What is the total number of houses that make up the Indian Parliament?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Two
Explanation
The Indian Parliament is a bicametary legislature, meaning it consists of two distinct houses:
Lok Sabha (House of the People / Lower House)
Rajya Sabha (Council of States / Upper House)
While the Parliament is made up of these two houses, constitutionally under Article 79, the Parliament of India officially comprises the President of India along with both houses. The President acts as the head of the legislature, though they do not sit or participate directly in the debates of either house.
Key Points
The Lok Sabha is called the popular house because its members are directly elected by the citizens of India based on universal adult suffrage. The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to absolute dissolution, with one-third of its members retiring every two years. To become a binding law or Act, any bill must be independently passed by both houses and subsequently receive the official assent of the President.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which article of the Constitution of India defines the structural composition and constitution of the Parliament?
Answer: Article 79.
Question: Which house of the Indian Parliament is officially designated as the permanent house and cannot be dissolved by the President?
Answer: Rajya Sabha.