Rajya Sabha Explained for UPSC & State PSCs 2026: Powers, Members, Functions

What is Rajya Sabha?

The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the Upper House of the Indian Parliament. It represents the states and union territories of India and acts as a revising chamber.

• Mentioned under Article 79 of the Constitution
• Composition defined in Article 80

Composition of Rajya Sabha

• Maximum Strength: 250 members
  • 238 → Elected representatives of States & UTs
  • 12 → Nominated by the President
• Current Strength: 245 members

Nominated Members

The President nominates 12 members from fields like:

• Literature
• Science
• Art
• Social Service

Election of Members

• Elected by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies
• Through Proportional Representation by Single Transferable Vote (STV)

Tenure of Members

• Term: 6 years
• One-third members retire every 2 years
• It is a Permanent House (not subject to dissolution)

Presiding Officer

• Chairman: Vice-President of India
• Deputy Chairman: Elected by members of Rajya Sabha

Powers of Rajya Sabha

1. Legislative Powers

• Can introduce and pass ordinary bills
• Equal powers with Lok Sabha (except Money Bills)

2. Financial Powers

• Money Bills can only be introduced in Lok Sabha
• Rajya Sabha can:
  • Recommend changes within 14 days
  • Cannot reject/amend effectively

3. Judicial Powers

• Participates in:
  • Impeachment of President
  • Removal of judges of Supreme Court & High Courts

4. Constitutional Powers

• Equal role in Constitutional Amendments

Special Powers of Rajya Sabha:

Under Article 249

• Can empower Parliament to legislate on State List subjects
• Requires 2/3rd majority

Under Article 312

• Can create All India Services (like IAS, IPS)

Comparison: Rajya Sabha vs Lok Sabha

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