Anand Classes provides exam-oriented Vice President of India (Article 63) Polity Notes for NDA GAT, covering complete theory, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These notes explain the constitutional provisions, election process, powers, and functions of the Vice President of India in a simplified manner to help aspirants strengthen their NDA preparation. Click the print button to download study material and notes.
✅ Vice President of India (Article 63) – NDA GAT Study Guide
The Vice-President of India holds the second-highest constitutional office in the country as established by Article 63 of the Indian Constitution. This office serves as a crucial component of India’s constitutional framework, ensuring continuity of executive authority and providing leadership to the upper house of Parliament.
The Vice-President performs dual roles: acting as the constitutional successor to the President during vacancy or incapacity, and serving as the Ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. This unique combination makes the Vice-President’s office vital for both executive continuity and legislative functioning in India’s parliamentary democracy.
Understanding the Vice-President’s constitutional position, powers, and functions is essential for UPSC NDA aspirants as it represents a significant portion of the Indian Polity syllabus and frequently appears in competitive examinations.
Constitutional Framework (Article 63)
Article 63 of the Indian Constitution provides for the office of Vice-President of India, establishing this position as an integral part of the executive structure. The office was designed to ensure seamless governance during presidential transitions and to provide experienced leadership to the Rajya Sabha.
The Vice-President’s constitutional significance lies in bridging the executive and legislative branches of government, making this office unique in the world’s constitutional systems. The dual responsibility ensures both governmental continuity and effective parliamentary functioning.
Election Process and Electoral College
Electoral College Composition
The Vice-President is elected by an Electoral College consisting of:
- All elected members of Lok Sabha
- All elected members of Rajya Sabha
- All nominated members of both houses
Key Difference from Presidential Election: Unlike the President’s election, nominated members participate in Vice-Presidential elections, and state legislative assembly members do not participate.
Voting System
The election follows the system of proportional representation by means of single transferable vote through secret ballot. This ensures fair representation and prevents manipulation while maintaining the confidentiality of electoral choices.
Election Guidelines
- Dispute Resolution: Supreme Court has exclusive jurisdiction over Vice-Presidential election disputes
- Returning Officer: Secretary-General of either House of Parliament
- Security Deposit: Nominal amount as prescribed by election rules
- Nomination Requirements: Minimum proposers and seconders from Parliament members
Qualifications for Vice-President
To be eligible for the office of Vice-President, a candidate must satisfy the following constitutional requirements:
Mandatory Qualifications:
- Must be a citizen of India
- Must have completed 35 years of age
- Must be qualified to become a member of Rajya Sabha
- Must not hold any office of profit under the Government of India or any state government
Important Notes:
- The qualification criteria are identical to Presidential qualifications except for the Rajya Sabha membership requirement
- No educational qualifications are specified in the Constitution
- The candidate must not hold any office of profit to maintain independence
Term of Office and Tenure
Duration and Re-election
- Term Duration: 5 years from the date of assumption of office
- Re-election: No constitutional limit on the number of terms
- Continuation: Can continue in office beyond term until successor assumes charge
- Early Termination: Term can end early through resignation, removal, or death
Oath of Office
The Vice-President takes oath before the President of India or a person appointed by the President. The oath includes faithfully discharging duties and preserving, protecting, and defending the Constitution.
Powers and Functions
Executive Functions
Presidential Succession:
- Acts as President during vacancy caused by death, resignation, or removal
- Performs Presidential functions during President’s illness or absence
- Temporary Presidency: Continues until new President is elected (maximum 6 months)
Salary During Presidential Functions:
When acting as President, the Vice-President receives Presidential salary and allowances instead of regular Vice-Presidential emoluments.
Legislative Functions
Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha:
The Vice-President’s most significant ongoing responsibility is serving as the Chairman of Rajya Sabha with the following powers:
- Presiding over Rajya Sabha sessions
- Maintaining order and decorum in the house
- Deciding points of order and procedural matters
- Giving consent for introduction of bills, resolutions, and motions
- Casting vote in case of tie (rare occurrence)
- Interpreting rules and parliamentary procedures
Parliamentary Powers:
- Administrative control over Rajya Sabha secretariat
- Direction of debates and discussions
- Allocation of time for various parliamentary business
- Recognition of members for participation
- Ensuring legislative discipline and proper conduct
Emoluments and Benefits
Salary Structure
- Monthly Salary: ₹1.25 lakh as Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha
- During Presidential Functions: Receives full Presidential salary and allowances
- Additional Benefits: Official residence, medical facilities, security arrangements
- Post-retirement Benefits: Pension and medical facilities as per rules
Official Facilities
- Official Residence: Vice-President Enclave in New Delhi
- Transportation: Official vehicles and air travel facilities
- Security: Z+ category security protection
- Staff Support: Personal and official staff assistance
Removal Process
Constitutional Procedure
The Vice-President can be removed through a unique constitutional process:
- Resolution in Rajya Sabha: Must be passed by absolute majority of total membership
- Lok Sabha Approval: Resolution must be agreed to by Lok Sabha
- No Formal Impeachment: Unlike the President, there’s no formal impeachment process
- 14-day Notice: Advance notice required before moving resolution
Grounds for Removal
Unlike the President, no specific grounds are mentioned in the Constitution for Vice-Presidential removal. This provides flexibility but also requires careful consideration to prevent misuse.
Resignation Process
The Vice-President can resign by submitting resignation to the President of India. This resignation takes effect immediately upon acceptance.
Vice-Presidents of India – Complete List
| Name | Tenure | Notable Achievements | Later Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan | 1952-1962 | Philosopher, Educator | Became President |
| Dr. Zakir Hussain | 1962-1967 | Educationist, Scholar | Became President |
| V.V. Giri | 1967-1969 | Labor Leader | Became President |
| Gopal Swarup Pathak | 1969-1974 | Chief Justice of India | – |
| B.D. Jatti | 1974-1979 | Former Chief Minister | Acting President |
| Justice M. Hidayatullah | 1979-1984 | Former Chief Justice | Acting President |
| R. Venkataraman | 1984-1987 | Defense Minister | Became President |
| Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma | 1987-1992 | Former Chief Minister | Became President |
| K.R. Narayanan | 1992-1997 | Diplomat, Scholar | Became President |
| Krishan Kant | 1997-2002 | Former Governor | Died in office |
| Bhairon Singh Shekhawat | 2002-2007 | Former Chief Minister | – |
| Mohammad Hamid Ansari | 2007-2017 | Diplomat, Scholar | – |
| M. Venkaiah Naidu | 2017-2022 | Former Union Minister | – |
| Jagdeep Dhankhar | 2022-Present | Former Governor | Current VP |
Important Facts for UPSC NDA
Historical Firsts:
- First Vice-President: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- Only VP to die in office: Krishan Kant
- Longest serving: Mohammad Hamid Ansari (10 years, 2007-2017)
- Only woman nominee: Margaret Alva (2022, defeated)
- Current Vice-President: C. P. Radhakrishnan (since 2025)
Unique Records:
- Most VPs who became President: 6 out of 13 Vice-Presidents
- Only Chief Justice as VP: Gopal Swarup Pathak and M. Hidayatullah
- Teacher’s Day Connection: September 5 (Dr. Radhakrishnan’s birthday)
- Youngest VP: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (at 63 years)
NDA Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for SSB Interview
Q1: What is the difference between Vice-President’s election and President’s election?
Answer: The key differences in electoral processes are:
Vice-Presidential Election:
- Electoral College: Only Parliament members (both houses)
- Nominated members: Can participate
- State Assemblies: Do not participate
- Voting system: Simple proportional representation
Presidential Election:
- Electoral College: Parliament + State Assemblies + Delhi & Puducherry
- Nominated members: Cannot participate
- Complex formula: Different vote values for MLAs and MPs
- Broader representation: Includes state legislatures
This difference ensures that the Vice-President represents parliamentary consensus while the President represents both central and state governments. UPSC NDA candidates must understand these electoral distinctions for constitutional law questions.
Q2: Can the Vice-President vote in Parliament as Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
Answer: The Vice-President, as Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha, has limited voting rights:
- Regular voting: Cannot participate in regular voting on bills or motions
- Casting vote: Can cast deciding vote only in case of tie
- Special circumstances: Casting vote is rarely used and considered ceremonial
- Constitutional principle: Maintains neutrality and impartiality
This arrangement ensures that the Chair remains neutral while providing a mechanism to break deadlocks. The casting vote power has been used very sparingly in parliamentary history, emphasizing the ceremonial nature of this provision.
Q3: What happens if both President and Vice-President are unavailable?
Answer: The Constitution provides a clear succession mechanism under Article 62:
- First Option: Vice-President acts as President
- Second Option: Chief Justice of India
- Third Option: Senior-most Supreme Court Judge
- Time Limit: New election must be held within 6 months
This hierarchy ensures continuity of constitutional governance under all circumstances. The Supreme Court’s involvement maintains judicial independence while providing executive continuity. Students should remember this succession order for UPSC NDA General Knowledge questions.
Q4: Why is Vice-President called Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha?
Answer: The term “Ex-officio” means “by virtue of office,” indicating that:
- Automatic appointment: Becomes Chairman automatically upon becoming VP
- Dual responsibility: Holds two offices simultaneously
- No separate election: No additional election required for Chairman position
- Constitutional design: Ensures experienced leadership for upper house
This arrangement provides stability to Rajya Sabha functioning and ensures that the Chairman has constitutional status independent of political parties. The Ex-officio nature prevents political manipulation of the Chairman’s position.
Q5: Can a sitting Vice-President contest for President?
Answer: Yes, a sitting Vice-President can contest for President, and this has happened frequently in Indian constitutional history:
Successful transitions: Six Vice-Presidents have become President:
- Dr. Radhakrishnan, Dr. Zakir Hussain, V.V. Giri, R. Venkataraman, Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, and K.R. Narayanan
Constitutional provisions:
- No bar on Vice-President contesting Presidential election
- Resignation required: Must resign VP office if elected President
- Practical advantage: VP’s experience and recognition help in Presidential elections
This transition pattern shows the Vice-Presidency as a stepping stone to Presidency in Indian political system.
NDA GAT Written Exam Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) of Vice President of India (Article 63)
Question 1: Which Article of the Constitution provides for the office of Vice-President?
a) Article 62
b) Article 63
c) Article 64
d) Article 65
Answer: b) Article 63
Explanation: Article 63 specifically establishes the office of Vice-President of India as the second-highest constitutional position in the country.
Question 2: Who participates in the election of Vice-President but not in Presidential election?
a) State Assembly members
b) Nominated MPs
c) Union Territory Assembly members
d) Local body representatives
Answer: b) Nominated MPs
Explanation: Nominated members of both houses of Parliament participate in Vice-Presidential elections but are excluded from Presidential elections.
Question 3: The Vice-President can be removed by:
a) Impeachment like President
b) Resolution in Rajya Sabha only
c) Resolution in Rajya Sabha agreed by Lok Sabha
d) Supreme Court order
Answer: c) Resolution in Rajya Sabha agreed by Lok Sabha
Explanation: Unlike Presidential impeachment, Vice-Presidential removal requires a resolution passed by Rajya Sabha and agreed to by Lok Sabha.
Question 4: The current monthly salary of Vice-President is:
a) ₹1.00 lakh
b) ₹1.25 lakh
c) ₹1.50 lakh
d) ₹2.00 lakh
Answer: b) ₹1.25 lakh
Explanation: The Vice-President receives ₹1.25 lakh per month as Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya Sabha, plus other allowances and benefits.
Question 5: Who was the first Vice-President of India?
a) Dr. Zakir Hussain
b) Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
c) V.V. Giri
d) Gopal Swarup Pathak
Answer: b) Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Explanation: Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan served as the first Vice-President from 1952-1962 and later became the second President of India.
Question 6: The Vice-President’s term of office is:
a) 4 years
b) 5 years
c) 6 years
d) Until 65 years of age
Answer: b) 5 years
Explanation: Like the President, the Vice-President serves a term of 5 years and can be re-elected for multiple terms without constitutional limit.
Question 7: Which Vice-President died in office?
a) B.D. Jatti
b) Justice Hidayatullah
c) Krishan Kant
d) Mohammad Hamid Ansari
Answer: c) Krishan Kant
Explanation: Krishan Kant is the only Vice-President who died in office during his tenure from 1997-2002.
Question 8: The Vice-President takes oath before:
a) Chief Justice of India
b) President of India
c) Prime Minister
d) Speaker of Lok Sabha
Answer: b) President of India
Explanation: The Vice-President takes oath before the President of India or a person appointed by the President for this purpose.
Key Differences: President vs Vice-President
| Aspect | President | Vice-President |
|---|---|---|
| Constitutional Article | Article 52 | Article 63 |
| Electoral College | Parliament + State Assemblies | Parliament only |
| Nominated Members | Cannot vote | Can vote |
| Primary Function | Head of State | Chairman of Rajya Sabha |
| Removal Process | Impeachment | Resolution method |
| Salary Source | Presidential emoluments | Rajya Sabha Chairman salary |
| Residence | Rashtrapati Bhavan | Vice-President Enclave |
Constitutional Significance
The Vice-President’s office serves multiple constitutional purposes:
Executive Continuity
- Ensures seamless transition during Presidential vacancy
- Provides constitutional stability during emergency situations
- Maintains executive authority without interruption
Legislative Leadership
- Provides experienced guidance to Rajya Sabha
- Ensures effective functioning of upper house
- Maintains parliamentary dignity and procedures
Federal Balance
- Represents parliamentary consensus rather than federal compromise
- Bridges executive and legislative branches effectively
- Supports democratic governance through dual responsibilities
Modern Relevance and Challenges
Contemporary Issues
- Role Definition: Balancing executive and legislative functions
- Political Neutrality: Maintaining impartiality as Rajya Sabha Chairman
- Ceremonial vs Substantial: Defining meaningful responsibilities
- Succession Planning: Preparing for Presidential transitions
Future Considerations
The Vice-President’s office continues evolving with India’s democratic maturity, requiring adaptation to changing political dynamics while maintaining constitutional principles and parliamentary traditions.
Conclusion
The Vice-President of India occupies a unique constitutional position that combines executive succession with legislative leadership. This dual role makes the office essential for both governmental continuity and parliamentary effectiveness in India’s democratic framework.
Understanding the Vice-President’s constitutional status, electoral process, powers, and functions provides crucial insights into India’s parliamentary system and federal structure. The office exemplifies the careful balance between ceremonial dignity and practical functionality that characterizes Indian constitutional design.
For UPSC NDA aspirants, mastering the Vice-President’s constitutional provisions, historical evolution, and contemporary relevance is essential for success in General Knowledge examinations. The integration of executive and legislative functions in this office represents a unique feature of Indian democracy.
The systematic study of Vice-Presidential elections, powers, and procedures, combined with knowledge of historical precedents and constitutional amendments, provides a comprehensive foundation for competitive examination success. Students should focus on understanding the philosophical underpinnings of this office and its role in India’s constitutional democracy.
Regular practice with multiple choice questions, analysis of constitutional provisions, and familiarity with recent developments related to the Vice-President’s office will enhance examination performance and deepen understanding of Indian polity fundamentals.
For comprehensive study materials on Indian Constitution and detailed coverage of executive branch topics, visit NDA Anand Classes for specialized UPSC NDA preparation resources, downloadable polity notes, and expert guidance on constitutional law subjects essential for competitive examination success.
📚 Buy Study Material & Join Our Coaching
For premium study materials specially designed for NDA Exam, visit our official study material portal:
👉 https://publishers.anandclasses.co.in/
For JEE/NEET Notes : Visit https://anandclasses.in/
For SSC Notes : Visit https://ssc.anandclasses.in/
To enroll in our offline or online coaching programs, visit our coaching center website:
👉 https://anandclasses.co.in/
📞 Call us directly at: +91-94631-38669
💬 WhatsApp Us Instantly
Need quick assistance or want to inquire about classes and materials?
📲 Click below to chat instantly on WhatsApp:
👉 Chat on WhatsApp
🎥 Watch Video Lectures
Get access to high-quality video lessons, concept explainers, and revision tips by subscribing to our official YouTube channel:
👉 Neeraj Anand Classes – YouTube Channel