Introduction
The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the Upper House of the Indian Parliament. It represents the states and union territories of India and plays a crucial role in the legislative process. The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
This guide covers Articles 80-89 of the Indian Constitution, which define the structure, powers, and functions of Rajya Sabha. This is important for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and State PCS.
Composition of Rajya Sabha (Article 80)
- Maximum Strength: 250 members
- Elected Members: 238 members elected by State Legislative Assemblies.
- Nominated Members: 12 members nominated by the President from fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
- Current Strength: 245 members (as of 2024).
Election of Members
- Members are elected by MLAs of respective State Assemblies through proportional representation using the single transferable vote system.
- Representatives from Union Territories are also elected.
Tenure and Membership (Article 83)
- Rajya Sabha is a permanent body; it cannot be dissolved.
- Tenure of Members: 6 years, with one-third of members retiring every two years.
Qualifications for Membership (Article 84)
A person must:
- Be an Indian citizen.
- Be at least 30 years old.
- Be registered as a voter in any state/UT.
- Possess other qualifications as prescribed by Parliament.
Disqualification of Members (Article 102)
A member can be disqualified if they:
- Hold an office of profit under the government.
- Are of unsound mind.
- Are undischarged insolvent (bankrupt).
- Are disqualified under anti-defection law (10th Schedule).
Presiding Officers of Rajya Sabha
1. Chairman of Rajya Sabha (Vice President of India) – Article 89
- The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
- Does not vote, except in case of a tie.
2. Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- Elected by Rajya Sabha members from among themselves.
- Presides over the House in the absence of the Chairman.
Powers and Functions of Rajya Sabha
1. Legislative Powers
- Can introduce and pass Ordinary Bills.
- Cannot introduce Money Bills (Article 110).
2. Financial Powers
- Cannot initiate Money Bills, but can suggest amendments.
- Must return Money Bills within 14 days, but Lok Sabha is not bound to accept its recommendations.
3. Executive Powers
- Rajya Sabha does not control the government directly.
- However, ministers, including the Prime Minister, can be from Rajya Sabha.
4. Amendment Powers
- Can participate in amending the Constitution under Article 368.
5. Judicial Powers
- Participates in the impeachment of the President (Article 61).
- Can recommend the removal of judges of the Supreme Court and High Court.
6. Special Powers of Rajya Sabha
1. Article 249 – Power to Make Laws on State List
- Rajya Sabha can allow Parliament to make laws on a State List subject if approved by a two-thirds majority.
2. Article 312 – Creation of All India Services
- Rajya Sabha can recommend the creation of new All India Services, such as IAS, IPS, IFS.
Sessions of Rajya Sabha (Article 85)
- Summoned by the President at least twice a year.
- Maximum gap between sessions: 6 months.
- Three Sessions:
- Budget Session (Feb-May)
- Monsoon Session (July-Sept)
- Winter Session (Nov-Dec)
Comparison: Rajya Sabha vs Lok Sabha
| Feature | Rajya Sabha | Lok Sabha |
|---|---|---|
| Tenure | Permanent | 5 years |
| Membership | 245 members | 543 members |
| Presiding Officer | Vice President (Chairman) | Speaker |
| Money Bill Power | Cannot introduce | Can introduce |
| Control over Government | Indirect | Direct |
| Dissolution | Cannot be dissolved | Can be dissolved |
MCQs on Rajya Sabha
1. What is the maximum strength of Rajya Sabha?
A) 245
B) 250
C) 238
D) 252
Answer: B) 250
2. Who is the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
A) President of India
B) Prime Minister of India
C) Speaker of Lok Sabha
D) Vice President of India
Answer: D) Vice President of India
3. What is the tenure of Rajya Sabha members?
A) 5 years
B) 6 years
C) 4 years
D) Permanent
Answer: B) 6 years
4. Which Article provides for Rajya Sabha to pass a resolution for Parliament to make laws on a State List subject?
A) Article 110
B) Article 312
C) Article 249
D) Article 356
Answer: C) Article 249
5. Can Rajya Sabha be dissolved?
A) Yes
B) No
Answer: B) No
6. How many members can be nominated by the President in Rajya Sabha?
A) 10
B) 12
C) 15
D) 20
Answer: B) 12
7. What is the minimum age to become a Rajya Sabha member?
A) 21 years
B) 25 years
C) 30 years
D) 35 years
Answer: C) 30 years
8. How are Rajya Sabha members elected?
A) Direct elections
B) Indirect elections by MLAs
C) Nominated by Prime Minister
D) Elected by the President
Answer: B) Indirect elections by MLAs
9. Which Article states that the Vice President is the Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
A) Article 52
B) Article 75
C) Article 89
D) Article 100
Answer: C) Article 89
10. Which of the following is a special power of Rajya Sabha?
A) Can dissolve Lok Sabha
B) Can initiate a Money Bill
C) Can pass a resolution under Article 249
D) Can remove the President
Answer: C) Can pass a resolution under Article 249
Conclusion
Rajya Sabha plays a vital role in the Indian Parliament by representing the states and union territories. Though it does not control the government, it has special powers like allowing Parliament to make laws on State List subjects and creating All India Services.
✅ Tip for Exams: Focus on Articles 80-89, tenure, special powers, and the role of the Vice President.
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