India is gearing up for the 2025 Vice Presidential election, and the buzz is real. Whether you follow politics daily or just heard the news over coffee, you’ll want to know who’s in the running, what the job actually involves, and how the outcome could shape the nation.
So far, three names dominate the conversation. First, there’s a veteran lawmaker from the ruling party who has spent two decades in Parliament and is known for his calm under pressure. Then, an opposition star who made a name as a social activist and recently entered the Rajya Sabha. Finally, a former bureaucrat with a reputation for getting things done, now backed by a coalition of regional parties. Each candidate brings a different flavor: experience, reformist zeal, and administrative know‑how.
Polls suggest the veteran lawmaker holds a slight edge, but the race is far from decided. Campaign rallies, televised debates, and social media pushes are already shaping voter perception. If you’re scrolling through news feeds, you’ll spot a flood of interview clips and policy teasers – all aimed at winning the 250‑member electoral college that actually votes.
The Vice President isn’t just a backup for the President. The constitution assigns two key roles: first, the VP is the ex‑officio Chairperson of the Rajya Sabha, meaning they preside over the Upper House and can influence debate flow. Second, they step in as President if the incumbent can’t fulfill duties. This dual responsibility makes the position more strategic than many think.
In practice, a strong Vice President can help pass legislation, mediate between parties, and keep the Rajya Sabha’s agenda moving smoothly. Think of them as the house moderator who can also become the head of state overnight – a rare blend of influence.
Beyond formal duties, the VP often becomes the public face of the ruling coalition’s long‑term goals. They travel across states, meet community leaders, and champion issues like women’s empowerment, education, and rural development. If the upcoming VP can rally public support on these fronts, it could set the tone for the next President’s term.
So, why should you care? The Vice President’s stance on key bills can affect everything from economic reforms to social policies. Their ability to keep the Rajya Sabha functional influences how quickly new laws pass, which in turn impacts daily life – from job creation to infrastructure projects.
Keep an eye on the candidates’ positions on hot topics like digital governance, climate action, and regional autonomy. Those signals often hint at how the upcoming government will prioritize spending and reforms.
In short, the 2025 Vice Presidential race is more than a footnote. It’s a preview of India’s political direction for the next five years. Stay tuned to South Asian Regional News for real‑time updates, expert analysis, and behind‑the‑scenes looks at the campaign trail.
CP Radhakrishnan has been elected India's Vice President in 2025, after an indirect vote of MPs from both Houses. Backed by the ruling alliance, he defeated the opposition nominee. A two-time MP from Coimbatore and Governor of Jharkhand since 2023, he will now chair the Rajya Sabha. Here’s how the election works, his political journey, and what this means for Parliament.