What are the functions of the Indian Parliament, and how is it structured?

015 Oct 2024

Nikhil Kumar2 followers

The Indian Parliament plays a crucial role in the functioning of the country"s democracy. It is responsible for making laws, debating national issues, approving budgets, and ensuring that the executive remains accountable. The Parliament is bicameral, consisting of two Houses: the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Both Houses work together to pass laws, control government spending, and ensure the government acts in the nation"s best interest.

Major Functions of the Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament has three primary functions: legislation, representation, and scrutiny. Each function is essential to maintaining a democratic system of government where the rights of citizens are protected, and the government is held accountable.

Sub-major Topics

Legislative Function: The primary function of Parliament is to make laws for the country. This includes passing bills on various issues, including national security, economic policy, social welfare, and environmental protection.
Representation Function: Parliament represents the will of the people. Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected to represent their constituencies and bring local and national concerns to the legislative process.
Scrutiny of Executive: Parliament holds the executive accountable by questioning ministers, debating policies, and approving or rejecting government decisions and spending.
Constitutional Amendments: Parliament also has the power to amend the Constitution of India to meet changing needs and address emerging issues.

Structure of the Indian Parliament

The Indian Parliament is bicameral, consisting of two Houses: the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Both Houses have distinct roles, powers, and functions. Together, they ensure that the legislative process is thorough and inclusive, with adequate representation of the people and the states.

Sub-major Topics

Lok Sabha: The Lok Sabha, or House of the People, is the lower house of Parliament. Members are directly elected by the people of India. It has the power to pass money bills and discuss issues of national importance.
Rajya Sabha: The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of Parliament. It represents the states and union territories. Members are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of the states and union territories.
Joint Sessions: In case of a disagreement between the two Houses on a particular bill, a joint session can be convened to resolve the issue.
Committees: Both Houses have several committees that focus on specific areas like finance, defense, and public accounts. These committees scrutinize the executive"s actions and suggest necessary changes.

Key Questions and Answers

What are the main functions of the Indian Parliament?
Answer: The main functions of the Indian Parliament include legislation, representation, and scrutiny of the executive.
How is the Indian Parliament structured?
Answer: The Indian Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
What is the role of the Lok Sabha?
Answer: The Lok Sabha is responsible for passing money bills and debating national issues. It is directly elected by the people.
What is the function of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer: The Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories of India. Its members are elected by the elected members of the Legislative Assemblies of states and union territories.

In conclusion, the Indian Parliament is the cornerstone of the democratic system in India. Its primary functions of lawmaking, representation, and holding the executive accountable are critical for the functioning of the country. The structure of the Parliament, with its bicameral system, ensures that the legislative process is thorough and that both the people and states are represented.