The Rajya Sabha, also known as the Council of States, is the upper house of the Parliament of India which is bicameral. As of 2023, it has a maximum membership of 245, of which 233 are elected by the State legislative assemblies of India and of union territories using single transferable votes through open ballots, while the President of India can appoint 12 members for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social service.