Part V - Parliament • Article

Article 80 Simplified: Composition of the Council of States

Article 80 defines the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). It can have a maximum of 250 members. 12 of these are 'Nominated Members'—experts in Art, Science, Literature, or Social Service chosen by the President. The rest are elected by the MLAs of various states. It is a 'Permanent House' that never fully dissolves.

Official Text

(1) [ *** The Council of States] shall consist of— (a) twelve members to be nominated by the President in accordance with the provisions of clause (3); and (b) not more than two hundred and thirty-eight representatives of the States [and of the Union territories]. (2) The allocation of seats in the Council of States to be filled by representatives of the States [and of the Union territories] shall be in accordance with the provisions in that behalf contained in the Fourth Schedule. (3) The members to be nominated by the President under sub-clause (a) of clause (1) shall consist of persons having special knowledge or practical experience in respect of such matters as the following, namely:— Literature, science, art and social service. (4) The representatives of each State *** in the Council of States shall be elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assembly of the State in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote. (5) The representatives of the [Union territories] in the Council of States shall be chosen in such manner as Parliament may by law prescribe.

Simple Meaning

Explain Like Ten

Article 80 is the rule about our Rajya Sabha (the Upper House). It says it can have a maximum of 250 members. 12 of them are chosen by the President because they are excellent in science, arts, or sports.

Student Mode

Specifies the composition of the Rajya Sabha, limiting the total members to 250, out of which 12 are nominated by the President for their contributions in literature, science, art, and social service, and 238 represent the States and UTs.

Example

Famous personalities like Sachin Tendulkar or Mary Kom have been members of Rajya Sabha as nominated members under the 'Special Knowledge' rule of Article 80.

Key Takeaway

Rajya Sabha is the 'House of Elders' representing states and expertise.

FAQs

What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?

The maximum strength is 250 members, including 238 representatives of States/UTs and 12 nominated by the President.

On what basis are members nominated to the Rajya Sabha?

For their special knowledge or practical experience in literature, science, art, and social service.