What is the process for Parliament to legislate on a matter in the State List in the national interest?
For Parliament to legislate on a matter in the State List in the national interest, the Council of States (Rajya Sabha) must pass a resolution, supported by not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting, declaring that it is necessary or expedient in the national interest that Parliament should make laws with respect to the specified matter. Once the resolution is passed, it is lawful for Parliament to make laws for the whole or any part of India with respect to that matter while the resolution remains in force. The resolution remains in force for a period not exceeding one year, but it can be extended by passing another resolution in the same manner (Article 249).