2020 · GS Paper 2 · Q14 · 15 marks
In the last few decades, Rajya Sabha has transformed from a 'useless stepney tyre' to a most useful supportive organ. Highlight the factors and the areas where this transformation could be visible.
In short
Coalition arithmetic since 1989, regional parties, standing committees and televised debate have turned the Rajya Sabha into a revising and federal chamber. Its Select Committee reshaped the Lokpal Bill in 2012, and it removed the 1% additional levy from the GST amendment in 2016.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 316 words
End of one-party dominance
Most governments since 1989 have lacked a Rajya Sabha majority; its rejection of the Prevention of Terrorism Bill forced a joint sitting in 2002.
Regional parties
Elected by State Assemblies, parties such as the BJD and YSRCP became swing blocs that governments must win over.
Committees and talent
Eight of the 24 standing committees (since 1993) work under it, and Manmohan Singh led the government from this House (2004-14).
Revising chamber
Its 2012 Select Committee reshaped the Lokpal Bill, and it removed the 1% additional levy from the GST amendment.
Check on haste
Its resistance let the 2015 land acquisition ordinance lapse after three promulgations.
Federal guardian
Articles 249 and 312 give it the exclusive power to open the State List to Parliament and to create new All India Services.
Space for members
It passed Tiruchi Siva's transgender rights private member's bill in 2015.
Federal character
Revisit the 2003 removal of the domicile rule, upheld in Kuldip Nayar (2006).
Money Bill bypass
Settle the Rojer Mathew (2019) reference so the Aadhaar route cannot sideline the House.
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This chapter in the exam
Parliament — Structure3 questions
Asked in 2 of 14 sittings since 2013
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.