Part V - Parliament • Article

Article 87 Simplified: Special address by the President

Every year's first session and the very first session after a new election MUST start with a speech by the President to both Houses together. In this speech, the President outlines the government's plans for the year.

Official Text

(1) At the commencement of [the first session after each general election to the House of the People and at the commencement of the first session of each year] the President shall address both Houses of Parliament assembled together and inform Parliament of the causes of its summons. (2) Provision shall be made by the rules regulating the procedure of either House for the allotment of time for discussion of the matters referred to in such address ***.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Every year, before Parliament starts working, the President of India gives a special speech to all the MPs together — in the Lok Sabha chamber. In this speech, the President reads out what the government plans to do for the next year. It's like a 'State of the Nation' speech. This speech is actually written by the Cabinet, not the President personally.

Student Mode

Article 87 makes it a constitutional duty (not just a privilege) for the President to address a joint sitting of both Houses at two mandatory occasions: (1) the first session after each General Election to the Lok Sabha, and (2) the first session of each year. This speech sets out the government's agenda and policy priorities. In practice, the speech is prepared by the Council of Ministers (reflecting parliamentary democracy). It is known as the 'President's Address' or 'Address to the Nation'.

Example

The 'President's Address' at the start of the Budget Session is a major event where the vision of the government is presented to the nation.

Key Takeaway

Every new year of Parliament starts with the President's vision.

FAQs

How is the President's Address different from the Budget?

The President's Address outlines the government's policy priorities and is a constitutional requirement (Article 87). The Budget (Annual Financial Statement under Article 112) is presented by the Finance Minister and details income and expenditure plans.

Who actually writes the President's Address under Article 87?

The Council of Ministers drafts the address. The President reads it but does not write it — this reflects the principle that the President acts on the advice of the Cabinet.

What happens after the President's Address?

Both Houses debate the President's Address (known as the Motion of Thanks). This is a tradition where MPs debate government policy, and the government must respond.

Quiz

Article 87 mandates the President to address Parliament jointly at:

Answer: The first session after each General Election and the first session of each year

The President's Address under Article 87 is debated in Parliament as:

Answer: The Motion of Thanks