Vice-President of India: Complete Theory Notes for UPSC, SSC, WBCS, PSC, Railway and Competitive Exams
Introduction: The Vice-President of India is the second-highest constitutional office in the country. The Vice-President acts as the Ex-Officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and performs the functions of the President in certain situations. Questions related to election, powers, removal, qualifications, and constitutional provisions are frequently asked in UPSC, SSC, WBCS, PSC, Railway, Banking, CTET, CDS, CAPF and other competitive examinations.
Key Facts Box
- Articles: 63–71
- Position: Second Highest Constitutional Office
- Chairman of: Rajya Sabha
- Term: 5 Years
- Election: Indirect
Constitutional Provisions
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| Article 63 | There shall be a Vice-President of India |
| Article 64 | Vice-President as Chairman of Rajya Sabha |
| Article 66 | Election of Vice-President |
| Article 67 | Term of Office |
| Article 71 | Disputes Relating to Election |
Election of the Vice-President
The Vice-President is elected indirectly by an Electoral College.
Electoral College Includes:
- Elected Members of Lok Sabha
- Nominated Members of Lok Sabha
- Elected Members of Rajya Sabha
- Nominated Members of Rajya Sabha
Unlike the Presidential Election, nominated members of Parliament participate in the Vice-Presidential Election.
Qualifications
- Must be a citizen of India.
- Must have completed 35 years of age.
- Must be qualified for election as a member of Rajya Sabha.
- Must not hold any office of profit.
Term, Resignation and Removal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Term | 5 Years |
| Resignation | To President |
| Removal | Resolution of Rajya Sabha agreed by Lok Sabha |
Important: The Vice-President is not impeached. He/She is removed through a special removal procedure under Article 67.
Functions of the Vice-President
1. Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- Presides over Rajya Sabha proceedings.
- Maintains order and discipline.
- Decides procedural matters.
2. Acts as President
- When the office of President becomes vacant.
- When the President is unable to discharge duties.
Vice-President vs President
| Feature | President | Vice-President |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 35 Years | 35 Years |
| Chairman of Rajya Sabha | No | Yes |
| Electoral College | MPs + MLAs | Only MPs |
Exam Focus Box
- Article 63 → Vice-President
- Article 64 → Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- Article 66 → Election
- Article 67 → Removal
- Age Qualification → 35 Years
Quick Revision Notes
Article 63 → Vice-President
Article 64 → Rajya Sabha Chairman
Article 66 → Election
Article 67 → Removal
Term → 5 Years
Article 64 → Rajya Sabha Chairman
Article 66 → Election
Article 67 → Removal
Term → 5 Years
Most Important Points Summary
- The Vice-President is the second-highest constitutional authority.
- He/She is the Ex-Officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha.
- The Vice-President is elected by members of Parliament.
- Nominated MPs participate in the election.
- The Vice-President can act as President when required.
FAQ Section
Q1. Which Article provides for the Vice-President?
Article 63.
Q2. Who is the Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
Vice-President of India.
Q3. What is the term of the Vice-President?
5 Years.
Q4. Does the Vice-President get impeached?
No, he/she is removed under Article 67.
Conclusion
The office of the Vice-President of India is a significant constitutional institution. Understanding election procedures, qualifications, removal process, and Rajya Sabha-related functions is essential for UPSC, SSC, WBCS, PSC, Railway, Banking, CTET and other competitive examinations.