Principal functions of the executive

Following are the main functions of the executive:

1. Administrative Functions: The main function of the executive is to direct and supervise the execution of law. To achieve this end, the executive performs various functions such as appointment, transfer and dismissal of heads of the departments and of the subordinate officials. It maintains law and order in the state. One or more than one department are controlled by a minister and he is responsible for the efficient administration of the department. Each department enforces the laws which concern its working. The executive is to see that all the laws are properly obeyed and respected and those who break the laws are punished. The object of the punishment is to reform the criminal.
2.  Policy Formation: The executive formulates the general policies of the state. Internal as well as external policies are formulated by the executive. In Parliamentary government, policies are formulated by the executive but they are approved by the legislature. But in Presidential Government policies are formulated by the executive and no approval is needed by the legislature.
3. Appointments: All major appointments are made by the executive. In India, the executive appoints Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts of the various states, Ambassadors, Chairman and members of the Union Public Service Commission, AttorneyGeneral, Chiefs of Army, Air Force and Navy, Governors etc. In U.S.A., all major appointments are made by the President with the approval of the Senate. The executive also enjoys the power of removal.
4. Military Functions: Military functions consist in exercising supreme command over the Army, Navy and Air Force. The Indian President is the Supreme Commander of the armed forces. The executive appoints officers to the armed forces and in some countries, it has the right to declare war. To secure obedience to the laws of the State, to maintain peace and to defend the country against the foreign attack is the responsibility of the executive. Executive is responsible for the preservation of perfect peace and security in the country. It has to keep internal peace, by putting down all those factors which disturb the peace of the country. In some countries, the executive has the authority to declare war. The executive is also empowered to declare martial law during emergencies.