What is Rajya Sabha?
Historical Background
Key Points
10 points- 1.
Provided for under Article 80 of the Constitution of India.
- 2.
Maximum strength is 250 members: 238 elected representatives of states and Union Territories, and 12 nominated by the President for their special knowledge or practical experience in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
- 3.
Current strength is 245 members.
- 4.
Members are indirectly elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the States and Union Territories by means of proportional representation by a single transferable vote.
- 5.
It is a permanent house and is not subject to dissolution; one-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring continuity.
- 6.
The term of a member of the Rajya Sabha is six years.
- 7.
Possesses special powers under Article 249 (Parliament to legislate on a matter in the State List if Rajya Sabha passes a resolution) and Article 312 (creation of new All India Services).
- 8.
Shares legislative powers with the Lok Sabha in most matters, but Money Bills can only originate in the Lok Sabha, and Rajya Sabha has limited powers regarding them.
- 9.
The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and a Deputy Chairman is elected from amongst its members.
- 10.
Quorum to constitute a meeting of the House is one-tenth of the total membership of the House.
Visual Insights
Rajya Sabha: Key Aspects
Mind map illustrating the key aspects and functions of the Rajya Sabha.
Rajya Sabha
- ●Composition
- ●Powers & Functions
- ●Election Process
- ●Significance
Evolution of the Rajya Sabha
Timeline showing the key milestones in the evolution of the Rajya Sabha.
The Rajya Sabha evolved from the Council of States established during British rule. Its role has been refined over time through constitutional amendments and legislative changes.
- 1919Government of India Act establishes Council of States
- 1950Constitution of India adopted, establishing Rajya Sabha
- 1952Rajya Sabha formally constituted on April 3, first session on May 13
- 1985Anti-Defection Law (52nd Amendment) impacts Rajya Sabha membership
- 200391st Amendment Act strengthens Anti-Defection Law
- 2019Reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir alters Rajya Sabha representation
- 2026Maharashtra Rajya Sabha elections test MVA unity
Recent Developments
3 developmentsRajya Sabha plays a crucial role in scrutinizing legislation passed by the Lok Sabha, often leading to amendments or delays.
The composition of Rajya Sabha reflects the political landscape of the states, influencing the passage of government bills.
Ongoing debates on the effectiveness of bicameralism and the specific role of Rajya Sabha in India's federal structure.