Governors of India 2025, State Wise List, Tenure, Eligibility, Facts

Governors of India act as the constitutional heads of their respective states, as per Article 154 of the Indian Constitution. Each state has a Governor appointed by the President of India, who serves a term of five years, although this tenure is subject to the President’s discretion. The Governor’s role is largely ceremonial, but they play an important part in ensuring the state government functions according to the Constitution. All executive actions of the state are carried out in the Governor’s name. Governors also have powers related to legislation, administration, and appointing key officials in the state.

Governors of India

Governors of India List

List of Governors of India Union Territories

First Governors of India

Governor of India Eligibility Criteria

1. The candidate must be a citizen of India.
2. They must be at least 35 years old.
3. There are no specific educational qualifications required for the role.
4. The candidate cannot hold any office of profit under the central or state government or any local authority.
5. They cannot be a Member of Parliament (MP) or a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) of any state or union territory.
6. The candidate must not be an active member of any political party or engage in political activities.
7. Once appointed, they must refrain from participating in political activities and maintain a neutral stance in their duties.
8. The candidate cannot be an employee of the Central or State Government or any Public Sector Undertaking.
9. They must be of sound mind and not have been convicted of any criminal offense.
10. They cannot serve as a Governor for more than one state simultaneously.

Governors of India Important Facts

1. Role and Powers : Governors hold a crucial constitutional position in states, acting as representatives of the President. They have substantial authority, including appointing the Chief Minister, dissolving the state government, and giving assent to bills passed by the state legislature.
2. Dual Role : Governors assume a dual responsibility, functioning both as the constitutional head of the state and as a representative of the President. This necessitates impartiality and a focus on the best interests of the state while also ensuring adherence to the constitutional framework.
3. Governor-General Legacy : The origin of the governor's role in India traces back to the colonial era when the highest authority representing the British Crown was the Governor-General. Following India's independence, the office of the Governor-General was abolished, paving the way for the establishment of the President and governors under the new constitutional framework.
4. Different Names : While the post of governor is known as "Rajyapal" in Hindi, translating to "State's Protector" or "State's Guardian," in certain states, the term "Governor-General" is used, harkening back to the historical significance of the position.
5. Protocol and Ceremonial Duties : In addition to their administrative functions, Governors also have ceremonial roles in the state. They participate in various state functions, inaugurations, and other significant events. Furthermore, they receive and host dignitaries and foreign diplomats visiting the state.