## **Core Concept**
The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of the Parliament of India. It has a total of 245 members, with 233 members elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies and 12 members nominated by the President of India. The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution, but its members retire on a staggered basis.

## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The Rajya Sabha has a term of six years, but to ensure continuity, its members do not all retire at once. Instead, **one-third of the members retire every two years**. This staggered retirement ensures that there is continuity in the composition of the Rajya Sabha and allows for a smooth transition of members over time. The retirement schedule is based on the Rajya Sabha (Number of Members) Act, 1956, and the rules framed under the Constitution of India.

## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A:** This option suggests one-third of the members retire every year, which is incorrect because it would lead to a complete turnover of members in three years, undermining the body's continuity.
- **Option C:** This option suggests one-third retire every three years, which would mean all members would retire in nine years, not providing the staggered continuity intended.
- **Option D:** This option suggests one-third retire every six years, which would imply no retirements for two full terms, contradicting the purpose of staggered retirements.

## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
While this question does not directly pertain to clinical medicine, a high-yield fact for any medical professional or student interested in medical law or healthcare policy is to understand the basic structure and functions of governmental bodies like the Rajya Sabha. Knowing that **one-third of Rajya Sabha members retire every two years** can help in understanding staggered terms in other contexts, such as in professional or organizational governance.

## **Correct Answer:** B. 2 years.