Indian Constitution. It is concerned with financial matters like the imposition, abolition, remission, alteration or regulation of any tax. It is introduced only on the recommendation of the President and only in Lok Sabha. It must be passed in Lok Sabha by a simple majority of all members present and voting. Following this, it may be sent to the Rajya Sabha for its recommendations. Rajya Sabha has limited power with respect to money bills so no chance of any disagreement. Rajya Sabha can keep it for a maximum period of 14 days.The Rajya Sabha cannot amend or reject the bill. It should return the bill with or without recommendation. Lok Sabha may accept or reject recommendation.

Explanation

The Parliament is empowered to make laws on all matters listed in the Union List and the Concurrent List of the Constitution. Under Article 253 of the Constitution of India, Parliament can make laws for the whole or any part of India to give effect to international treaties, agreements, or conventions, and this can be done without the consent of any State. Article 253 says that it can also formulate laws on any matter pertaining to the State List if it is deemed necessary for the implementation of international treaties or agreements concluded with foreign nations. This is a unique provision where Parliament can legislate beyond its usual jurisdiction without requiring the consent of the states.