The Rajya Sabha, or Council of States, is the upper house of India's Parliament, representing states and union territories. It plays a key role in lawmaking, checks hasty legislation, and protects regional interests.

Key Functions:

1. Legislative Functions:

   • Lawmaking: Works alongside the Lok Sabha, requiring approval from both houses.

   • Review & Amendment: Proposes amendments to finance bills, though Lok Sabha has more power in financial matters.

   • Legislation on State Matters: Can allow Parliament to legislate on state matters through a two-thirds majority (Article 249).

2. Federal Functions:

   • State Representation: Provides a platform for states to voice concerns on national issues.

   • Creation of All-India Services: Can create new services like the Indian Administrative Service (Article 312).

   • Extension of Presidential Rule: Can extend emergency proclamations when the Lok Sabha is dissolved.

3. Other Functions:

   • Constitutional Amendments: Participates in amending the Constitution with a special majority.

   • Impeachment of President: Can initiate impeachment proceedings with a two-thirds majority.

   • Control over Executive: Questions and scrutinizes government actions.

   • Electoral Functions: Participates in electing the President and Vice-President.

Key Features:

• Permanent Body: Not subject to dissolution, unlike the Lok Sabha.

• Indirect Elections: Members are elected by state assemblies and union territories.

• Nominated Members: The President can nominate 12 members from specialized fields.