Rajya Sabha

The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the upper House of parliament of India. Membership is limited to 250 members, 12 of which are chosen by the president for their expertise in specific fields such as literature, science, or social services. The remainder of the body is elected by the state and territorial legislatures.

Terms of office are for six years with one third of the members facing re-election every two years.

The Rajya Sabha meets in continuous session and is not subject to dissolutions as is the other House of parliament, the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha holds equal legislative power with the Lok Sabha except in the area of Finances where the Lok Sabha is given overriding powers. In the case of conflicting legislation a joint sitting of the two Houses is held.

See also: Politics of India

External link

• Rajya Sabha FAQ page hosted by the Indian government