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Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of the Union Parliament based on the text?
What is the primary function of the Union Parliament based on the text?
Which event marks the beginning of the parliamentary year according to the text?
Which event marks the beginning of the parliamentary year according to the text?
What is the role of parliamentary committees mentioned in the text?
What is the role of parliamentary committees mentioned in the text?
How many standing committees does the Lok Sabha have based on the information provided?
How many standing committees does the Lok Sabha have based on the information provided?
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Who can introduce bills in the Union Parliament?
Who can introduce bills in the Union Parliament?
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How long do Rajya Sabha members serve for?
How long do Rajya Sabha members serve for?
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What is the maximum number of members in the Rajya Sabha?
What is the maximum number of members in the Rajya Sabha?
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When are Lok Sabha elections held?
When are Lok Sabha elections held?
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What powers does the President have regarding ordinances sent to parliament?
What powers does the President have regarding ordinances sent to parliament?
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How are members of the Rajya Sabha elected?
How are members of the Rajya Sabha elected?
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Which event led to the United States declaring war on Germany during World War I?
Which event led to the United States declaring war on Germany during World War I?
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Which statement about the Treaty of Versailles is accurate?
Which statement about the Treaty of Versailles is accurate?
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Who were part of the Triple Alliance during World War I?
Who were part of the Triple Alliance during World War I?
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What event in Sarajevo triggered the First World War?
What event in Sarajevo triggered the First World War?
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Which countries were part of the Central Powers during World War I?
Which countries were part of the Central Powers during World War I?
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'Allied Powers' during World War I did NOT include which country?
'Allied Powers' during World War I did NOT include which country?
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'Triple Entente' included which country?
'Triple Entente' included which country?
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Which country left the 'Triple Alliance'?
Which country left the 'Triple Alliance'?
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Which countries' government policies at the end of the 19th century were NOT focused on encouraging nationalism in Asia?
Which countries' government policies at the end of the 19th century were NOT focused on encouraging nationalism in Asia?
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Which was NOT a feature of a Nation-State during the First World War period?
Which was NOT a feature of a Nation-State during the First World War period?
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Which of the following accurately depicts the chronological order of events related to World War I?
Which of the following accurately depicts the chronological order of events related to World War I?
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Study Notes
The Union Parliament: A Nest of Power, Progress, and Productivity
The Union Parliament, comprising the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) and the Lok Sabha (House of the People), is the legislative branch of the Indian government that embodies the country's democratic foundation. From its birth in 1950, the Union Parliament has evolved into a hub of lawmaking, deliberation, and accountability, playing a pivotal role in the nation's growth and governance.
Sessions
The parliamentary year commences with the President's address to the joint session of both houses, which is followed by the enactment of the Union Budget. The parliamentary session is divided into two halves—the Budget Session and the Monsoon Session, with additional sessions like Winter and Spring Sessions that may be called upon by the President.
Functions
The Union Parliament is responsible for making laws, scrutinizing the executive, and representing the people's voice. Members debate and vote on bills, resolutions, and motions, and they hold the government accountable through questions, debates, and committee work. The President of India signs bills passed by both houses into law, enacting them as statutes.
Committees
Parliamentary committees, both standing and ad hoc, allow members from different parties to collaborate on specific issues, drafting bills, examining government policy, and scrutinizing laws. The Rajya Sabha has 24 standing committees, while the Lok Sabha has 20. Membership of these committees is determined by a party's representation in the house, and they serve for one year, with the possibility of extension.
Legislation
The Union Parliament is empowered to enact legislation on subjects listed in the Union List and concurrent List, which cover matters of national importance and common interests, respectively. Bills may be introduced by any member, the government, or a committee. Bills are then passed through various stages, including first reading, second reading, committee stage, and third reading, before being sent to the President for assent.
Structure
The Rajya Sabha, representing the states and union territories, has a maximum of 245 members, 12 members of whom are nominated by the President for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social services. Rajya Sabha members serve for a term of six years, with one-third of the seats being renewed every two years through indirect election by the elected members of the state and territorial legislative assemblies.
Unlike the Rajya Sabha, the Lok Sabha represents the country's population. Its 545 members include 543 elected members and two nominated members from the Anglo-Indian community. Lok Sabha members serve for a maximum term of five years, with elections held at least once every five years.
Although the Union Parliament is a powerful institution, its role is not without limitations. The President can exercise their powers to summon, prorogue, and dissolve the houses. Moreover, the President has the right to send ordinances to parliament, which have the force of law for six weeks or until the end of the parliamentary session, whichever is earlier.
In conclusion, the Union Parliament is a multifaceted institution that plays a pivotal role in India's governance and democratic process. Its sessions, functions, committees, and legislative powers ensure the growth of the country, while respecting the rights and voices of its citizens.
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Description
Explore the structure, functions, sessions, and legislative powers of the Union Parliament of India, comprising the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. Learn about the role of parliamentary committees, the enactment of legislation, and the representation of states and the population in this key legislative body.
