| Rajya Sabha
The origin of Rajya Sabha can be traced back to 1919, when in pursuance
to the Government of India Act, 1919, a second chamber known as
the Council of States was created. This Council of States, comprising
of mostly nominated members was a deformed version of second chamber
without reflecting true federal features. The Council continued
to function till India became independent. The Rajya Sabha, its
Hindi nomenclature was adopted in 23 August, 1954.
The Rajya Sabha is to consist of not more than 250 members - 238
members representing the States and Union Territories, and 12 members
nominated by the President.
Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution.
However, one third of the members retire every second year, and
are replaced by newly elected members. Each member is elected for
a term of six years.
The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of Rajya
Sabha. The House also elects a Deputy Chairman from among its members.
Besides, there is also a panel of "Vice Chairmen" in the
Rajya Sabha. The senior most Minister, who is a member of Rajya
Sabha, is appointed by the Prime Minister as Leader of the House.
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