Introduction

The Indian Constitution is a comprehensive document that lays down the framework for the functioning of the Indian government. It is a living document that has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the nation. One of the important provisions of the Constitution is Article 87, which deals with the special address by the President.

Understanding Article 87

Article 87 of the Indian Constitution grants the President the power to address both Houses of Parliament, i.e., the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People), at the commencement of the first session after each general election and at the commencement of the first session of each year. This special address by the President is commonly known as the "President's Address."

The President's Address is an important event in the parliamentary calendar and holds great significance. It serves as a platform for the President to communicate the policies and programs of the government to the members of Parliament and the nation as a whole. It provides an opportunity for the President to highlight the achievements of the government, outline its future plans, and address any pressing issues or concerns.

Procedure for the President's Address

The President's Address is a formal event that follows a specific procedure. The President delivers the address in either Hindi or English, depending on the preference of the President. The address is usually prepared by the government in consultation with the President and contains a comprehensive overview of the government's policies, programs, and initiatives.

Before the President's Address, a joint sitting of both Houses of Parliament is held in the Central Hall. The Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha are present during the address. Members of Parliament from both Houses, as well as other dignitaries, are also in attendance.

After the President concludes the address, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha thanks the President on behalf of both Houses of Parliament. This is followed by a motion of thanks moved by a member of Parliament and seconded by another. The motion is then debated and voted upon by the members of Parliament.

Significance of the President's Address

The President's Address is a crucial event that sets the tone for the government's agenda for the upcoming year. It provides an opportunity for the President to outline the government's priorities and address important issues facing the nation. The address serves as a roadmap for the government and helps in shaping the legislative agenda for the year.

Moreover, the President's Address is not just a ceremonial event but also serves as a means of accountability. It allows the members of Parliament to scrutinize the government's policies and programs and hold it accountable for its actions. The address is followed by a debate, during which members of Parliament can express their views, ask questions, and seek clarifications from the government.

The President's Address also serves as a platform for the President to highlight the achievements of the government and inspire the nation. It provides an opportunity for the President to address the aspirations and concerns of the people and instill confidence in the government's ability to address them.

Recent Examples of President's Address

Over the years, several Presidents have delivered memorable addresses that have left a lasting impact on the nation. One such example is the President's Address delivered by President Ram Nath Kovind on January 31, 2020. In his address, President Kovind highlighted the government's achievements in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. He also emphasized the government's commitment to inclusive growth and development.

Another notable example is the President's Address delivered by President Pranab Mukherjee on June 9, 2014. In his address, President Mukherjee outlined the government's vision for the nation and emphasized the need for inclusive growth, social justice, and good governance.

Conclusion

Article 87 of the Indian Constitution grants the President the power to address both Houses of Parliament, providing a platform to communicate the government's policies, programs, and initiatives. The President's Address is a significant event that sets the agenda for the government and holds it accountable for its actions. It serves as a means of transparency, accountability, and inspiration for the nation. The President's Address plays a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation and ensuring its progress and development.