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Context:  The Rajya Sabha Chairman nominated four women parliamentarians to the panel of vice-chairpersons, giving women equal representation in the panel, for the first time in the history of the Rajya Sabha. The panel, which was reconstituted before the monsoon session, has a total of eight members.

Details

• The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Indian Parliament, and the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha is responsible for conducting its proceedings. The panel of vice-chairpersons assists the Chairman in running the house efficiently. Until this recent development, the panel of vice-chairpersons had not provided equal representation to women, despite the presence of women parliamentarians in the Rajya Sabha.
• The panel of vice-chairpersons is an important body that assists the Chairman in conducting the proceedings of the House. The members of the panel preside over the House in the absence of the Chairman and the Deputy Chairman. They also perform other duties assigned to them by the Chairman from time to time.

Significance

• With the nomination of four women parliamentarians to the panel of vice-chairpersons, women now have equal representation in the panel for the first time in the history of the Rajya Sabha. This move is significant as it promotes gender equality and recognizes the contributions and capabilities of women in parliamentary affairs.
• The panel now includes members from different political parties, representing a diverse range of perspectives and interests. This diversity can contribute to better decision-making and a broader understanding of various issues during the proceedings.

The nomination of women to the panel of vice-chairpersons is a commendable step that can inspire more women to join politics and contribute to nation-building. It can also set an example for other institutions and sectors to promote gender diversity and inclusion. Women’s empowerment is not only a matter of justice but also a necessity for development and progress.

Panel of vice-chairpersons

About

• The panel of vice-chairpersons is a group of members nominated to assist the Chairman or the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in conducting its business effectively. The panel members are typically experienced parliamentarians from different political parties, ensuring broad representation in the upper house's functioning.

Functions and Role

• Assisting the Chairman: The panel of vice-chairpersons is a group of members nominated to assist the Chairman or the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha in conducting its business effectively. They help in maintaining decorum during the sessions and ensuring that parliamentary proceedings are carried out smoothly.
• Presiding Over Sessions: In the absence of the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha (who is also the Vice President of India), one of the vice-chairpersons, usually the Deputy Chairman, presides over the sessions and exercises the powers and functions of the Chairman.
• Chairing Committees: Vice-chairpersons may also be appointed to chair various parliamentary committees to oversee specific matters related to legislation, administration, or other issues.

Significance

• Ensuring Smooth Functioning: The panel of vice-chairpersons plays a crucial role in ensuring that the Rajya Sabha functions efficiently and effectively during its sessions.
• Maintaining Order: By assisting in the management of debates and discussions, the vice-chairpersons help maintain decorum and order in the upper house.

Challenges

• Political Dynamics: The panel may consist of members from different political parties, which can sometimes lead to challenges in reaching a consensus on various issues.
• Disruptions and Obstructions: In a diverse and multi-party parliamentary system, disagreements and differing opinions can lead to disruptions in the proceedings.

Way Forward

• Promote Constructive Dialogue: Encouraging members to engage in constructive and respectful debates will contribute to better policy discussions and outcomes.
• Strengthen Rules and Procedures: Continuously reviewing and updating the rules and procedures governing the Rajya Sabha can enhance its efficiency and effectiveness.
• Encourage Consensus-Building: Encouraging political parties to find common ground on important issues will contribute to more productive sessions.
• Enhance Regional Representation: Striving for better representation of various states and regions in the panel can foster a sense of inclusivity and diversity.
• Training and Capacity Building: Providing training and capacity-building programs for members can improve their understanding of parliamentary processes and protocols, enabling them to discharge their responsibilities more effectively.

Must Read Articles:

STANDING PANELS: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/standing-panels

Women's Reservation Bill:  https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/womens-reservation

PRACTICE QUESTION Q.  How are the members of the Panel of Vice-Chairpersons selected? A) Elected by the Rajya Sabha members B) Nominated by the President of India C) Nominated by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha D) Elected by the Parliament Answer: C Explanation: Nominated by the Chairman of Rajya Sabha. The members of the Panel of Vice-Chairpersons are selected and nominated by the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha based on their experience and seniority.

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/for-the-first-time-rajya-sabha-chairman-nominates-4-women-to-panel-of-vice-chairpersons-giving-them-equal-representation/article67101902.ece