Kerala operates under a parliamentary democratic system as a state within the Republic of India. The executive branch is nominally headed by the Governor, who is appointed by the President of India. However, true executive authority rests with the Chief Minister and their Council of Ministers, who are elected members of the ruling party or coalition in the state legislature.
The state has a unicameral legislature—the Kerala Legislative Assembly (Niyamasabha)—consisting of 140 elected members. At the national level, Kerala sends 20 members to the Lok Sabha (lower house) and 9 members to the Rajya Sabha (upper house). Administratively, the state is divided into 14 districts, which are further subdivided into taluks and villages. Kerala is exceptionally noted for its strong implementation of the Panchayati Raj system, delegating significant administrative and financial powers to local self-governments (panchayats and municipalities).