The correct answer is Both a and b. Explanation & Key Takeaways: • In Britain, the Prime Minister should definitely be a member of the House of Commons. • In India, a person who is not a member of either House of Parliament can be appointed as Prime Minister. • Hence both the statements are correct. Related Concepts: • President of India appoints a person as the Prime Minister who is either the leader of the party which holds a majority of seats in the Lok Sabha or is a person who is able to win the confidence of the Lok Sabha by gaining the support of other political parties. • All other ministers are appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister. • To become an Indian prime minister one has to be • A citizen of India. • A member of either Rajya Sabha or Lok Sabha. • He should have completed his 30 years if he is a member of the Rajya Sabha or can be 25 years of age if he is a member of the Lok Sabha. • Relationship between Prime Minister and the President • Article 74 mentions how the Prime Minister and President are both connected with the council of ministers. The Council with PM as head advise President on various issues. • Article 75 mentions three things: • President appoints PM and other ministers are appointed by the President on the advice of the PM. • Ministers hold their office during the pleasure of the President. • The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. • Article 78 PM communicates all decisions made by the council of members to the President. President can also refer issues for the consideration of the council of members. • Power and Function of Prime Minister • The leader of the Country: The Prime Minister of India is the Head of the Government of India. • Portfolio allocation: The Prime Minister has the authority to assign portfolios to the Ministers. • Chairman of the Cabinet: The Prime Minister is the chairman of the cabinet and presides the meetings of the Cabinet. He can impose his decision if there is a crucial opinion difference among the members. • Official Representative of the country: Prime minister represents the country for high-level international meetings. • The link between the President and the Cabinet: The Prime Minister acts as the link between President and cabinet. He communicates all decisions of the Cabinet to the President which is related to the administration of the affairs of the Union and proposals for legislation. • Head: The Prime Minister is the head of Nuclear Command Authority, NITI Aayog, Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, Department of Atomic Energy, Department of Space and Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. • Chief Advisor: He acts as the chief advisor to the President.