The parliamentary system of government plays a vital role in the Indian Constitution, shaping the country’s governance structure and decision-making processes. It establishes a framework where the executive branch is accountable to the legislature, ensuring a balance of power and promoting democratic principles. Let’s discuss the powers and functions of the Prime Minister, the Cabinet, and the Parliament in the Indian parliamentary system and highlight the key differences with a presidential system.

Prime Minister:
The Prime Minister is the head of government in India and holds significant powers and responsibilities. Some key aspects of the Prime Minister’s role include:
a. Executive Powers: The Prime Minister exercises executive powers and is responsible for the overall administration of the country.
b. Appointment of Ministers: The Prime Minister appoints and allocates portfolios to members of the Council of Ministers, who form the government.
c. Policy Formulation: The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in formulating policies and guiding the government’s agenda.
d. Leader of the Lok Sabha: The Prime Minister leads the government in the Lok Sabha (lower house of Parliament) and represents the executive in Parliament.
Cabinet:
The Cabinet is a collective decision-making body comprising ministers responsible for various government departments. Key functions of the Cabinet include:
a. Policy Decision-Making: The Cabinet deliberates and makes decisions on important policy matters and issues of national importance.
b. Coordination: Cabinet meetings provide a platform for coordination among different ministries and ensure a cohesive approach to governance.
c. Executive Responsibility: Cabinet members are collectively responsible for the actions and policies of the government.
Parliament:
The Parliament is the supreme legislative body in India and consists of two houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). The powers and functions of Parliament include:
a. Legislation: Parliament has the authority to enact laws on various subjects listed in the Union List, Concurrent List, and Residuary Powers.
b. Financial Control: Parliament exercises control over the government’s finances through the approval of the annual budget and oversight of public expenditure.
c. Representation: Parliament represents the diversity of the country and provides a platform for elected representatives to voice the concerns of their constituents.
d. Scrutiny and Oversight: Parliament scrutinizes the government’s actions, policies, and legislation through debates, questions, and committee work, ensuring accountability.
Differences from a Presidential System:
The parliamentary system in India differs from a presidential system in several ways:
a. Executive-Legislative Relationship: In a parliamentary system, the executive (Prime Minister and Cabinet) is accountable to the legislature, while in a presidential system, the executive (President) is separate and independent of the legislature.
b. Separation of Powers: A parliamentary system combines the executive and legislative powers, whereas a presidential system separates these powers.
c. Flexibility: The parliamentary system allows for a more flexible and prompt response to changing circumstances, as the executive can be held accountable through votes of no-confidence or early elections.
d. Direct Election: In a presidential system, the President is directly elected by the people, whereas the Prime Minister in a parliamentary system is elected indirectly through the legislature.

Overall, the parliamentary system in India provides a framework for responsible government and shared decision-making between the executive and legislative branches. It promotes accountability, consensus-building, and flexibility in governance, distinguishing it from a presidential system with its separate executive and legislative powers.