What is the Difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha? Detailed Comparison

The Difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha lies in their roles, composition, and powers within the Indian parliamentary system. The Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, is directly elected by the citizens of India and serves as the lower house of Parliament. It has a maximum strength of 552 members, including representatives of the people and a few nominated members. The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house and has a maximum strength of 250 members, who are elected by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies and by the members of the Electoral College for Union Territories, with some members nominated by the President for their expertise in specific fields. 

The difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS exam. It covers a significant part of the Polity subject in the Mains General Studies Paper-II syllabus and General Studies Paper-1 of the UPSC Prelims Syllabus.

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The Lok Sabha is responsible for making and passing laws and plays a significant role in financial matters as all money bills can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha reviews, suggests amendments, and provides a check on the legislation passed by the Lok Sabha. Understanding the Difference between Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha is essential to grasping the nuances of the Indian legislative process.

Know more about the Comparison of Powers and Position of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha!

Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, is the lower house of the Indian Parliament. It is directly elected by the citizens of India through general elections held every five years. The maximum strength of Lok Sabha is 550 members, of which 530 are representatives of the states and 20 represent the Union Territories. 

The primary function of Lok Sabha is to pass laws and make decisions on national policies, particularly focusing on issues such as taxation and financial matters. Lok Sabha holds significant power in the legislative process, as a money bill can only be introduced in this house.

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Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Unlike Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha is not subject to dissolution and is a permanent body that represents the states and Union Territories of India. It has a maximum strength of 250 members, with 12 members nominated by the President for their expertise in fields such as literature, science, art, and social service. 

The remaining members are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies and by the members of the Electoral College for Union Territories. Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in reviewing, amending, and delaying legislation passed by Lok Sabha. It serves as a chamber of reflection and debate, ensuring that the interests of the states are represented at the national level.

Know more about the Difference Between Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha!

Legislative power rests with both Houses-Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Thus, they can legislate, discuss national policies, and put the government to account. However, the Lok Sabha exercises financial control to a larger extent while Rajya Sabha acts mainly as a revising chamber.

Legislative Powers

Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha possess equal legislative powers. They can introduce, debate, and pass all possible bills on all subjects except those reserved for the Lok Sabha. The latter includes money bills and bills related to the Council of Ministers. 

Financial Powers

The Lok Sabha has exclusive powers over financial matters. It has the authority to initiate and approve money bills, control public expenditure, and scrutinize the budget. The Rajya Sabha can make recommendations on money bills, but its approval is not mandatory.

Control Over Council of Ministers

The Lok Sabha has the power to control and oversee the functioning of the Council of Ministers. The Prime Minister and other ministers are collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. They can be questioned, criticized, and even removed through a vote of no confidence.

Know more about the Lok Sabha speaker!

Special Powers of Lok Sabha

Lok Sabha holds exclusive authority over money bills, meaning financial legislation can only be introduced and passed in Lok Sabha. Additionally, it has the power to pass a vote of no confidence, which can force the government to resign.

• Only the Lok Sabha can introduce and pass money bills, which deal with taxation, government revenue, and expenditure. The Rajya Sabha can make recommendations on such bills, but its approval is not necessary.
• The Lok Sabha has the power to determine the formation of the government. The political party or coalition that commands the majority in the Lok Sabha forms the government and appoints the Prime Minister.
• The Lok Sabha can pass a vote of no confidence against the Council of Ministers, including the Prime Minister. If such a motion is passed, the government is obliged to resign.

Get more details about the State Legislature here.

Special Powers of Rajya Sabha

Rajya Sabha can authorize the Parliament to legislate on matters in the State List through a resolution passed by a two-thirds majority. It also plays a crucial role in protecting the interests of the states and ensuring federal balance.

• The Rajya Sabha represents the interests of the states and union territories. It ensures a federal balance by providing a platform for states to express their concerns and interests.
• The Rajya Sabha plays a significant role in the process of constitutional amendment. Certain types of amendments require the support of both houses, while some specifically require the approval of the Rajya Sabha.
• The President of India can nominate members with expertise in various fields to the Rajya Sabha. This thereby ensures the representation of specialized knowledge and experience in the legislative process.

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