With reference to the powers and functions of the Cabinet, briefly state the following:

(a) Three Administrative Functions.

(b) Three Legislative Functions.

(c) Four Financial Functions.

(a) Three administrative functions of the Cabinet are as follows-

1. Policy Making — The Cabinet formulates both external and domestic policies of the Government. Individual Ministers have reasonable freedom of action, but on all major matters they have to consult the Cabinet.
2. Implementation of Policies — Once a policy decision is taken by the Cabinet on any subject, it is conveyed to the Minister of State and the Deputy Minister of the concerned Ministry. They work out the details and pass it to the civil servants under that Ministry to implement the decision.
3. Coordinating the Functioning of Various Ministers — The Cabinet coordinates the working of various departments for the smooth implementation of government policies.

(b) Three legislative functions of the Cabinet are as follows-

1. Amendment to the Constitution — The Cabinet is instrumental in planning and moving the Amendment to the Constitution.
2. Summoning the Houses of Parliament — Although the Houses are summoned by the President, initiative in this matter is taken by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.
3. Issuing Ordinances — Cabinet also advises the President to issue ordinances when the Parliament is not in session.

(c) Four financial functions of the Cabinet are as follows-

1. Budget — The Finance Minister prepares the Annual Budget containing estimates of income and expenditure for the ensuing year.
   
   1. Though the budget is passed by Parliament, usually no changes are made in the budget figures against the wishes of the Cabinet.
   2. Any amendment to the budget proposals against the wishes of the Cabinet that may be passed by the Lok Sabha amounts to a vote of No-Confidence in the Ministry. It happens only when the Ministry has lost the support of the majority in the Lok Sabha. In such a situation the Ministry must resign.
2. Finances of the Government — The Cabinet is responsible for the expenditure of the government for presenting the demand for grants and also for raising necessary income by various means including taxation.
3. Introduction of Money Bills — A Money Bill can be introduced in the Lok Sabha only by a Minister.