Ever since its independence from the British Raj in 1947, India has been a federal constitutional republic governed under a parliamentary system laid down by the Constitution of India. According to the Constitution, the Prime Minister is the chief executive head of the country vested with powers for the smooth functioning and working of the country. Though the country also has a presidential post, the role of the President is largely ceremonial and his de facto powers are usually exuded by the Prime Minister. Till date, India has had fifteen appointed Prime Ministers. The first and longest serving prime minister of India, when Jawaharlal Nehru took up the office, India was reeling from the effects of partition. Despite strenuous situation, Nehru propelled India towards advancement, bringing forth radical changes in the country’s domestic, international, social and economic policies. His term of 16 years was succeeded by Lal Bahadur Shastri. Indira Gandhi became the first woman premier. Her son, Rajiv Gandhi, too, took up premiership, thus becoming the youngest PM of India. Current PM, Narendra Modi rise to the office has been historic in Indian governance. A charismatic yet controversial leader, Modi’s no-nonsense spirit and can-do leadership skills have earned him reputation around the globe. His ambitious projects have truly made him the hope of aspirational India! Check this section to get details about the life and works of Indian Prime Ministers.
