Structure: Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha

Introduction

1. The Parliament of India is a bicameral legislature consisting of two houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
2. It is the supreme legislative body of the Republic of India.
3. Parliament operates under the framework of the Constitution of India.

1. Lok Sabha

1. The Lok Sabha is the lower house of Parliament.
2. It represents the people of India, with members directly elected by the citizens.
3. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 552, with 530 members representing states, 20 from Union Territories, and 2 nominated by the President from the Anglo-Indian community (nominations were abolished by the 104th Amendment).
4. Members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a term of 5 years.
5. The Lok Sabha is presided over by the Speaker, who is elected by its members.
6. It is the more powerful house, particularly in financial matters, as it controls the Consolidated Fund of India.
7. Money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.

2. Rajya Sabha

1. The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of Parliament.
2. It represents the states and Union Territories of India.
3. The maximum strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250, with 238 members representing states and Union Territories, and 12 members nominated by the President for their expertise in fields like literature, science, art, and social service.
4. Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected by the legislative assemblies of states and Union Territories using proportional representation.
5. The Rajya Sabha is a permanent house and is not subject to dissolution. One-third of its members retire every two years.
6. The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
7. Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha has limited powers in financial matters.

3. Comparative Features

1. The Lok Sabha is a directly elected body, whereas the Rajya Sabha is indirectly elected.
2. The Lok Sabha has greater power in passing money bills and votes of confidence.
3. The Rajya Sabha has the authority to recommend and discuss, but cannot reject, a money bill.
4. In case of a conflict between the two houses, a joint sitting is called, presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.

4. Role and Functions

1. Both houses participate in the legislative process, including the introduction, discussion, and passage of bills.
2. The Lok Sabha exercises control over the executive by means of questions, debates, and motions.
3. The Rajya Sabha provides representation to the states and protects their interests.
4. Both houses play a crucial role in amending the Constitution.
5. The Rajya Sabha can create new All-India Services by passing a resolution with a two-thirds majority.

5. Importance of Bicameralism

1. The bicameral structure ensures checks and balances within the legislative process.
2. It prevents hasty legislation by providing an opportunity for a second review in the Rajya Sabha.
3. Promotes federalism by representing states in the Rajya Sabha.

Conclusion

The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha together form the backbone of India’s parliamentary democracy. While the Lok Sabha ensures representation of the people, the Rajya Sabha upholds the interests of the states, making the legislative process more inclusive and robust.