Question 26 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Polity and
Governance

Question

Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. A mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.

Strategy: Focus on the core principle of the Cabinet form of government. Identify the option containing the keyword 'collective responsibility' and eliminate distractors that focus on non-fundamental aspects like administrative efficiency or personal authority.

Key Info: The Cabinet form of government, also known as the parliamentary system, is defined by the collective responsibility of the Council of Ministers to the legislature.

**Key characteristics:**
- The executive branch, or Cabinet, is drawn from the legislature and is accountable to it.
- The Prime Minister is considered first among equals, but decisions are made collectively and supported publicly by all members.
- The Cabinet must resign if it loses the confidence of the lower house, ensuring continuous accountability.

In India, this principle is enshrined in Article 75(3) of the Constitution. This system contrasts with a presidential system, where the executive is independent of the legislature.

**Objectives of collective responsibility:**
- To ensure transparency in governance.
- To maintain unity in decision-making.
- To provide direct answerability of the government to the people's representatives.

The Cabinet system is a British legacy and forms the basis of governance in India, the UK, and other Commonwealth nations.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: An arrangement for minimizing the criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out the satisfaction of all.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: A mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: A device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline.