Which of the following sportspersons has been a nominated Rajya Sabha member since 2022?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Correct Answer
PT Usha
Explanation
Legendary Indian track and field athlete PT Usha was nominated to the Rajya Sabha (the Upper House of the Indian Parliament) by the President of India in July 2022. She was chosen along with three other distinguished personalities from South India: music maestro Ilaiyaraaja, acclaimed screenwriter V. Vijayendra Prasad, and philanthropist Veerendra Heggade.
In December 2022, she achieved another historic milestone by becoming the first nominated Member of Parliament to be appointed to the panel of Vice-Chairpersons of the Rajya Sabha, allowing her to chair proceedings in the absence of the Chairman and Deputy Chairman.
Key Points
Popularly known as the 'Payyoli Express,' PT Usha is celebrated as one of India's greatest athletes, famously missing out on an Olympic bronze medal in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics 400m hurdles by just 1/100th of a second. In December 2022, she was also elected as the first woman President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). Under Article 80 of the Constitution of India, the President can nominate up to 12 members to the Rajya Sabha who possess exceptional knowledge or experience in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
Regarding the other options, Mary Kom was a nominated member from 2016 until her term concluded in 2012–2022. Sachin Tendulkar served his nominated term between 2012 and 2018. Abhinav Bindra has never been a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which constitutional article grants the President of India the executive authority to nominate 12 distinguished members to the Rajya Sabha?
Answer: Article 80.
Question: What is the popular athletic nickname given to PT Usha in recognition of her incredible speed and legacy in track events?
Answer: Payyoli Express.