🇮🇳 Rajya Sabha – Composition, Role & Federal Significance

The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament. It represents the interests of the States and acts as a stabilizing force in the legislative system.

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🏛️ What is Rajya Sabha?

Rajya Sabha is a permanent house, which means it cannot be dissolved. Unlike the Lok Sabha, it continues functioning even when the lower house is dissolved.

This permanent nature ensures continuity and experience in law-making.

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👥 Composition of Rajya Sabha

According to the Constitution, the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is:

• Total members: 250
• Elected members: 238
• Nominated members: 12

The nominated members are chosen by the President from fields such as literature, science, art, and social service.

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🗳️ Election of Members

Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected through indirect elections.

• Elected by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies
• Single Transferable Vote system
• Proportional representation

This method ensures that States are represented in proportion to their population.

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⏳ Term of Members

The term of a Rajya Sabha member is:

• Six years

One-third of the members retire every two years. This system provides continuity and stability.

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⚖️ Powers and Functions

Rajya Sabha performs several important legislative functions:

• Participates in law-making
• Reviews and revises bills passed by Lok Sabha
• Discusses national and state-related issues
• Exercises control over the Executive

However, its powers over Money Bills are limited.

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🏛️ Role in Federal System

India follows a federal structure, and Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in maintaining it.

• Protects interests of States
• Balances dominance of Lok Sabha
• Provides forum for regional issues

Therefore, Rajya Sabha is often described as the guardian of federalism in India.

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🔍 Exam-Oriented Key Points

• Rajya Sabha is a permanent house
• Term of members – 6 years
• 12 members nominated by the President
• Limited powers over Money Bills

Comparative questions between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are common in competitive examinations.

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📌 Conclusion

Rajya Sabha strengthens the Indian Parliament by ensuring that state interests and long-term perspectives are considered in national law-making.

Voice of States → Strength of Federalism 🇮🇳