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

Correct Option (b):

The Constitution of India confers specific special powers on the Rajya Sabha, distinct from the Lok Sabha, in certain matters:

• Under Article 249, if the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting, it can declare that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest for Parliament to make laws on a matter enumerated in the State List. This resolution empowers Parliament to legislate on that State List subject for a specified period.
• Under Article 312, if the Rajya Sabha passes a resolution by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting, it can provide for the creation of one or more All India Services common to the Union and the States. Parliament then has the power to create such services by law.

Incorrect Options:

Option (a): To change the existing territory of a State and to change the name of a State

Article 3 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to form new states, alter the areas, boundaries, or names of existing states. A bill for this purpose can be introduced in either House of Parliament and passed by a simple majority. This is a legislative power exercised by Parliament as a whole, not an exclusive power of the Rajya Sabha.

Option (c): To amend the election procedure of the President and to determine the pension of the President after his/her retirement

Amendments to the Constitution, including those related to the President's election procedure, are governed by Article 368. Such amendments require passage by both Houses of Parliament with a special majority. The determination of the President's pension is also a matter for Parliament, not an exclusive power of the Rajya Sabha.

Option (d): To determine the functions of the Election Commission and to determine the number of Election Commissioners

Article 324 of the Constitution deals with the superintendence, direction, and control of elections. Parliament is empowered to make provisions with respect to all matters relating to elections, including the conditions of service and tenure of election commissioners. This is a legislative power exercised by both Houses of Parliament, not an exclusive power of the Rajya Sabha.