Constitutional text

(1) The Council of States shall consist of — (a) twelve members to be nominated by the President in accordance with the provisions of clause (3); and (b) not more than two hundred and thirty-eight representatives of the States and of the Union territories. (3) The members to be nominated by the President under sub-clause (a) of clause (1) shall consist of persons having special knowledge or practical experience in respect of such matters as the following, namely: Literature, science, art and social service.

Source: Constitution of India, as published by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

History and context

The Rajya Sabha was conceived as a revising chamber that would represent state interests at the Centre, on the model of upper houses in federal systems. The 12 presidential nominees were meant to bring eminent non-politicians into Parliament. In practice, nomination has sometimes been used to bring in party loyalists. The Rajya Sabha's blocking power over legislation has been a source of repeated tension, most visibly when the ruling party lacks a majority in the upper house.

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Last reviewed: 3 July 2026