The President of India possesses executive powers and serves as the head of state. They appoint the Prime Minister and other members of the Council of Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister. These executive powers are derived from Article 53 of the Indian Constitution.
The President has the authority to appoint various high-ranking officials, including the Chief Justice of India, judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, the Attorney General, and the Comptroller and Auditor General. These appointments are made in consultation with the Prime Minister and other relevant authorities.
The President plays a significant role in the legislative process. They can summon and prorogue sessions of Parliament, deliver addresses to both Houses of Parliament, and give assent to bills passed by Parliament to enact them into laws. However, the President's assent is usually based on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
The President has the power to withhold assent to a bill passed by Parliament, known as a veto. This power can be exercised when the President deems a bill to be against the Constitution or public interest. However, the President's veto can be overridden by Parliament under certain circumstances.
In times of national emergency, the President has special powers conferred under Articles 352, 356, and 360 of the Indian Constitution. These powers allow the President to declare a state of emergency in the country, suspending some fundamental rights and assuming additional executive authority.
The President represents India in matters of international relations. They receive foreign ambassadors and high commissioners and send Indian ambassadors and high commissioners to other countries. However, the President acts on the advice of the Prime Minister and the Ministry of External Affairs in these matters.
The President has the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites, or remissions of punishment to individuals convicted of certain offenses. This power is exercised in accordance with the advice of the Council of Ministers and other relevant authorities.
As the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, the President holds significant powers related to the defense of the country. They appoint the Chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force and have the authority to declare war or make peace, subject to the approval of the Cabinet and Parliament.
The President has the power to appoint judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, as well as to remove them in certain circumstances. These appointments are made based on the recommendations of the Chief Justice of India and the collegium system.
The President performs various ceremonial duties, such as conferring awards and honors, receiving foreign dignitaries, and representing the country in official functions. These powers symbolize the unity and integrity of the nation and are aimed at upholding the dignity of the office.