Chief Minister and Council of Ministers in State

Article 163 of the constitution says that there shall be a Council of Ministers in the states with the Chief Minister at the head to aid and advise the Governor in exercise his functions, except those which are required to be done by the Governor on his/ her discretion. Further, if there is any question whether a matter falls within the Governor’s discretion or not, decision of the Governor shall be final.

In the state, the chief minister is appointed by Governor and other ministers are appointed by Governor on advice of Chief Minister. The council of the Ministers holds the office during the pleasure of the Governor, but actually holds the office as long as it enjoys majority in state legislative assembly. The council of ministers works on the principle of collective responsibility to the legislature of the state. This means that vote of no-confidence against any minister automatically leads to the resignation of entire council. A Minister who for any period of six consecutive months is not a member of the Legislature of the State, at the expiration of that period ceases to be a Minister. (Article 164)

The council of Ministers formulates the policy of the Government and implements it practically. The all important appointments in the states are made by the Governor and Council of Minister advices / aids Governor in this work. The Council of Ministers forms and presents the Budget of the state every year.