PMO:EVOLUTION OF THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE IN INDIA
1. What led to the establishment of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat (PMS)?
The PMS, later known as the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), was established by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri on June 16, 1964, with the objective of providing secretarial assistance to the Prime Minister. This decision was aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the Prime Minister’s decision-making process.
2. How did the role of the Cabinet Secretary change after the creation of the PMS?
Before the establishment of the PMS, the Cabinet Secretary was the primary coordinator among ministries and a key figure in senior bureaucratic appointments. The creation of the PMS diminished the role of the Cabinet Secretary by centralizing many of these responsibilities within the PMO, effectively shifting the power dynamics within the government.
3. Who was the first secretary of the PMS, and why was he significant?
LK Jha was appointed as the first secretary of the PMS. His appointment was significant because he had a strong alignment with Prime Minister Shastri’s policies and enjoyed a high level of trust, which allowed him to exert considerable influence over economic and administrative decisions.
4. Did the PMS affect the governance style in India?
Yes, the establishment of the PMS is often credited with introducing a more centralized form of governance in India. Critics argue that it led to a de facto presidential system where the Prime Minister’s Office held substantial sway over national policies and decisions.
5. How has the PMO’s influence evolved over different administrations?
The influence of the PMO has varied depending on the leadership style of the incumbent Prime Minister. It has been particularly strong under Prime Ministers like Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi, who leveraged the office to centralize power and drive major policy initiatives. Conversely, the PMO’s influence waned during coalition governments or when external entities like the National Advisory Council under UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi held significant sway.
6. What changes occurred in the PMO after Lal Bahadur Shastri?
After Shastri’s tenure, the PMO continued to evolve under successive prime ministers. Indira Gandhi, for example, appointed PN Haksar, who played a pivotal role in shaping the office’s structure and function, further enhancing its role as a central power hub in Indian politics.
7. Has the PMO been subject to criticism?
Yes, the PMO has faced criticism for centralizing power and diminishing the traditional roles of other high-ranking officials and bodies, such as the Cabinet Secretary. Critics argue that this centralization can lead to decreased transparency and accountability in governance.
These FAQs highlight the significant transformation and the pivotal role that the PMO has played in shaping India’s administrative landscape.
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