Home The Constitution Part VI Article 176

Art. 176 Part VI: The States

Special Address by the Governor

Exact text — Constitution of India

(1) At the commencement of the first session after each general election to the Legislative Assembly and at the commencement of the first session of each year, the Governor shall address the Legislative Assembly or, in the case of a State having a Legislative Council, both Houses assembled together, and inform the Legislature of the causes of its summons. (2) Provision shall be made by the rules regulating the procedure of the House or 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

The state-level counterpart to Article 87 — the Governor must deliver an annual address at the start of each year's first session (and after each general election), outlining the government's agenda, with the House specifically setting aside time to debate it.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This is the constitutional basis for the Governor's annual address to the State Legislature — the state equivalent of the President's national address, similarly reflecting the state government's own policy priorities even though formally delivered by the Governor.

Read alongside this one

Art. 87 — Special Address by the President

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 176

Does the Governor write this address personally?

No — like the President's address, it's prepared by the state government reflecting its own policy agenda, delivered by the Governor as the state's formal head.

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The text above reproduces Article 176 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.