The President of India is the ceremonial head of state, embodying the unity and integrity of the nation. While the Prime Minister holds executive power, the President plays a crucial role in the functioning of the Indian government.

The President is elected indirectly by an electoral college comprising elected members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and the legislative assemblies of the states and union territories with legislatures.

Key duties of the President include: appointing the Prime Minister and other ministers; summoning and proroguing Parliament; giving assent to bills passed by Parliament to become laws; promulgating ordinances when Parliament is not in session; and representing India in international forums.

The President is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The President holds office for a term of five years and can be re-elected. Importantly, the President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, making the office largely symbolic but still holding significant constitutional importance. The President serves as a guardian of the Constitution and upholds its values.
