Who is a Sansad?
A Sansad is a Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha, representing a legislative constituency in the lower house of the Parliament of India. Members of Lok Sabha are chosen through direct elections.
- The maximum strength of Lok Sabha is 550, with the current elected strength being 543.
The term Sansad also refers to a Member of the Rajya Sabha, who represents Indian states in the upper house of Parliament. Rajya Sabha MPs are elected by the electoral college of elected members of the State Assemblies, through a system of proportional representation by single transferable vote.
- The Rajya Sabha can have a maximum of 250 members:
- 238 representing states and union territories
- 12 nominated by the President
Unlike the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and cannot be dissolved. However, one-third of its members retire every two years, and fresh elections or Presidential nominations are held accordingly.
What is a Joint Session of Parliament?
You might wonder — What exactly is a Joint Session of Parliament? How is it different from other sessions, and why is it called?
Let’s find out:
In a Joint Session of Parliament, members of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha come together to resolve disagreements or deadlocks on specific legislative matters, as provided by the Constitution.
- It is called by the President under Article 108 of the Indian Constitution.
- It is presided over by the Speaker of the Lok Sabha.
- The aim is to pass bills that are stuck due to disagreement between the two Houses.
The last Joint Sitting of Parliament was held on March 26, 2002, for the Prevention of Terrorism Bill, 2002.
There have only been three Joint Sessions in Indian history:
- Dowry Prohibition Bill, 1961
- Banking Service Commission (Repeal) Bill, 1978
- Prevention of Terrorism Bill, 2002
A Day in the Life of a Sansad:
Now, for those wondering — What does Sansad actually do during the session? Here’s your inside scoop:
- Dress Up and Be Ready
Dress like you own the floor and truly represent the people.
Traditional Indian attire gives you that “Sansad look”, especially when you have a bill in hand and a will to change the nation. Be confident and bold!
- Prepare a Speech
A good Sansad prepares impactful speeches that not only address critical issues but also echo public sentiment — especially from your constituency. Analyse the issue thoroughly and speak with conviction.
- Prepare and Ask Questions
MPs have the power to:
- Question the government (as opposition), or
- Answer questions (as part of the ruling government)
Be fearless in raising tough, relevant questions — your voice represents the people.
(Pro tip: A dramatic walkout can turn the tide if the opposition is ignored)
- Eat and Meet
Welcome to the Lunch Table Conference — where political differences dissolve with the aroma of delicious food.
It’s the perfect time to:
- Build coalitions
- Share ideas
- And prepare strategies for the rest of the day
(And gossip a little)
- Back to the Chits
The first day doesn’t end when you leave the room. You’ll still have a pile of chits to respond to!
So, go home and reply like a warrior. Write thoughtful, well-researched answers. Show your dedication!
TIP: Prepare some questions in advance for Day 2 — it saves time and shows you’re always one step ahead.
It’s not all about the speeches and diplomacy but also about the moments we live in between them.
- The butterflies in stomach a day before the conference
- The feeling of getting your own delegate kits(with a little surprise)
- The bittersweet feeling at the end of day 1
- The anxiety when you see your room for the first time
- The energy coming back on day 2
- New friends formed while trying to form coalitions
- Fun in socials
- Last but not the least, the feeling of leaving the venue with an award in your hand (hopefully)
These moments make the event successful for us and memorable for you. I too experienced this as a first time delegate and will forever cherish them.
