Overview
President Droupadi Murmu has nominated long-term parliamentarian Harivansh Narayan Singh to the Rajya Sabha so that he can continue to serve in the Upper House, after his elected term expires on April 9, 2026. The nomination is made to the nominated category that is vacated by the retirement of former Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi.
Nomination Constitutional Foundation.
The nomination is made under Article 80 of the Constitution of India that grants the President the power to nominate persons who have made significant contributions in the country in various areas including literature, science, art, and social service. The clause permits the Rajya Sabha to have the skills of the not just electoral politics.
Stability in the Parliamentary Leadership.
Harivansh, 69, is a member of the Rajya Sabha representing the state of Bihar and has served two terms in the house besides holding the post of Deputy Chairman. He is known to be calm and collected in his actions and has been instrumental in bringing sanity to debates. His nomination guarantees stability in leadership and procedural stability in the Upper House.
Vacancy On Retirement of Gogoi.
The seat became vacant after the end of the term of Ranjan Gogoi who was nominated to the Rajya Sabha after his tenure as Chief Justice of India. His retirement left one of the limited places available to nominated members and an experienced parliamentary figure could be included.
Experience Beyond Politics
Harivansh had an illustrious career in journalism before he got into politics. This experience has helped him to be informed and cautious in parliamentary proceedings. His nomination indicates the importance of experience and institutional knowledge in enhancing the operation of the legislature.
Exam-Focused Key Points
- Article 80 deals with the composition of the Rajya Sabha.
- The President appoints 12 members to the Rajya Sabha.
- Members are nominated based on skills in particular areas.
- Among the members of the Rajya Sabha, a deputy chairman is elected.
- Harivansh was earlier the Deputy Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
Practice Questions (with Answers)
Q1. By what Article of the Constitution are the members of Rajya Sabha nominated?
Response: Article 80 of the Indian Constitution.
Q2. What is the number of nominations that the President can make into the Rajya Sabha?
Answer: 12 members.
Q3. Who is chosen to be a Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?
Answer: The Deputy Chairman is elected by the members of Rajya Sabha.
Q4. What are the areas where nomination to the Rajya Sabha is looked into?
Response: Literature, science, art and social service.
Q5. Who left the nominated seat, prior to the appointment of Harivansh?
Response:
Month: Current Affairs - April 10, 2026
Category: Parliament | Constitutional Provisions