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Updated August 13th, 2018 at 18:11 IST

Lesser-known facts about being a President

Lesser-known facts about being a President

Reported by: Saniya Rao
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India on Tuesday welcomed its newly-elected President Ram Nath Kovind as he took oath as the 14th President of India in New Delhi. Mr. Kovind was received at Parliament where he was sworn in by the Chief Justice of India J.S. Khehar.

Here are some lesser-known things about the post and what it entails:

Income of the President

As per the Constitution of India, the Parliament determines the salary and allowance of the President of India. However, on September 11, 2008, the Government of India made the salary of the President  Rs 1.5 lakh.

Earlier this year, reports surfaced regarding the Government’s plan to increase the salary of the President, Vice President, and Governors. But the file is currently awaiting approval from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO)

President's Residence

The Rashtrapati Bhavan is the official residence of the Indian President and also happens to be the largest Presidential Palace in the world. The Rashtrapati Bhavan covers an area of 330 acres with a built up area of 200,000 sq ft dividing into 340 rooms in a single story building. The Raisina is home to gardens, museums, ceremonial hall, large open spaces and residences of the staff — all under one roof.

Apart from the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the Rashtrapati Nilayam at Bolarum and Retreat Building at Shimla are the official Retreat Residences of the President of India.

Maintenance budget for the President

The President is allotted of up to Rs 30 crore for the upkeep of his home. He is also allocated an independent budget of by the Government to handle expenses incurred in his official capacity.

President's travel

The President travels with a cavalcade of approximately 25 cars. The official State car is a Black Mercedes Benz S600 (W221) Pullman Guard which meets requirements of the highest protection class VR6/VR7. It is also designed to protect against military rifle shots and offers resistance against fragments from hand grenades and explosives. Furthermore, the President and the spouse can travel to anyplace in the world free of cost.

Post-retirement perks for the President

At the time of retirement, the President receives a pension of Rs. 75,000 a month along with furnished rent free bungalow for a stay, two free landlines to communicate, five personal staff and an amount as staff expenses. The former President is also given 250 litres of free petrol and is allowed free travel with a companion by air and by train.

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Published July 25th, 2017 at 17:05 IST

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