Which committee is considered the most powerful branch within the NPC?

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC) is indeed considered the most powerful branch within the NPC. This committee plays a crucial role in the legislative process, as it has the authority to make decisions on various matters when the full NPC is not in session. It also has the power to interpret laws and oversee the implementation of legislation.

The Standing Committee consists of a smaller group of members that allows for more efficient governance and quicker decision-making than the broader legislative body of the NPC, which meets infrequently. Furthermore, the Standing Committee's composition often includes high-ranking party officials, giving it significant influence over Chinese politics and governance.

This structure places the Standing Committee at the center of policymaking within the framework of the NPC, making it the most powerful entity in this context.