What is Parliamentary Sessions?
Historical Background
Key Points
8 points- 1.
The President summons each House of Parliament to meet at such time and place as he thinks fit (Article 85).
- 2.
There must not be a gap of more than six months between two sessions, implying Parliament must meet at least twice a year.
- 3.
Typically, there are three main sessions: Budget Session (February-May), Monsoon Session (July-September), and Winter Session (November-December).
- 4.
A session begins with the President's summons and ends with prorogation by the President or dissolution of the Lok Sabha.
- 5.
During a session, various types of sittings occur, including Question Hour, Zero Hour, debates, and legislative business.
- 6.
The Presiding Officer (Speaker of Lok Sabha, Chairman of Rajya Sabha) regulates the business and proceedings of the House during a session.
- 7.
Sessions are vital for legislative work, financial approvals (e.g., budget), and holding the executive accountable through various parliamentary devices.
- 8.
Key terms related to sessions include adjournment (suspending sitting for a specified time), prorogation (termination of a session), and dissolution (ending the life of Lok Sabha).
Visual Insights
Lifecycle of a Parliamentary Session in India
This flowchart illustrates the key stages and constitutional roles involved in the functioning of a parliamentary session, from its commencement to its conclusion.
- 1.President summons Parliament (Article 85)
- 2.Session Begins: Houses meet
- 3.President's Address (Budget Session/First Session after General Election)
- 4.Legislative Business, Debates, Oversight
- 5.Adjournment (Presiding Officer suspends work for a specified time)
- 6.Adjournment Sine Die (Presiding Officer suspends work indefinitely)
- 7.President Prorogues Parliament (Article 85 - terminates session)
- 8.Dissolution of Lok Sabha (President - ends term of LS)
Recent Developments
5 developmentsOngoing debates regarding the duration and productivity of parliamentary sessions, often impacted by disruptions.
Increased use of ordinances when Parliament is not in session, raising questions about legislative scrutiny.
Concerns about reduced time for detailed legislative scrutiny of bills due to frequent adjournments.
Introduction of special sessions for specific legislative agenda, such as the Women's Reservation Bill.
Discussions on adapting parliamentary procedures with technology, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.