What are Cabinet committees, and why is the CCS the most important? | UPSC

Summary

The script discusses the swearing-in ceremony of the third term of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the composition of the Council of Ministers, highlighting the roles of Cabinet Ministers, Ministers of State with Independent Charge, and Ministers of State. It emphasizes the significance of the Cabinet Committee on Security, which deals with crucial national security matters, and mentions past instances of non-BJP party members being part of the committee. The importance of the committee in decision-making for defense expenditures and appointments is underscored, with a hint at the potential inclusion of TDP and JD(U) members, reflecting political dynamics.

Takeaways

• 😀 The script discusses the preparation for Prime Minister Modi's third term, including the swearing-in ceremony of 72 ministers.
• 🏛️ The importance of the Council of Ministers and the Cabinet Committee is highlighted, especially the Cabinet Committee on Security, which plays a crucial role in matters of national security.
• 👥 Out of the 72 ministers, there are 30 Cabinet Ministers, five Ministers of State with Independent Charge, and 36 Ministers of State who work under the Cabinet Ministers.
• 📝 The Cabinet Committee on Employment and other specialized committees are formed to address specific issues, with members chosen by the Prime Minister.
• 👤 The head of each Cabinet Committee is typically a Cabinet Minister, with the Prime Minister often being a part of these committees.
• 🔑 The Cabinet Committee on Security is particularly significant as it includes the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, Defense Minister, Home Affairs Minister, and External Affairs Minister.
• 💼 The role of the Cabinet Committee on Security extends to decisions on defense expenditure, appointments like the National Security Advisor, and atomic energy-related matters.
• 📊 Historical context is provided, comparing the structure and influence of Cabinet Committees in previous governments, including instances where leaders from other parties were included in the Cabinet Committee on Security.
• 📚 The script mentions that in PM Modi's previous terms, all members of the Cabinet Committee on Security were from the BJP, setting an expectation for the current term.
• 📈 There is speculation about pressure from other parties to include their members in the Cabinet Committee on Security, but PM Modi has reportedly denied such attempts.
• 📅 The script also refers to an upcoming live batch for UPSC preparation in three languages, offering a comprehensive preparation package including live classes, test series, and UPSC books delivered to the candidate's home.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Cabinet Committee on Security in India?

The Cabinet Committee on Security is crucial as it deals with matters related to the country's security, both internal and external, including defense expenditures and appointments of key positions like the National Security Advisor.

How many Cabinet Ministers are there in the third term of Prime Minister Modi's government?

There are approximately 72 leaders who have taken the oath, out of which 30 are Cabinet Ministers, 5 are Ministers of State with Independent Charge, and 36 are Ministers of State.

What is the role of Ministers of State with Independent Charge?

Ministers of State with Independent Charge do not work under a specific Cabinet Minister but have their own independent ministries and portfolios, working directly under the Prime Minister.

What is the difference between a Cabinet Minister and a Minister of State?

Cabinet Ministers are in charge of important ministries such as Education and Home Affairs, while Ministers of State work under the Cabinet Ministers and assist in their duties.

How many members are typically included in a Cabinet Committee?

A Cabinet Committee usually consists of members ranging from three to eight, depending on the workload and the importance of the issues to be addressed.

Who are the members of the Cabinet Committee on Security?

The Cabinet Committee on Security typically includes the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister, the Defense Minister, the Home Affairs Minister, and the External Affairs Minister.

What is the role of the Prime Minister in the Cabinet Committee on Security?

The Prime Minister is the head of the Cabinet Committee on Security and plays a pivotal role in making decisions related to national security and defense expenditures.

Can Ministers of State be included in the Cabinet Committee on Security?

While it is not mandatory, Ministers of State can be included in the Cabinet Committee on Security if deemed necessary by the Prime Minister.

What is the significance of the Cabinet Committee on Employment?

The Cabinet Committee on Employment is important as it deals with employment-related issues, suggesting policies and strategies to improve job opportunities in the country.

How are the members of the Cabinet Committee selected?

The Prime Minister selects the members of the Cabinet Committee based on their expertise and the specific tasks or issues the committee is meant to address.

What is the role of the External Affairs Minister in the Cabinet Committee on Security?

The External Affairs Minister plays a significant role in the Cabinet Committee on Security by providing insights on international relations and security concerns that may impact the country.