"The Prime Minister is the keystone of the Cabinet arch." In the light of this statement discuss any four of his powers in relation to the Cabinet (the Council of Ministers).
Or
"Prime Minister is the Head of the Council of Ministers." Describe any four implications of this statement.

Prime Minister is "the keystone of the Cabinet arch." His role as Head of the Council of Ministers requires that he shall exercise the following powers:

1. Formation of the Cabinet — The Prime Minister is the recognised leader of the Cabinet. The President appoints Ministers and allocates work among them on the advice of the Prime Minister.
2. Removal of the Ministers — The Prime Minister's resignation means the resignation of the entire Council of Ministers. No person shall be retained as a member of the Council of Ministers if the Prime Minister says that he should be dismissed.
3. The Prime Minister is the Ex-officio Chairman of the Council of Ministers — The Prime Minister presides at the Cabinet meetings. He decides the agenda of the meetings. At Cabinet meetings, the Ministers put forth their views. The Prime Minister would listen to them and then give his own conclusion, which normally is the decision of the Cabinet.
4. He directs and co-ordinates Policy — The Prime Minister co-ordinates the working of various departments. In foreign, defence, economic and technological affairs, he plays a special role in coordinating the policy of the Union.