Union Parliament of India Overview

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.