With reference to the Union Budget, consider the following statements: The Union Finance Minister on behalf of the Prime Minister lays the Annual Financial Statement before both the Houses of Parliament.

With reference to the Union Budget, consider the following statements:

1. The Union Finance Minister on behalf of the Prime Minister lays the Annual Financial Statement before both the Houses of Parliament.
2. At the Union level, no demand for a grant can be made except on the recommendation of the President of India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Union Finance Minister lays the Annual Financial Statement (Union Budget) before both Houses of Parliament on behalf of the President of India, not the Prime Minister.

Statement 2 is correct. At the Union level, no demand for a grant can be made except on the recommendation of the President of India.
Possible Sources: The Constitution of India and procedures related to the Union Budget.