Question

The Union Ministers, as per Article 75(2) of the Constitution, shall hold office during the pleasure of _________________.
A.Prime Minister of India
B.President of India
C.Speaker of Lok Sabha
D.Vice-President of India

Answer 1

Hint: As stated in Article 75(1) of the Indian Constitution, the union cabinet ministers and the larger council of ministers are appointed by the President of India on the advice of the Prime Minister. Ministers should be Members of Parliament belonging to either Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha. If a minister is not a Member of Parliament, then they must become one within six months of appointment. The Union Ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha [Article 75(3)].

Complete Step by Step answer: Option A: Prime Minister is incorrect. Even though the Union Ministers are appointed on the advice of and headed by the Prime Minister, they do not hold office during the pleasure of the Prime Minister.
Option B: President is correct. Article 75(2) states that the entire Council of Ministers including the Union Ministers hold office during the pleasure of the President. The President administers the oath of office and of secrecy to the Prime Minister and other ministers.
Option C: Speaker of Lok Sabha is incorrect. The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is elected by the members of the Lok Sabha from within themselves. The Speaker presides over the meetings and all other business of the Lower House and cannot be a part of the Council of Ministers. The Union Ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
Option D: The Vice-President is incorrect. The Vice-President functions as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and presides over all the meetings and other businesses of the Upper House.

Note: The 91st Constitutional Amendment of 2003 fixed the maximum strength of the council of ministers at one-fifth of the strength of the Lok Sabha.