What is the need of a president in a country like India?

In the context of India, the president serves several critical roles that are essential for the functioning and stability of the country's democratic system. Here are some key reasons highlighting the need for a president in India:

Symbolic and Unifying Role

The president acts as the head of state and the first citizen of the country, symbolizing the unity and integrity of India. This role helps in representing the nation both domestically and internationally124.

Constitutional Guardian

The primary duty of the president is to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and the law of India, as part of their oath under Article 60 of the Indian Constitution. This ensures that the president upholds the constitutional framework and protects the rule of law124.

Ceremonial and Formal Duties

The president performs various ceremonial and formal duties, such as hosting state visits, conferring awards, and addressing the nation on important occasions. These functions help maintain the dignity and prestige of the office of the president14.

Executive Oversight

Although the president is the nominal head of the executive, they have the power to ensure that the government acts in accordance with the Constitution. The president can return bills to the parliament for reconsideration, veto certain laws (though this can be overridden), and use their discretionary powers to prevent unconstitutional decisions by the government or state legislatures124.

Ensuring Parliamentary Accountability

The president plays a crucial role in ensuring that the government is accountable to the parliament. For instance, the president can direct incoming prime ministers to prove their majority in the parliament within a reasonable timeframe, preventing them from making policy decisions without a clear mandate1.

Judicial and Legislative Interactions

The president has the power to seek advice from the Attorney General and the Chief Justice of India, which helps in performing their judicial role. Additionally, the president can return bills to the parliament for reconsideration and has the authority to summon, prorogue, or dissolve the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the parliament)12.

Emergency Powers

In times of crisis, the president can invoke emergency powers under Articles 352, 356, and 360 of the Constitution to address national emergencies, state emergencies, or financial emergencies. This ensures stability and continuity of governance during critical periods1.

In summary, the president of India is essential for maintaining the constitutional order, ensuring the rule of law, and symbolizing national unity, thereby playing a vital role in the country's governance and stability.