In the Indian Constitution, the terms “Council of Ministers” and “Cabinet” refer to distinct entities within the executive branch, each playing a specific role. Here are the key differences between the Council of Ministers and the Cabinet:
Composition:
- Council of Ministers: It includes all the ministers, both senior and junior, appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister. The Council of Ministers encompasses ministers of various ranks and portfolios.
- Cabinet: It is a subset of the Council of Ministers and consists of senior ministers chosen by the Prime Minister. Cabinet ministers usually hold significant portfolios and are part of key decision-making processes.
Decision-Making:
- Council of Ministers: While the Council of Ministers collectively participates in decision-making, the real authority often rests with the Cabinet and the Prime Minister.
- Cabinet: It is the core decision-making body within the Council of Ministers. Major policy decisions and crucial matters are typically deliberated and decided upon by the Cabinet.
Hierarchy:
- Council of Ministers: It includes ministers of various ranks, such as Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State (Independent Charge), and Ministers of State.
- Cabinet: It comprises senior ministers, usually holding key portfolios like Finance, Home Affairs, Defense, etc. Cabinet ministers are often considered the top tier in the ministerial hierarchy.
Advisory Role:
- Council of Ministers: It serves in an advisory capacity to the Prime Minister and collectively aids in the administration and governance of the country.
- Cabinet: Being the core decision-making body, the Cabinet plays a more direct and influential role in advising the Prime Minister on major policy matters.
Collective Responsibility:
- Council of Ministers: Members share collective responsibility for the overall performance of the government and its policies.
- Cabinet: The principle of collective responsibility is particularly emphasized within the Cabinet, where ministers collectively support and defend the government’s decisions.
In summary, while the Council of Ministers is a broader group comprising ministers of different ranks, the Cabinet is a more focused and influential subset within the Council. The Cabinet plays a crucial role in decision-making and policy formulation, with its members often holding key portfolios in the government.
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