How many members can the President of India nominate to the Rajya Sabha?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2: 12
Explanation:
According to Article 80 of the Indian Constitution, the President of India can nominate a total of 12 members to the Rajya Sabha.
- Fields: These 12 members are selected from among individuals possessing special knowledge or practical experience in the following four fields:
- Literature
- Science
- Art
- Social Service
Objective: The primary objective is to provide distinguished individuals with the opportunity to share their expertise and experience in the Upper House (Rajya Sabha) without having to contest an election.
Status of the Lok Sabha (Update): Previously, the President used to nominate 2 Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha; however, this provision was abolished by the 104th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2019.
Composition of the Rajya Sabha (Quick Revision):
- Total Maximum Strength: 250 (Currently 245).
- Tenure: The Rajya Sabha is a permanent House; its members serve a tenure of 6 years.
- Ex-officio Chairman: The Vice President of India serves as the *ex-officio* Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
- Minimum Age: The minimum age required to become a member of the Rajya Sabha is 30 years.
Important Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: How many members of the Rajya Sabha retire every two years?
Answer: One-third (1/3) of the members.
Question: Can nominated members vote in the Presidential election?
Answer: No, nominated members cannot vote in the Presidential election (however, they can vote in the Vice-Presidential election).
Question: In which Schedule of the Constitution is the allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha specified?
Answer: The Fourth Schedule.