Part V - The Union • Article

Article 73 Simplified: Extent of executive power of the Union

Article 73 defines the 'Boundary' of the Central Government's power. It says the Union Government can exercise its power over any subject where the Parliament can make laws (like Defense, Railways, or Banking). It also says the Union can handle matters coming from international treaties.

Official Text

(1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the executive power of the Union shall extend— (a) to the matters with respect to which Parliament has power to make laws; and (b) to the exercise of such rights, authority and jurisdiction as are exercisable by the Government of India by virtue of any treaty or agreement: Provided that the executive power referred to in sub-clause (a) shall not, save as expressly provided in this Constitution or in any law made by Parliament, extend in any State *** to matters with respect to which the Legislature of the State has also power to make laws. (2) Until otherwise provided by Parliament, a State and any officer or authority of a State may, notwithstanding anything in this article, continue to exercise in matters with respect to which Parliament has power to make laws for that State such executive power or functions as the State or officer or authority thereof could exercise immediately before the commencement of this Constitution.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Article 73 is like a boundary line that says what rules the national government can enforce. It can make and enforce rules on any topic that Parliament can make laws about.

Student Mode

Establishes that the executive power of the Union is co-extensive with the legislative competence of Parliament, extending to all matters on which Parliament can legislate (Union and Concurrent List subjects).

Example

Because 'Defense' is a subject for Parliament, the Union Executive (the Cabinet) has full power to manage the Army and sign defense deals under Article 73.

Key Takeaway

The Union's power matches the Parliament's law-making reach.

FAQs

What is the boundary of the Union's executive power?

It is co-extensive with Parliament's power to make laws, meaning the Centre handles subjects in the Union and Concurrent lists.

Does the Union executive have power over state subjects?

No, unless specifically provided by the Constitution or treaties.

Quiz

The executive power of the Union is co-extensive with which body's law-making power?

Answer: The Parliament

Under Article 73, the Union's executive power generally extends to which subjects?

Answer: Union and Concurrent Lists