UPSC Prelims 2016·GS1·polity-and-governance·federal structure

The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a resolution to that effect is passed by the

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. ALok Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
  2. BLok Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its total membership
  3. CRajya Sabha by a simple majority of its total membership
  4. DRajya Sabha by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and votingCorrect

Explanation

Article 249 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Parliament to legislate on any item enumerated in the State List. This power is exercised when the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) passes a resolution by a majority of not less than two-thirds of its members present and voting. Such a resolution declares that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest for Parliament to make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the State List. This power is typically for a period of one year but can be extended by further resolutions. It's important to note that this special power to legislate on the State List in national interest is vested specifically with the Rajya Sabha, reflecting its role in protecting the interests of the states.
polity-and-governance: The Parliament of India acquires the power to legislate on any item in the State List in the national interest if a reso
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