Question

The powers and functions of the Vice President of India are:

He/She is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He presides over the meetings of the Rajya Sabha, conducts its proceedings and maintains the discipline and decorum of the House.

Since the Vice President is not a member of the Rajya Sabha, he/she does not participate in voting in the House. But in case of a tie, he/she can exercise his casting vote.

When the office of the President falls vacant due to death, resignation or impeachment, he/she takes over as the officiating President till a fresh election is held. As officiating President, he/she exercises all the powers privileges, etc. of the President of India.