Which of the following is the primary basis for allocating seats in the Rajya Sabha among various States and Union Territories in India?​

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (b) Population of each state or union territory

Explanation:

• The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is the upper house of the Indian Parliament.
• The allocation of seats to various States and Union Territories is based primarily on their population.
• This provision is detailed under Article 80 of the Indian Constitution.
• Larger states like Uttar Pradesh have more representatives, while smaller ones like Sikkim have fewer.
• The representation ensures proportional representation to reflect the size of the population.

Information Booster:

• Article 80(2) of the Constitution specifies that the allocation of seats in Rajya Sabha is done in such a manner that the number of representatives for each state is proportionate to its population.
• As per the current strength, the maximum permissible strength of the Rajya Sabha is 250, out of which 238 are representatives of the States and Union Territories and 12 are nominated by the President.

Additional Knowledge:
Economic contribution of each state (Option a)

• Not a basis for Rajya Sabha seat allocation.
• Economic parameters are used in other planning or central assistance mechanisms, not legislative representation.

Geographical area of each state (Option c)

• Geographic size does not determine Rajya Sabha representation.
• Some large states (area-wise) may have smaller populations.

Literacy rate of the population (Option d)

• Literacy or education levels have no role in determining legislative seats.
• Representation is strictly population-based in the upper house.