Rajya Sabha - Council of States

Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the upper house of the Indian Parliament, designed to represent states and union territories. It comprises 245 members: 233 elected indirectly by state and union territory legislatures, and 12 nominated by the President from persons distinguished in science, arts, literature, and social services. The structure reflects India's federal system; larger states with greater populations get more seats (e.g., Uttar Pradesh has 31 seats, while smaller states have fewer). Members serve 6-year terms with no term limits; elections are staggered such that approximately one-third of members retire every 2 years, ensuring continuity and preventing complete turnover. This staggered system provides institutional stability and experience continuity. The Vice President of India serves as ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha. Rajya Sabha's legislative role is advisory and secondary: money bills must originate in Lok Sabha; Rajya Sabha can review and recommend amendments but cannot reject them. Non-money bills can originate in either house. Rajya Sabha's unique functions include ratifying constitutional amendments (requires 2/3 majority of both houses); confirming appointments of federal judges and auditors; and debating policy issues for national interest. The chamber is known for more constructive, deliberative debates compared to Lok Sabha's adversarial nature. Rajya Sabha's independence from electoral cycles (members not subject to regular re-election) allows members to focus on policy issues without immediate electoral pressure. A critical aspect: Rajya Sabha's limited legislative power combined with staggered elections results in lower public awareness compared to Lok Sabha. Additionally, nominated members sometimes lack democratic accountability to voters.