Topic Details (Notes format)

Foreign Policy and Parliament’s Role

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

India’s foreign policy decisions primarily rest with the executive (PM, Ministry of External Affairs). However, Parliament holds debates, question hours, or special discussions on treaties, border disputes, or major international accords (e.g., Indo-US nuclear deal). While no constitutional provision mandates legislative ratification of treaties, parliamentary scrutiny influences public opinion and exerts moral pressure. Standing Committees on External Affairs help shape policy directions. Critics propose formal treaty ratification laws to ensure transparency and bipartisanship. Balancing executive agility with legislative oversight ensures that critical national engagements reflect the popular will, aligning diplomacy with India’s democratic ethos.

Practice Questions

Which of the following is NOT a power of the Rajya Sabha?

What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha?

मौलिक अधिकारों की सुरक्षा के लिए नागरिकों को कौन सा अधिकार प्रदान किया गया है?

न्यायपालिका की स्वतंत्रता सुनिश्चित करने के लिए किस प्रावधान को शामिल किया गया है?

संविधान सभा की बैठकें किस वर्ष प्रारंभ हुई थीं?

संसद में मतभेद सुलझाने के लिए किस व्यवस्था का प्रयोग होता है?

Who among the following was the first woman Governor of an Indian state?

Which article of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression?

राजनीतिक दलों की स्वतंत्रता किस अनुच्छेद में सुनिश्चित की गई है?

In India, the power to declare war and peace is vested in which of the following?