Rajya Sabha
Why it Matters?
Actor-politician Kamal Haasan and three others backed by the DMK took oath as Rajya Sabha members from Tamil Nadu, highlighting regional political dynamics in Parliament.
What You Should Know?
Rajya Sabha is the Upper House of the Indian Parliament, constituted under Article 80 of the Indian Constitution.
It represents the States and Union Territories in the federal structure of India.
The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250, as per Article 80 of the Constitution.
Out of 250 seats, 12 members are nominated by the President for their expertise in art, literature, science, and social service.
238 members are elected representatives from States and Union Territories.
The current strength is 245 members – 233 elected and 12 nominated.
Members are indirectly elected by elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies and the Electoral College of UTs.
Out of the 9 Union Territories, only 3 (Delhi, Puducherry and Jammu & Kashmir) have representation in Rajya Sabha.
Members of Rajya Sabha take oath or affirmation before the President or a person appointed by the President under the Third Schedule of the Constitution.
The oath affirms allegiance to the Constitution of India and the duty to uphold its sovereignty and integrity.
The Vice-President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Rajya Sabha is a permanent House and cannot be dissolved.
One-third of its members retire every two years, ensuring continuity.
The term of a Rajya Sabha member is six years.