The Vice-President of India is elected by an ‘Electoral College’ consisting of members of both the Houses of Parliament. The procedure of his election consists of a secret ballot proportional representation and single transferable vote. An absolute majority of votes polled is required for the election of the Vice-President of India. Functions: (i) The Vice-President of India is the Ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He presides over the meetings of the Rajya Sabha. (ii) The Vice-President of India officiates as the President for six months till a new President is elected. (iii) The Vice-President can also act as a President when the latter is unable to discharge his functions due to illness, resignation, removal and absence. When the Vice-President discharges the functions of the President, he is entitled to same privileges and powers.