Parliament Flashcards
What is the structure of the Indian Parliament?
Bicameral legislature consisting of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, with the President as an integral part.
The Lok Sabha is directly elected by the people, while the Rajya Sabha is indirectly elected and represents states/UTs.
What is the maximum strength of the Lok Sabha?
552 members (530 from states, 20 from UTs, 2 nominated by President).
The current strength is usually 543 elected members plus 2 nominated members if needed.
What is the term length for the Lok Sabha?
5 years, but it can be dissolved earlier.
The Lok Sabha can be dissolved by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
What is the maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha?
250 members (238 elected, 12 nominated by President).
The current strength is typically 245 members.
How often do members retire from the Rajya Sabha?
1/3rd of members retire every 2 years.
This ensures that the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body.
What are the three types of parliamentary sessions?
- Budget Session: February–May
- Monsoon Session: July–September
- Winter Session: November–December
The Budget Session is considered the most important.
What does ‘Adjournment Sine Die’ mean?
Adjournment without fixing a date.
It indicates that the session has been suspended indefinitely.
What are the legislative powers of Parliament?
- Exclusive over Union List
- Concurrent jurisdiction over Concurrent List with states
- Residual powers (Article 248)
These powers allow Parliament to legislate on various matters.
What is the Rajya Sabha’s role regarding Money Bills?
Rajya Sabha cannot vote on money bills.
Money Bills can only originate in the Lok Sabha.
What is required for passing a Constitutional Amendment Bill?
A special majority.
Constitutional Amendment Bills cannot be introduced as Money Bills.
What are the individual privileges of members of Parliament?
- Freedom of speech in Parliament (Article 105)
- Exemption from legal proceedings for anything said/voted in Parliament.
These privileges protect members in their legislative functions.
What are the two types of Parliamentary Committees?
- Standing Committees (Permanent)
- Ad hoc Committees (Temporary)
Examples of Standing Committees include the Public Accounts Committee and the Estimates Committee.
What is the purpose of the Zero Hour in Parliament?
To allow members to raise urgent issues informally.
It occurs immediately after the Question Hour.
What is a No-Confidence Motion?
A motion that causes the resignation of the Council of Ministers if passed.
It indicates that the government no longer has the confidence of the majority in the Lok Sabha.
Fill in the blank: The President summons each _______.
session.
This is a constitutional duty of the President.
