Active learning ideas
The Executive unit focuses on the leadership and administrative arm of the Indian state. It distinguishes between the nominal executive (the President) and the real executive (the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers). Students explore the unique features of the parliamentary system, where the executive is part of and accountable to the legislature.
Activity 01
Students act as the PM and various Ministers to discuss a national crisis. They must navigate collective responsibility and prioritize departmental needs while the 'PM' makes the final call.
What is a parliamentary executive?
Activity 02
Groups research historical instances where the President used discretionary powers (e.g., appointing a PM in a hung parliament). They present whether the President acted as a 'rubber stamp' or an 'anchor'.
What are the powers of the President of India?
Activity 03
Students list the pros and cons of having non-expert politicians lead expert bureaucrats. They pair up to discuss how these two wings can work together more effectively.
How does the bureaucracy function?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The President of India has the same powers as the US President.
The Indian President is a formal head who acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, unlike the US President who is the head of government. Comparing the two systems in a table helps clarify this distinction.
Bureaucrats are just 'government servants' with no power.
The permanent executive plays a massive role in policy formulation and implementation. A flow-chart activity showing the journey of a file can highlight their influence.
Methods used in this brief
The Legislature
Examine the structure and functions of the Parliament of India. Learn about the law-making process and how the legislature controls the executive.
8 methodologies
The Judiciary
Analyze the structure of the integrated judicial system in India. Discuss the concepts of judicial review and judicial activism.
8 methodologies