Parliamentary System — Study Notes

**UPSSSC PET | Indian Constitution & Public Administration**

Overview

India adopted the parliamentary system of government from the British Westminster model. This topic is a staple in UPSSSC PET, appearing in 3–5 questions covering Lok Sabha composition, Rajya Sabha powers, parliamentary sessions, types of motions, committee structures, and the anti-defection law. Understanding the constitutional provisions (Articles 79–122) and the functioning of Parliament is essential because questions often test differences between the two Houses, money bill procedures, and practical aspects like quorum, adjournment, and no-confidence motions.

Students must master the composition and tenure of both Houses, the role of presiding officers, legislative procedures, and the watchdog function of parliamentary committees. Anti-defection law (10th Schedule) is consistently tested. This chapter bridges constitutional theory with current affairs—questions may ask about recent bills, session types, or landmark committee reports. A clear grasp of procedural differences (who can introduce money bills, who has final say) is crucial for accuracy in the exam.

Key Concepts

• **Bicameral Legislature**: Indian Parliament consists of the President and two Houses—Lok Sabha (lower house) and Rajya Sabha (upper house)—as per Article 79. Both Houses participate in law-making, but Lok Sabha is more powerful in financial matters.

• **Lok Sabha Primacy**: Lok Sabha enjoys supremacy in money bills (Rajya Sabha can only recommend), confidence motions (only Lok Sabha can remove the government), and emergency approvals. It represents the people directly through universal adult franchise.

• **Rajya Sabha as Federal Chamber**: Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories. It has special powers to create All-India Services (Article 312) and to declare a subject in State List of national importance (Article 249). It provides continuity as it is not subject to dissolution.

• **Parliamentary Sessions**: Parliament meets in three sessions annually—Budget (February–May), Monsoon (July–September), and Winter (November–December). A session is summoned by the President on Cabinet advice; gap between sessions cannot exceed six months.

• **Motions and Legislative Devices**: Motions like no-confidence (only Lok Sabha), adjournment, censure, and cut motions allow members to discuss government policies and hold the executive accountable. Money bills and ordinary bills follow distinct procedures.

• **Parliamentary Committees**: Committees conduct detailed scrutiny of bills and government functioning. Standing committees (permanent) include subject-specific departmental committees and financial committees. Ad-hoc committees are formed for specific tasks and dissolve after completing their mandate.