Abstract
The executive is one of the three important organs of government and plays a significant role in the administration of the state. In modern democratic systems, the role of the executive has expanded beyond merely implementing laws. The executive now actively participates in law-making, policy formulation, financial administration, and governance. In India, the executive influences legislation through government bills, ordinance-making powers, delegated legislation, and policy decisions. Public policy is also largely shaped and implemented by the executive through ministries, administrative agencies, and government departments. This paper examines the role of the executive in law-making and public policy, its functions, powers, relationship with the legislature, and the challenges arising from increasing executive dominance in governance.
Keywords: Executive, Law-Making, Public Policy, Legislature, Ordinance-Making, Delegated Legislation, Governance, Indian Constitution, Policy Formulation, Administrative Law, Parliamentary System, Executive Powers, Public Administration, Democratic Accountability, Welfare State.
- Introduction
The executive is the branch of government responsible for carrying out laws and administering the affairs of the state. In every democratic system, the executive performs a central role in governance because it is directly involved in implementing laws, maintaining public order, and ensuring effective administration. Traditionally, the legislature was regarded as the law-making body while the executive merely executed laws passed by the legislature. However, in modern welfare states, the role of the executive has expanded significantly due to increasing governmental responsibilities and complex administrative needs.
In countries with parliamentary systems such as India, the executive exercises considerable influence over the legislative process. The executive drafts bills, formulates public policies, prepares budgets, and even possesses ordinance-making powers during emergencies. With the rise of administrative governance and welfare policies, the executive has become the driving force behind public administration and policy implementation. Therefore, understanding the role of the executive in law-making and public policy is essential for understanding modern constitutional governance.