Art. 87 Part V: The Union

Special Address by the President

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the House of the People and at the commencement of the first session of each year, the President shall address both Houses of Parliament assembled together and inform Parliament of the causes of its summons. (2) Provision shall be made by the rules regulating the procedure of either House for the allotment of time for discussion of the matters referred to in such address.

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

This Article specifically requires the President's annual address — delivered at the start of the first session after each general election and at the start of each year's first session — outlining the government's agenda, with Parliament then specifically setting aside time to debate the matters raised in it.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is the constitutional basis for the President's well-known annual address to Parliament (often covered extensively in the news) — a significant ceremonial and substantive moment where the government's policy priorities for the year are formally laid out.

Read alongside this one

Art. 86 — Right of President to Address and Send Messages to Houses

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 87

Does the President write this address personally?

No — consistent with Article 74's framework, the address is prepared by the government and reflects its policy agenda, even though it's formally delivered by the President as head of state.

← PreviousArticle 86: Right of President to Address and Send Messages to Houses Next →Article 88: Rights of Ministers and Attorney-General as Respects the Houses

The text above reproduces Article 87 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.