Understanding India's Parliament: Rajya Sabha vs Lok Sabha
Explore the structure of the Indian Parliament, comparing Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha roles, membership, powers, and legislative processes for students.
The Parliament of India
Structure, Composition, and Functions of Sansad - A Comprehensive Overview for Students
Parliament Overview
India follows a Bicameral Legislature system consisting of the President and two houses.
It is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India.
Consists of the President, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha), and the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
Sessions of Parliament
Budget Session: The longest session, typically held from February to May, focusing on the annual financial statement.
Monsoon Session: Usually held in July and August to discuss legislation and pressing national issues.
Winter Session: The shortest session, held in November and December to conclude the parliamentary year.
Lok Sabha: The Lower House
Known as the 'House of the People', the Lok Sabha is composed of representatives of the people chosen by direct election on the basis of universal adult suffrage. It is the real center of power in the Indian democratic system. The Speaker presides over its sessions.
Lok Sabha: Composition & Tenure
550
Maximum Permissible Members
5 Years
Normal Term Duration
25 Years
Minimum Age to Contest
Powers of Lok Sabha
Money Bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
Vote of No-Confidence against the government can only be passed here.
Decides the financial direction of the nation through the Budget.
Participates effectively in the election and impeachment of the President and Judges.
Qualifications for Membership (Lok Sabha)
Citizenship: Must be a citizen of India.
Age: Must be at least 25 years of age.
Legal Standing: Must not hold any office of profit and must possess other qualifications as prescribed by Parliament.
Rajya Sabha: The Upper House
The 'Council of States' represents the federal character of the nation. It is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution. The Vice-President of India acts as the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
Rajya Sabha: Composition
Members are elected by the Legislative Assemblies of States and Union Territories. 12 members are nominated by the President for their expertise in Art, Literature, Science, and Social Service.
Special Powers of Rajya Sabha
State List Legislation: Can authorize Parliament to make a law on a subject enumerated in the State List.
All India Services: Exclusive power to authorize the creation of new All India Services common to both the Centre and States.
Can approve the proclamation of Emergency if the Lok Sabha acts dissolution.
Election & Composition of Rajya Sabha
Indirect Election: Members are elected by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.
Proportional Representation: The election follows the system of proportional representation by means of a single transferable vote.
Term: It is a permanent body; one-third of its members retire every two years.
Similarities Between Houses
Ordinary Bills can be introduced in either House.
Equal power in the impeachment of the President.
Equal power in amending the Constitution.
Both maintain the same privileges and immunities for members.
Differences: Part I
Election Mode
Directly by People
Indirectly by MLAs
Minimum Age
25 Years
30 Years
Presiding Officer
Speaker
Chairman (Vice-President)
Differences: Part II
Tenure
5 Years (can dissolve)
6 Years (Permanent Body)
Money Bills
Can Introduce & Vote
14 Days to Suggest, No Vote
Executive Control
Council responsible to it
No Motion of No-confidence
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