Polity

President of India: Election, Powers, Impeachment

The President is the head of the Indian State (Article 52) and is elected for a five-year term by an electoral college of the elected members of both Houses of Parliament and of the State Legislative Assemblies. The President acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers (Article 74).

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

Election and eligibility

Election is by proportional representation using the single transferable vote, by secret ballot (Article 55).
The electoral college includes elected members of both Houses of Parliament and of State Legislative Assemblies, including the Union Territories of Delhi and Puducherry. Nominated members do not vote.
Qualifications (Article 58): a citizen of India, at least 35 years old, and qualified to be elected to the Lok Sabha.
Term is five years (Article 56). The President may resign by writing to the Vice-President.

Important powers

Ordinance-making (Article 123) when Parliament is not in session. An ordinance must be approved within six weeks of Parliament reassembling.
Pardoning power (Article 72): pardon, reprieve, respite, remission and commutation, including for death sentences.
Appoints the Prime Minister, other ministers, the Chief Justice and judges, the Attorney General, the CAG and others.
Summons and prorogues Parliament and can dissolve the Lok Sabha.

Impeachment

The President can be removed only for violation of the Constitution (Article 61). The charge must be moved in either House with the signatures of at least one-fourth of its members, and the resolution must be passed by two-thirds of the total membership of that House and then of the other House.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to become President of India?

35 years.

Which article gives the President the power of pardon?

Article 72.

Is the President bound by the advice of the Council of Ministers?

Yes. After the 42nd and 44th Amendments the President must act on its advice, though may ask for reconsideration once.