The Indian Parliament

Front

Question

What is the composition of the Indian Parliament?

Back

Answer

The Indian Parliament consists of the President and two Houses: the Lower House called the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Upper House called the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

Front

Question

Why did independent India adopt a parliamentary form of government?

Back

Answer

India adopted a parliamentary form of government due to its prolonged freedom struggle involving people from all sections of society and inspired by ideas of freedom and equality. The founders wanted a government sensitive to people's needs, unlike the oppressive British rule.

Front

Question

What are the qualifications required to become a member of the Lok Sabha?

Back

Answer

A Lok Sabha member must be an Indian citizen, at least 25 years old, not hold any office of profit under the government, be on the electoral list, possess a sound mind, and not be insolvent.

Front

Question

How long is the term of office for a Lok Sabha member, and what are the conditions for its dissolution?

Back

Answer

Lok Sabha members are elected for five years. The President can dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of the Prime Minister and can extend the term by one year during an emergency.

Front

Question

What are the legislative powers of the Lok Sabha?

Back

Answer

The Lok Sabha initiates and passes bills which become laws. It can legislate on subjects in the State List under special conditions with a two-thirds majority. Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha, and it controls financial legislation.

Front

Question

Describe the election and composition of the Rajya Sabha.

Back

Answer

The Rajya Sabha can have up to 250 members, with 12 nominated by the President for expertise in literature, science, art, or sports. Members are elected by members of State Legislative Assemblies for six-year terms, with one-third retiring every two years. The Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved.

Front

Question

What is the role of the President in the Indian Parliament?

Back

Answer

The President is the Constitutional head of the Union Legislature, elected for five years by an electoral college. The President has constitutional and ceremonial powers and acts on the advice of the Prime Minister, assisted by the Vice-President.

Front

Question

How can a bill become law despite disagreement between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha?

Back

Answer

If the Rajya Sabha does not pass a bill within six months, a joint session of both houses is convened. If the joint session passes the bill by majority, it becomes law. Money bills must be passed by Rajya Sabha within fourteen days or are deemed passed.

Front

Question

What special power does the Rajya Sabha hold regarding national importance subjects?

Back

Answer

The Rajya Sabha can declare a subject as being of national importance and request Parliament to legislate on it, even if the subject is normally a state matter.