Lok Sabha vs Rajya Sabha: the key differences
India's Parliament has two Houses with different roles. Here is how they compare.
| Lok Sabha | Rajya Sabha | |
|---|---|---|
| Also called | House of the People | Council of States |
| How members are chosen | Directly elected by voters in constituencies | Elected by elected MLAs of each State (plus Union Territory members), and 12 nominated by the President |
| Size | 543 constituencies in the 2024 election | Up to 250 members under the Constitution |
| Term | Five years unless dissolved sooner | Permanent House; members serve six years, one-third retire every two years |
| Minimum age | 25 | 30 |
| Presiding officer | The Speaker, elected by members | The Vice-President of India, as Chairman |
| Money Bills | Introduced only here; its decision prevails | Can only make recommendations, within 14 days |
| Confidence in the government | The Council of Ministers is responsible to this House | Cannot remove the government |
| Special powers | Votes on Demands for Grants | Can let Parliament legislate on State subjects (Art. 249) and create All India Services (Art. 312) |
Why have two Houses?
A second chamber gives the States a voice in national law-making and allows Bills to be examined twice. Because the Rajya Sabha is never dissolved, it also provides continuity between general elections.
Quick check
Tap a question to see the answer and why. In the timed challenge you pick from four options.
Which House usually has more members?
Answer: Lok Sabha. The Lok Sabha is the larger House. The Rajya Sabha can have at most 250 members. Source: Constitution of India, Art. 80 and 81
What does 'Rajya' in Rajya Sabha refer to?
Answer: States. Rajya means State; the Rajya Sabha is the Council of States. Source: Parliament of India (sansad.in)
Within how many days must the Rajya Sabha return a Money Bill?
Answer: 14 days. The Rajya Sabha can only make recommendations and must return a Money Bill within 14 days. Source: Constitution of India, Art. 109(2)
Which Schedule allocates Rajya Sabha seats to States and Union Territories?
Answer: Fourth. The Fourth Schedule sets out each State's and UT's Rajya Sabha seats. Source: Constitution of India, Fourth Schedule