⚖️ Polity & GovernanceUPSC 2012Salient Features of RPA

Which of the following special powers have been conferred on the Rajya Sabha by the Constitution of India?

aTo change the existing territory of a State and to change the name of a State.
bTo pass a resolution empowering the Parliament to make laws in the State List and to create one or more All India Services.
cTo amend the election procedure of the President and to determine the pension of the President after his/her retirement.
dTo determine the functions of the Election Commission and determine the number of Election Commissioners.
✓ Correct answer: b) To pass a resolution empowering the Parliament to make laws in the State List and to create one or more All India Services.
ExplanationThe Rajya Sabha has been given four exclusive or special powers that are not enjoyed by the Lok Sabha:It can authorise the Parliament to make a law on a subject enumerated in the State List (Article 249).It can authorise the Parliament to create new All-India Services common to both the Centre and states (Article 312).Resolution for the removal of the vice-president can be introduced only in the Rajya Sabha not in the Lok Sabha (Article 67).A proclamation for declaring a national emergency, President’s rule, or a financial emergency (under Articles 352, 356, and 360) can remain in effect even if it is approved only by the Rajya Sabha in case the Lok Sabha is dissolved before or during the emergency period.185

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