The maximum number of members in Rajya Sabha?
VerifiedAnswer: 250
Explanation:
The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of India's Parliament. According to Article 80 of the Indian Constitution, the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is fixed at 250 members. This constitutional provision ensures that the upper house maintains an appropriate size for effective governance and representation.
Out of these 250 members, 238 members are elected by the Legislative Assemblies of States and Union Territories using the system of proportional representation through single transferable vote. The remaining 12 members are nominated by the President of India. These nominated members are chosen for their expertise and distinguished service in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
Currently, the actual strength of the Rajya Sabha is 245 members, which includes 233 elected members and 12 nominated members. The difference between the maximum capacity (250) and current strength (245) exists because not all states and union territories have been allocated their full quota of seats, and some adjustments are made based on various administrative and political considerations.
The Rajya Sabha serves as a vital component of India's federal structure, ensuring that states have adequate representation at the national level. Members serve for a term of six years, with one-third of the members retiring every two years, ensuring continuity in the house. This permanent nature of the Rajya Sabha distinguishes it from the Lok Sabha, which can be dissolved.
