Governance in India Test - 1

As per Article 171 of the Indian Constitution the total number of Members in the Legislative council of a State shall not exceed one-third of the total number of Members in the Legislative Assembly.

Rajya Sabha meets in continuous sessions, and unlike Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament, is not subject to dissolution. However, Rajya Sabha, like Lok Sabha, can be prorogued by the President.

Under Article 80 of the Constitution, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) is composed of not more than 250 members, of whom 12 are nominated by the President of India from among persons who have special knowledge or practical experience in respect of such matters as literature, science, art and social service.

The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He is elected by the members of an electoral college consisting of members of both Houses of Parliament. Rajya Sabha also elects one of its members to be the Deputy Chairman.

Indian Parliament is constituted of two Houses - Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. The term of Lok Sabha is 5 years until and unless dissolved earlier. Rajya Sabha is a permanent House and is not subject to dissolution. However, one-third members of Rajya Sabha retire after every second year. A member who is elected for a full term serves for a period of six years.

The Speaker is elected by Lok Sabha from among themselves and safeguards the rights and privileges of its members. A Speaker of Lok Sabha doesn't vote at first instance and only cast a casting vote, i.e. in case when the House is equally divided on any question, then the Speaker has the right and is entitled to vote.