The upper house of the Indian Parliament, known as the Rajya Sabha or Council of States, is crucial in forming the nation's legislative framework. The Rajya Sabha is made up of members chosen by the legislative assemblies of states and union territories, in contrast to the Lok Sabha, which is chosen directly by the electorate. Members serve staggered six-year terms, with a maximum total strength of 250. To maintain continuity, a third of the body retires every two years.
The ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha is the vice president of India. By allowing states to participate in the main legislative process, the House reflects the federal nature of the country. It has the authority to examine, revise, and postpone laws that the Lok Sabha has passed.
The Rajya Sabha has discussed and approved important proposals in recent years pertaining to women's reservation, labor regulations, education reforms, and data protection.
Even though it is unable to propose money legislation, the Rajya Sabha is an important part of the legislative process, particularly when regional issues require national attention. Its sessions gain intellectual depth with the participation of seasoned politicians, legal professionals, and nominated members from a variety of areas.
To boost public engagement and transparency, the House has started live broadcasting proceedings. For information on Rajya Sabha discussions, member biographies, bill summaries, election outcomes, and significant sessions, bookmark this page.
Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP Krishna Prasad Tenneti, who was presiding over the House during a period of intense disruption, recounts opposition MPs' behaviour.
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This Special Report hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai examines the significant political shift in Maharashtra following the death of Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, has been sworn in as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move occurring three days after the tragedy. While the NCP leadership attributes this appointment to public sentiment, family patriarch Sharad Pawar and various critics have raised questions regarding transparency and the timing of the elevation. The programme features analysis from Sahil Joshi and Rohit Sandhavarkar on whether Sunetra Pawar can maintain independent control or if she will be influenced by senior leaders like Praful Patel. Concurrently, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assumed the finance and planning portfolios, consolidating BJP influence within the Mahayuti coalition. The discussion explores the historical context of political legacies, the internal dynamics of the Pawar family, and the administrative challenges facing the new Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape.
In a historic move for Maharashtra politics, Sunetra Pawar has taken oath as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The elevation follows the tragic demise of NCP leader Ajit Pawar in a recent plane crash. During the transition, party leaders and close aides rallied behind her, with the speaker noting, 'Sunetra Pawar, widow of the late Ajit Pawar, has taken oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, making history as the first woman to hold the post.' The report highlights her background as the daughter of Padam Singh Patil and her previous role as a Rajya Sabha MP. Despite her 2024 electoral loss in Baramati to Supriya Sule, she now steps into a central leadership role within the Mahayuti Coalition. The programme examines whether she can maintain control over the party and the Pawar family legacy during this period of intense political churn and emotional transition for the state of Maharashtra.
In this special report, the focus is on the sudden political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move congratulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister stated, 'I'm confident she will work tirelessly for the welfare of the people of the state and fulfill the vision of late Ajit Dada Pawar.' The bulletin explores the internal dynamics of the NCP Ajit Pawar faction and the potential for a merger with the Sharad Pawar group. While Sunetra Pawar takes over portfolios like Excise and Minority Affairs, the crucial Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ahead of the state budget. The programme further analyzes the impact of this leadership change on upcoming local body polls and the strategic power balance within the Mahayuti alliance involving the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
This report covers the political developments in Maharashtra following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar in a tragic airplane crash. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, filling the vacancy left by her late husband. During the proceedings, NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule reportedly refused to answer questions from the press regarding the oath ceremony. NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar, when questioned about the appointment, stated, 'I do not know this is a decision that has been taken by the party internally,' suggesting a lack of consensus within the family and the broader political factions. The transition occurs amidst speculation regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions, a move previously associated with Ajit Pawar's wishes. Sunetra Pawar now joins the state cabinet alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while senior members of the Pawar family remained absent from the official ceremony.
In a significant political development, Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The appointment follows the tragic demise of her husband, Ajit Pawar, in a road accident on 28th January. During the solemn ceremony at Lok Bhawan, supporters were heard chanting 'Ajit Dada Amar Rahe' as the new Deputy CM signed the official documents. The broadcast highlights the immense responsibility now resting on Sunetra Pawar to keep the NCP flock together and manage key portfolios, including the upcoming budget session. While speculation regarding a merger with the Sharad Pawar-led faction continues to swirl, party insiders suggest the immediate priority remains government stability. The program notes that Sunetra Pawar will likely vacate her Rajya Sabha seat to focus on her new role in the state cabinet. Senior leaders and family members, including her sons Parth and Jay, were present as the party unanimously backed her leadership to ensure the continuity of Ajit Pawar's political legacy.
This Special Report covers a recent oath-taking ceremony involving the administration of Maharashtra. During the proceedings, an unidentified speaker pledged to 'maintain the integrity and unity of India' and expressed deep respect and devotion to the Indian Constitution. The speaker emphasized a commitment to performing duties with dedication, an open mind, and impartiality toward all citizens in accordance with the law. The transcript details the formal process of the 'shapath vidhi samaram,' where the individual vowed to fulfill responsibilities without bias or prejudice. The event highlights the procedural traditions of the state's executive branch, focusing on the solemnity of the constitutional oath and the speaker's expressed gratitude toward the leadership of Maharashtra while promising to uphold the legal framework of the nation.
In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker takes a formal oath of office, claiming the position of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. During the declaration, the speaker expresses deep respect and devotion to the Indian Constitution, pledging to maintain the integrity and unity of the nation. The speaker states, 'As the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, I will do my work with dedication and with a clear mind.' The transcript captures the speaker promising to deliver serious and impartial justice to all citizens in accordance with the law and the Constitution. The address concludes with a solemn declaration regarding the seriousness of the Chief Minister's thoughts and responsibilities, followed by a brief expression of gratitude in Hindi. The programme highlights this significant political moment and the speaker's commitment to constitutional values and administrative dedication in the state of Maharashtra.
On this special report, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative party has unanimously chosen Sunetra Pawar to lead the party and succeed her late husband. The speaker notes, 'Sunetra Pawar becomes the first woman to hold that position in the state', referring to the post of Deputy Chief Minister. The ceremony, held at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai, marks a significant shift as she transitions from a Rajya Sabha MP to the Deputy Chief Minister's office. Senior leaders, including Praful Patel, were present as preparations were finalised for the Governor to administer the oath. The report highlights that Sunetra Pawar is expected to retain the key cabinet portfolios previously held by her husband in the current administration, ensuring continuity for the NCP faction amidst the recent tragedy.
This news report details a significant leadership transition within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in Maharashtra. Following the reported demise of the Deputy Chief Minister, Sunetra Pawar has reportedly accepted the proposal to be appointed as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The report states, 'Sunetra Bawar has already accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and her oath ceremony is likely to be held tomorrow at 5 pm.' Consequently, her current Rajya Sabha seat is expected to be vacated, with sources indicating that her eldest son, Parth Pawar, will be nominated to fill the vacancy. An NCP Legislative Party meeting is scheduled for 2 pm to formally elect Sunetra Pawar as the leader. The broadcast features insights from reporter Deepesh Tripathi, who explains that Sunetra Pawar will have six months to be elected to the state legislature after taking the oath, marking Parth Pawar's official entry into parliamentary politics.
This news bulletin reports on significant political developments in Maharashtra involving the Pawar family. Following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar, Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, potentially becoming the first woman to hold the post. Her oath ceremony is scheduled for tomorrow at 5 PM, following an NCP Legislative Party meeting where she will be elected as the leader. Consequently, her son Parth Pawar is set to enter the Rajya Sabha to fill the vacancy created by her transition. The report notes that Parth Pawar was previously considered for the upper house but was sidelined due to his aggressive reputation. 'Sunetra Pawar, remember, has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and her oath ceremony, in fact, is likely to take place tomorrow at 5 PM.' The programme explores the shift in leadership and Parth Pawar's elevation to the Rajya Sabha amidst these state-level changes.
This Special Report, hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai, examines the political transition in Maharashtra following the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in an air crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP, has been appointed as his successor, making her the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for 5 pm on Saturday. Sunetra Pawar will manage the Excise and Sports portfolios, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis temporarily assumes the Finance portfolio. The program analyzes internal National Congress Party (NCP) dynamics, featuring support from leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal. Panelists including Shaina NC, Sanjay Jha, and Jayant Mainkar discuss whether this appointment is a strategic move by the BJP to prevent an NCP faction merger or a recognition of Pawar's grassroots work in Baramati. The report includes archival footage where Sunetra Pawar discusses the NCP split as a battle of ideologies. This coverage provides insights into the Pawar family legacy and Maharashtra's evolving political landscape.
On this news bulletin, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic death of Ajit Pawar in an air crash. Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her oath-taking ceremony scheduled for 5 pm tomorrow. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislature party will meet at 2 pm to formally elect her as the leader. Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha MP and founder of the Environmental Forum of India, will retain the excise and sports portfolios, while Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is expected to take charge of the finance portfolio. The report also discusses the future of the proposed NCP merger, which was reportedly slated for February 2026. 'Sunetra Pawar was spoken to, yesterday she was consulted... and today she has given her acceptance,' noted the correspondent while discussing the leadership vacuum and the potential political realignment within the Mahayuti government.
This news report details the shifting political landscape within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. The party has called for a crucial legislative party meeting where Sunetra Pawar, a Rajya Sabha member and wife of the late leader, is expected to be elected as the leader of the MLAs. A key quote from the broadcast notes, 'Sunetra Pawar is likely to be elected as the leader of NCP legislative party.' Beyond leadership roles, the NCP faction is focused on retaining heavyweight portfolios such as Finance and Excise within the Mahayuti cabinet. Senior leaders including Praful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal have reportedly met with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss the transition. Additionally, the report highlights potential merger talks with the Sharad Pawar-led NCP SP faction, a move allegedly initiated by Ajit Pawar prior to his passing. The situation remains fluid as the party navigates this leadership vacuum in its bastion of Baramati.
On this India Today special report, senior NCP (SP) leader and former minister Eknath Khadse reveals that the merger between the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party had been finalised prior to the latter's sudden demise. Khadse stated, 'The merger of both NCP factions has been finalised,' noting that the move was intended to follow local body elections. The transcript details how both factions had already begun contesting local polls as an alliance against the BJP using the 'clock' symbol. Journalist Sahil Joshi adds that the late Ajit Pawar had hinted at this reunification during a January 2026 interview, suggesting the merger would involve supporting the NDA government at both State and Central levels. The report further notes that Sharad Pawar is set to retire from the Rajya Sabha in April 2026, which was expected to facilitate a smoother transition for the unified party under the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.
On this Special Report, reporter Vidya provides an update on the political crisis in Maharashtra following the sudden demise of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) now faces a leadership vacuum, with sources indicating that Ajit Pawar's wife and Rajya Sabha member, Sunetra Pawar, is being positioned to take over his mantle. Vidya notes, 'They are the ones who are pushing for Sunitha to become the Deputy Chief Minister here in Maharashtra and that she should lead the party here in the state.' While the Sharad Pawar faction is reportedly pushing for a merger, the Ajit Pawar faction is currently focused on internal leadership, with Praful Patel expected to manage union affairs while Sunetra Pawar handles the state. The report highlights the potential for Sunetra Pawar to contest the now-vacant Baramati seat and the upcoming meeting between NCP leaders and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss the proposal for the new Deputy Chief Minister.
This news report discusses the emerging power dynamics within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Senior party leaders, including Praful Patel, Chhagan Bhujbal, and Sunil Tatkare, have reportedly reached a consensus to propose Sunetra Pawar for the vacant Deputy Chief Minister post. The transcript notes that Sunetra Pawar, currently a Rajya Sabha MP, is also expected to contest the by-poll for the Baramati Assembly constituency, a seat held by Ajit Pawar since 1993. 'In all likelihood, it is believed that Sunetra Pawar now will be contesting in the vacant seat of Ajit Pawar,' the report states. While the NCP leadership appears united on her elevation to the cabinet, the final decision rests with the BJP top leadership and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Additionally, the report highlights ongoing discussions regarding the party presidency and the potential impact on previously discussed merger plans between the two NCP factions.
Senior Advocate and Congress Rajya Sabha MP Vivek Tankha discusses the controversy surrounding the seating of Leaders of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge during the Republic Day parade. Speaking to India Today, Tankha stated, "The Constitution feels humiliated if you don't treat your institutions well," emphasizing that constitutional positions deserve dignity regardless of party affiliation. He addressed the Congress party's focus on the Constitution, asserting that while state elections focus on local issues, the narrative of institutional devaluation will resonate in the 2029 general elections. Tankha also reflected on his family's judicial legacy during the Emergency, citing the ADM Jabalpur case to highlight liberal values. He criticized the government's use of the National Security Act against activists like Sonam Wangchuk, arguing it insults Articles 21 and 22. Ultimately, he maintained that the opposition currently acts as the guardian of democracy against a ruling party agenda that he claims challenges the spirit of the Constitution.
During the 77th Republic Day celebrations, the commentator noted the conspicuous absence of key opposition figures, including the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, and Rajya Sabha LOP Mallikarjun Kharge. The broadcast highlighted the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' theme across various tableaux. 'Vande Mataram is the theme of this float of West Bengal and understandably so because it is the tabla which begins with Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay whose composition Vande Mataram in 1875 became the eternal mantra,' the speaker observed. The parade featured 17 states and union territories, including Maharashtra’s cultural display, Madhya Pradesh’s tribute to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, and Odisha’s 'Soil and Silicon' narrative. The Manipur tableau focused on a journey toward prosperity from agricultural fields to international markets, amidst hopes for peace in the state. Cabinet ministers including Piyush Goyal, Dharmendra Pradhan, and JP Nadda were seen in attendance as the Department of School Education and Literacy and Panchayati Raj floats also made their way down the Kartavya Path.
