The Parliament of India, the supreme legislative body, is a bicameral institution consisting of the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). Here is a brief overview of the two houses:

Lok Sabha:

• Composition: The Lok Sabha is composed of 545 members, with 543 directly elected by the Indian public and 2 nominated by the President to represent the Anglo-Indian community.
• Functions: It is known as the “House of the People” and plays a crucial role in lawmaking, budget approval, and oversight of the government.
• Legislative Process: Bills go through three readings in the Lok Sabha before being presented to the President for approval. The Lok Sabha has the final say on money bills.
• Term: The Lok Sabha’s term is five years unless dissolved earlier. It represents the people’s will through direct elections based on adult suffrage.

Rajya Sabha:

• Composition: The Rajya Sabha consists of 250 members, with 238 representing states and union territories and 12 nominated by the President for their expertise in various fields.
• Functions: It serves as the “Council of States” and complements the Lok Sabha by representing states’ interests and providing a forum for experts to contribute to legislation.
• Elections: Members representing states are elected by state legislative assemblies, while those representing union territories are chosen as per laws prescribed by Parliament.
• Term: One-third of Rajya Sabha members retire every two years, ensuring continuity in representation.

Key Points:

• Powers: The Parliament holds cardinal functions like legislation, overseeing administration, passing budgets, addressing public grievances, and discussing national policies.
• Impeachment: Parliament has powers to impeach the President and remove judges following specified procedures.
• Constitutional Amendments: Parliament can initiate amendments to the Constitution, subject to specific procedures.

The Indian Parliament stands as a symbol of democracy, where elected representatives work together to shape laws and policies that reflect the aspirations and needs of the nation’s diverse population.