UPSC Prelims 2009 Q86: Indian Polity – Union & State Executive
Which one of the following Constitutional Amendments states that the total number of
Ministers, including the Prime Minister, in the Council of Ministers shall not exceed fifteen
percent of the total number of members of the House of the People ?
- (a) 90th
- (b) 91st
- (c) 92nd
- (d) 93rd
Answer: (b) 91st
Explanation
Which Constitutional Amendment capped Council of Ministers' size
A specific amendment introduced a numerical limit on the Union (and State) Council of Ministers, to curb excessive Cabinet sizes.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) 90th | Incorrect | Not the amendment introducing this cap |
| (b) 91st | Correct | The 91st Amendment (2003) capped the total number of ministers (including the PM) at 15% of the Lok Sabha's total membership |
| (c) 92nd | Incorrect | Dealt with a different matter (languages in the Eighth Schedule) |
| (d) 93rd | Incorrect | Dealt with reservation in educational institutions, unrelated to this cap |
91st Amendment facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Year | 2003 |
| Provision | Council of Ministers capped at 15% of Lok Sabha's total strength |
Answer: (b) 91st.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The 90th Amendment dealt with a different matter.
- (b) CORRECT. The 91st Amendment (2003) introduced the 15% ministerial-strength cap.
- (c) Incorrect. The 92nd Amendment dealt with language additions to the Eighth Schedule.
- (d) Incorrect. The 93rd Amendment dealt with educational reservation, unrelated to this cap.
Key point
The 91st Constitutional Amendment (2003) capped the Council of Ministers (including the PM) at 15% of the Lok Sabha's total membership.
Remember
The 91st Constitutional Amendment capped the Council of Ministers at 15% of the Lok Sabha's total strength.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the 91st Amendment's ministerial-size cap with nearby numbered amendments (90th, 92nd, 93rd) dealing with unrelated matters.
- Not knowing the specific 15% figure introduced by this amendment.
- Mixing up this amendment with the anti-defection provisions also addressed around the same time.
Exam tip
91st Amendment (2003) = 15% Council of Ministers cap. A specific, numbered-amendment fact.
Sources
- Constitution (Ninety-first Amendment) Act, 2003
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Central Council of Ministers)