Home The Constitution Part V Article 117

Art. 117 Part V: The Union

Special Provisions as to Financial Bills

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) A Bill or amendment making provision for any of the matters specified in sub-clauses (a) to (f) of clause (1) of article 110 shall not be introduced or moved except on the recommendation of the President and a Bill making such provision shall not be introduced in the Council of States... (3) A Bill which, if enacted and brought into operation, would involve expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India shall not be passed by either House of Parliament unless the President has recommended to that House the consideration of the Bill.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article covers 'Financial Bills' — a broader category than strict Money Bills, which touch on financial matters but may also include other provisions. These require the President's prior recommendation for introduction, and (for the specific matters mirroring Money Bill subjects) can't be introduced in the Rajya Sabha at all; more generally, ANY bill involving Consolidated Fund expenditure needs the President's recommendation before either House can pass it.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This Article ensures the executive branch (through the President's recommendation requirement, exercised on ministerial advice) retains meaningful oversight and initiative over legislation with financial implications — Parliament can't simply legislate new government spending obligations without the executive's prior sign-off on even considering such a bill.

Read alongside this one

Art. 110 — Definition of 'Money Bills'

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 117

What's the difference between a 'Money Bill' (Article 110) and a 'Financial Bill' (this Article)?

A Money Bill deals EXCLUSIVELY with the specific financial matters listed in Article 110(1); a Financial Bill under this Article may touch on those same matters but also include other, non-financial provisions — meaning it doesn't get the same restrictive Rajya Sabha treatment as a pure Money Bill, though it still needs the President's prior recommendation.

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The text above reproduces Article 117 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.