List of State Legislative Assemblies of India 2026

The State Legislative Assembly, or Vidhan Sabha, acts as the primary law-making body in Indian states and some Union Territories. It forms a crucial part of India’s federal structure. These assemblies debate and pass laws on subjects listed in the State List of the Constitution. 

Knowing the list of state legislative assemblies of India is important for UPSC CSE because it is associated with static polity, and helps in linking current affairs and analytical understanding.

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What is the State Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha)?

The State Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) is the directly elected house of a state legislature, where representatives chosen by the people (through universal adult franchise) make laws and oversee the functioning of the state government.

It is the lower house of the state legislature. Upper House (Vidhan Parishad) is found in some states, which reviews laws and has limited powers. The states having both houses are known to follow a bicameral system of legislature.

Constitutional Provisions of the State Legislative Assembly

Part VI of the Indian Constitution, specifically Articles 168 to 212, outlines the organisation, powers, and procedures of State Legislatures. This includes provisions for both Legislative Assemblies and Legislative Councils.

Composition of Legislative Assemblies

A State Legislative Assembly generally consists of members directly elected from territorial constituencies.

The Constitution sets limits for membership:

• Minimum Members: 60.
• Maximum Members: 500.

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However, some states have exceptions:

• Goa, Sikkim, and Mizoram have fewer than 60 members.
• Puducherry, a Union Territory, also has fewer than 60 members.
  The number of seats for each assembly changes based on population after each census. The Parliament can revise these numbers.

Powers and Functions of the State Legislative Assembly

State Legislative Assemblies perform several key functions:

• Legislative Power: They make laws on subjects listed in the State List and the Concurrent List.
• Financial Power: Money Bills can only originate in the Assembly. It controls state finances.
• Control over Executive: The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Assembly. A no-confidence motion can be moved only in the Assembly.
• Constituent Power: They participate in the election of the President of India.

Membership Qualifications for the State Legislative Assembly

To become a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA):

• Must be a citizen of India.
• Must be at least 25 years of age.
• Must be a registered voter in any constituency of that state.
• Must not hold any office of profit under the government (the person should not be working in a position under the government where they receive salary, benefits, or financial gain)
• Should have a stable and sound mental condition

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Duration of the State Legislative Assembly

The normal term for a Legislative Assembly is five years. However, the Governor can dissolve it earlier on the Chief Minister’s recommendation or if the government loses majority support. During a national emergency, Parliament can extend its term by one year at a time.

Complete List of State Legislative Assemblies of India

Here is a comprehensive list of state legislative assemblies of India, with their capitals and current number of seats. This data helps understand state-wise Vidhan Sabha seats and legislative assembly strength in India.

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State Legislative Assemblies (Vidhan Sabhas) form the backbone of state governance in India. They handle law-making, financial control, and executive accountability. Understanding their constitutional basis, composition, powers, and the complete state-wise list is essential for UPSC preparation, helping in both conceptual clarity and quick factual revision during the exam.

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