The President of India is the head of state and the supreme commander of the Indian Armed Forces. As the ceremonial leader, the President embodies the unity and integrity of the nation. According to Article 52 of the Indian Constitution, there shall be a President of India, and Article 53 mandates that the President holds all executive powers of the Union, executed either directly or through subordinate officers.
India’s journey as a republic began on January 26, 1950, with the implementation of its Constitution. Since then, India has witnessed the tenures of fifteen Presidents, each contributing uniquely to the country’s political and social landscape. Here's a detailed look at the Presidents of India from 1950 to the present, including their notable contributions, backgrounds, and legacies.
1. Dr. Rajendra Prasad (1950–1962)
Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the first President of India, serving two terms. He played a key role in India's independence movement and presided over the Constituent Assembly. His tenure is notable for his deep commitment to constitutional principles, and he was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1962.
2. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1962–1967)
Renowned philosopher Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan became the second President. His birthday on September 5 is celebrated as Teachers' Day across India in his honor. Known for his intellectual acumen, he received the Bharat Ratna in 1954.
3. Dr. Zakir Husain (1967–1969)
Dr. Zakir Husain was India’s first Muslim President. His commitment to educational reforms is well-remembered, and he passed away in office. V.V. Giri acted as interim President, followed by Justice Mohammad Hidayatullah until elections were held.
4. V.V. Giri (1969–1974)
V.V. Giri holds the unique distinction of being the only independent candidate elected as President. Known for his labor movement support, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1975.
5. Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed (1974–1977)
Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, the fifth President, faced the controversial period of the Emergency (1975–1977). He passed away in office, making B.D. Jatti the Acting President.
6. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy (1977–1982)
Neelam Sanjiva Reddy was the only President to be elected unopposed. Known for his affable personality, he was previously the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
7. Giani Zail Singh (1982–1987)
Giani Zail Singh’s tenure was marked by significant events such as Operation Blue Star and the assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, which led to widespread anti-Sikh riots. Known for his tact, he famously exercised the pocket veto on the Indian Post Office Bill.
8. R. Venkataraman (1987–1992)
A recipient of the Tamra Patra for his role in the independence movement, R. Venkataraman was the eighth President. He was known for his statesmanship and received several international accolades, including the Soviet Land Prize.
9. Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma (1992–1997)
Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, previously Vice President, was a respected figure in the legal fraternity and former Chief Minister of Bhopal. He was honored by the International Bar Association with the ‘Living Legend of Law Award.’
10. K.R. Narayanan (1997–2002)
As India’s first Dalit President, K.R. Narayanan was highly respected. He became the first President to vote in the Lok Sabha elections and made it a point to uphold the Constitution and parliamentary practices diligently.
11. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (2002–2007)
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the “Missile Man of India,” became an icon for the nation. His scientific achievements and contributions to India’s defense technology, particularly the Pokhran-II nuclear tests, earned him immense respect. He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1997 and inspired millions through his vision for a developed India.
12. Pratibha Patil (2007–2012)
Pratibha Patil was India’s first woman President. A former Governor of Rajasthan, her tenure broke the glass ceiling and set a precedent for women in high office. Notably, she became the first woman President to fly a Sukhoi fighter jet.
13. Pranab Mukherjee (2012–2017)
A seasoned statesman, Pranab Mukherjee was known for his pragmatism and extensive experience, having held key portfolios such as Finance, Defence, and External Affairs. His achievements earned him the Padma Vibhushan in 2008. He was deeply respected across party lines for his acumen and dedication.
14. Ram Nath Kovind (2017–2022)
Ram Nath Kovind, a former Governor of Bihar, was lauded for his humility and dedication. He championed the cause of the underprivileged and used his tenure to reinforce the importance of constitutional values.
15. Droupadi Murmu (2022–Present)
Droupadi Murmu, the incumbent President, made history as the first tribal woman to hold the highest office. Her dedication to social welfare, particularly in tribal areas, has marked her career, and her tenure is seen as a milestone in inclusivity.
Election and Powers of the President of India
The President of India is elected by an Electoral College comprising the elected members of both Houses of Parliament and the Legislative Assemblies of the States and Union Territories. The single transferable vote system is used, allowing for preferential voting. The President’s five-year term can be extended if a successor has not assumed office. A President may resign at any time or can be removed via impeachment under the Constitution.
The President has the authority to appoint the Prime Minister, other ministers, judges, and other key officials. He or she can dissolve the Lok Sabha, promulgate ordinances when Parliament is not in session, and declare a state of emergency in certain circumstances. The President’s role, while largely ceremonial, has a significant impact on upholding democratic values and constitutional integrity.
| Article No. | Subject Matter |
|---|---|
| Article 52 | The President of India |
| Article 53 | Executive Power of the Union |
| Article 54 | Election of President |
| Article 58 | Qualifications for Election as President |
| Article 60 | Oath or Affirmation by the President |
| Article 61 | Procedure for Impeachment of the President |
| Article 62 | Time of Holding Election to Fill the Vacancy in the Office of President |
| Article 65 | Vice-President to Act as President or to Discharge His Functions |
| Article 71 | Matters Relating to the Election of President |
| Article 72 | Power of the President to Grant Pardons, etc., and to Suspend, Remit, or Commute Sentences in Certain Cases |
| Article 74 | Council of Ministers to Aid and Advise the President |
| Article 85 | Sessions of Parliament, Prorogation, and Dissolution |
| Article 111 | Assent to Bills Passed by the Parliament |
| Article 112 | Union Budget (Annual Financial Statement) |
| Article 123 | Power of the President to Promulgate Ordinances |
| Article 143 | Power of the President to Consult the Supreme Court |
Interesting Facts About India’s Presidents
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad is the only President who served two terms.
- The first woman President was Pratibha Patil (2007–2012).
- Zakir Husain and Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed both passed away during their terms.
- V.V. Giri was the only independent candidate to win a Presidential election.
- Giani Zail Singh was the first Sikh President of India.
- The President’s Rule (Article 356) allows the central government to assume direct control of a state if its governance collapses.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Office of the President | - The President of India is the constitutional head and highest office under India's constitutional framework. |
| Roles | - Head of the Indian State - First citizen of India - Titular or de jure head of the Union Executive - Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces |
| Union Executive Components | - President of India - Vice-President of India - Prime Minister of India - Council of Ministers - Attorney General of India |
| Constitutional Articles (President) | Articles 52-78 in Part V deal with the Union Executive, covering provisions related to election, qualifications, impeachment, powers, and functions of the President. |
| Election of President | - Elected by an electoral college (not directly elected by people) |
| Electoral College Members | - Voting Members: Elected members of both Houses of Parliament, Legislative Assemblies of States, and Assemblies of Union Territories of Delhi and Puducherry - Non-voting Members: Nominated members of Parliament and State Assemblies, members of State Legislative Councils, nominated members of Assemblies of Union Territories |
| Vote Calculation | - MLA Vote Value: (State population / Total elected MLAs in State) × 1/1000 - MP Vote Value: (Total MLA vote values across States / Total elected MPs) |
| Electoral Quota | - Required for winning: (Total valid votes / 2) + 1 - Voting method: Proportional Representation with single transferable vote (secret ballot) |
| Reason for Indirect Election | - President is a nominal head; real powers lie with the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers - Direct election would be costly and time-consuming for a ceremonial role |
| Election Disputes | - Handled by the Supreme Court; the decision is final - Election cannot be contested due to an incomplete Electoral College - Acts performed by President before a voided election remain valid |
| Qualifications | - Citizen of India - Minimum 35 years of age - Qualified for Lok Sabha election - Not holding an office of profit (certain exceptions apply for sitting President, Vice-President, Governor, and Ministers) |
| Nomination Requirements | - Minimum 50 proposers and 50 seconders - Security deposit of ₹15,000 in RBI, forfeited if less than 1/6 of votes secured |
| Oath of Office | - Administered by the Chief Justice of India (or senior-most Supreme Court judge if unavailable) - President swears to: Execute duties faithfully, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, serve the well-being of Indian people |
| Conditions of Office | - Cannot be a member of Parliament or State Legislature; must vacate other roles upon election - Must not hold another office of profit |
| Entitlements | - Official residence at Rashtrapati Bhavan (no rent) - Salary: ₹5 lakhs per month (cannot be reduced during term) - Other allowances as determined by Parliament |
| Immunities | - Personal immunity for official acts - Immune from criminal proceedings during term (even for personal acts) - Civil proceedings require two months’ notice |
| Term of Office | - 5 years from office entry - Can continue until successor takes office - Eligible for re-election |
| Resignation | - Addressed to the Vice-President of India |
| Impeachment | - Grounds: Violation of the Constitution - Procedure: Initiated by either Parliament House with 1/4 member signatures and 14-days' notice; requires 2/3 majority in each House for approval - Right to defense: President can represent during investigation |
| Vacancy | - Causes: Term expiration, impeachment, resignation, death, disqualification, or void election - Temporary Vacancy Handling: Vice-President acts as President; if Vice-President is unavailable, Chief Justice or senior Supreme Court judge steps in - Election for a new President within six months |
| Powers and Functions | - Executive Powers: Appoints key officials and advisors - Legislative Powers: Can summon and dissolve Parliament - Financial Powers: Union Budget management - Judicial Powers: Pardoning authority - Diplomatic Powers: Manages foreign relations - Military Powers: Commander-in-Chief - Emergency Powers: Can declare emergencies (national, state, financial) - Ordinance Making Power and Veto Power |
| Constitutional Position | - Nominal head under the parliamentary system, acting on the advice of the Council of Ministers except in situational discretion |
| Discretionary Powers | - Situational discretion in cases like Prime Minister's appointment without majority, dismissal of Council of Ministers if majority lost, and Lok Sabha dissolution if Council loses majority |
| Important Articles Related | - Article 52: President of India - Article 53: Executive Power of the Union - Article 54: Election of President - Article 58: Qualifications - Article 60: Oath of Office - Article 61: Impeachment Procedure - Article 72: Pardoning Power - Article 123: Ordinance Power - Article 143: Supreme Court Consultation |
Conclusion
The Presidents of India have contributed immensely to the country's democratic framework. Each President has brought unique experiences and perspectives, helping to guide the nation through critical junctures and uphold the Constitution's spirit. This illustrious lineage of Presidents underscores India's commitment to democratic principles and a secular, inclusive society. The President of India stands as a testament to India’s enduring faith in its republican ideals, constitutional integrity, and unity.
