The Prime Minister's Secretariat (PMS), now commonly referred to as the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), was created on June 16, 1964, by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. The main goal was to provide essential secretarial assistance to the Prime Minister, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of decision-making processes.
Prior to the PMS's establishment, the Cabinet Secretary served as the primary coordinator among various ministries and was vital in senior bureaucratic appointments. However, the formation of the PMS resulted in a diminished role for the Cabinet Secretary, centralizing many of those responsibilities within the PMO and altering the power dynamics within the government.
LK Jha was appointed as the first secretary of the PMS. His significance lies in his close alignment with Prime Minister Shastri’s policies and the trust he garnered, allowing him to influence key economic and administrative decisions significantly.
The establishment of the PMS is often acknowledged for introducing a more centralized governance style in India. Critics argue that this change fostered a de facto presidential system, granting substantial influence to the PMO over national policies and decisions.
The influence of the PMO has varied considerably across different administrations. Under leaders like Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi, the PMO's power has been notably strong, facilitating the centralization of authority and the initiation of major policy reforms. Conversely, its influence has diminished during coalition governments or when external bodies like the National Advisory Council, under Sonia Gandhi, gained prominence.
Following Shastri’s tenure, the PMO continued to adapt under successive prime ministers. For instance, Indira Gandhi appointed PN Haksar, who was instrumental in redefining the PMO's structure and function, further solidifying its position as a central power hub in Indian politics.
The PMO has faced criticism over the years for centralizing power and undermining the traditional roles of high-ranking officials and institutions, such as the Cabinet Secretary. Detractors argue that this centralization can lead to reduced transparency and accountability in governance.
Q1. What was the primary purpose of establishing the PMO?
Answer: The PMO was established to provide secretarial assistance to the Prime Minister, aiming to enhance the efficiency of decision-making processes in governance.
Q2. Who was the first secretary of the PMO, and what was his influence?
Answer: LK Jha was the first secretary of the PMO. His close alignment with Prime Minister Shastri allowed him to significantly influence key economic and administrative decisions.
Q3. How did the PMO change the governance style in India?
Answer: The PMO's establishment led to a more centralized governance style in India, with critics noting that it contributed to a de facto presidential system where the PMO held considerable power over national policies.
Q4. Has the PMO's influence changed with different prime ministers?
Answer: Yes, the PMO's influence has varied significantly, being stronger under leaders like Indira Gandhi and Narendra Modi, while weaker during coalition governments or when external entities gained prominence.
Q5. What criticisms has the PMO faced?
Answer: The PMO has been criticized for centralizing power and diminishing the roles of traditional high-ranking officials, potentially leading to reduced transparency and accountability in governance.
Question 1: When was the Prime Minister's Secretariat established?
A) June 16, 1964
B) August 15, 1947
C) January 26, 1950
D) March 1, 1960
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Who was the first secretary of the Prime Minister's Office?
A) PN Haksar
B) LK Jha
C) Indira Gandhi
D) Lal Bahadur Shastri
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What impact did the PMO have on the Cabinet Secretary's role?
A) Increased responsibilities
B) Diminished role
C) No change
D) Expanded influence
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which Prime Minister is known for strengthening the PMO's influence?
A) Lal Bahadur Shastri
B) Indira Gandhi
C) Rajiv Gandhi
D) Atal Bihari Vajpayee
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What criticism has the PMO faced regarding governance?
A) Increased transparency
B) Centralization of power
C) Enhanced accountability
D) Decreased influence
Correct Answer: B
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