Why in News?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has issued notification for elections to 37 Rajya Sabha seats, with polling scheduled in March 2026, as the terms of these members are expiring in April.
Rajya Sabha – Key Features:
Maximum Strength: 245 members
- 233 elected from States & UTs
- 12 nominated by the President
Nature of House:
- Permanent body (cannot be dissolved)
- Ensures continuity in Parliament
Tenure:
- Each member serves 6 years
- 1/3rd members retire every 2 years (biennial elections)
- Based on Article 83(1)
Composition & Representation:
- Allocation of seats is based on population.
- Governed by the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution.
Nominated Members (Article 80(3)):
- 12 members nominated by the President of India.
- Chosen from fields like:
- Literature
- Science
- Art
- Social Service
- They may join a political party within 6 months of taking their seat