GS2 – Indian Polity
Context:
On July 13, 2025, President Droupadi Murmu exercised her powers under Articles 80(1)(a) and 80(3) of the Constitution to nominate four eminent individuals to the Rajya Sabha.
Newly Nominated Members (2025):
- Harsh Vardhan Shringla – Former Foreign Secretary
- Ujjwal Nikam – Renowned Public Prosecutor
- Dr. Meenakshi Jain – Historian, Padma Shri awardee
- C. Sadanandan Master – Educationist
Constitutional Provisions:
- Article 80(1)(a): President may nominate 12 members to Rajya Sabha.
- Article 80(3): Nominees must have special knowledge or practical experience in:
- Literature
- Science
- Art
- Social Service
- Nominations are made on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
- The provision is inspired by the Irish Constitution.
Significance of Nominated Members:
- Introduce domain-specific expertise to legislative discussions.
- Ensure non-partisan and civil society voices in Parliament.
- Represent diverse fields often underrepresented in electoral politics.