The Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Indian Parliament and plays a crucial role in the Indian polity. Here are its powers and functions:

• Representation: Rajya Sabha represents the interests of the states and protects their rights.
• Approval of Legislation: Rajya Sabha approves or rejects the bills passed by the Lok Sabha.
• Impeachment: Rajya Sabha can initiate impeachment proceedings against the President, Chief Justice of India, and other high officials.
• Financial Bill: Money bills must be approved by Rajya Sabha before they reach the President.
• International Relations: Rajya Sabha plays a crucial role in international relations by ratifying treaties and agreements with foreign countries.
• Constitutional Amendment: Rajya Sabha has the power to pass constitutional amendments with a two-thirds majority vote.
• Overseas Indian affairs: Rajya Sabha addresses issues and concerns of Non-Resident Indians and persons of Indian origin living abroad.

The key difference between the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha is that Rajya Sabha is not directly elected by the people, but elected by members of State Assemblies. Additionally, the Rajya Sabha has a permanent house, while the Lok Sabha is dissolved every five years for fresh elections.