SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 95

The correct answer is Option 3: Question Hour.
Explanation:

• The first hour of the proceedings of both Houses of the Indian Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) is always dedicated to the Question Hour.
• Timing: It typically takes place from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
• Objective: During this time, Members of Parliament (MPs) ask ministers questions regarding the government's actions, policies, and administration. It serves as a powerful mechanism for ensuring government accountability.

Types of Questions: Three types of questions are asked during this period:
Starred Questions: These are answered orally, and supplementary questions may be asked in response.
Unstarred Questions: These are answered in writing.
Short Notice Questions: These relate to matters of urgent public importance.
Comparison with Zero Hour (Option 4):

• Confusion between the Question Hour and the Zero Hour often arises in competitive examinations; therefore, it is essential to understand this distinction clearly:
• Timing: The period immediately following the Question Hour (starting from 12:00 PM) is known as the Zero Hour.
• Indian Innovation: This procedure is not explicitly mentioned in the Rules of Procedure; rather, it is an 'Indian innovation' that has evolved within Indian parliamentary practice since 1962.
• Function: During this time, members can raise important issues without giving any prior notice.

Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: In which year did the Zero Hour originate in the Indian Parliament?
Answer: In 1962.
Question: Does the Rajya Sabha also have a Question Hour?
Answer: Yes; however, in 2014, the timing of the Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha was shifted to 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM (consequently, the Zero Hour now takes place there at 11:00 AM).
Question: Who presides over the sittings of the Lok Sabha?
Answer: The Speaker of the Lok Sabha.