Indian Constitution: (Article 51A) Fundamental Duties

Part IVA of the Indian Constitution, introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, encompasses Article 51A, which specifies the Fundamental Duties of the

Fundamental Duties

Part IVA of the Indian Constitution, introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, encompasses Article 51A, which specifies the Fundamental Duties of the citizens of India. This addition was inspired by the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee and aimed to emphasize the importance of duties alongside the Fundamental Rights granted to citizens. Fundamental Duties serve as a reminder to citizens that while they enjoy certain rights, they also have responsibilities towards the nation and society at large.

Article 51A - Fundamental Duties

It outlines a list of duties that every citizen is expected to perform. These include:

• To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
• To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom.
• To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
• To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.
• To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
• To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.
• To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.
• To develop the scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
• To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.
• To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and achievement.
• Who is a parent or guardian, to provide opportunities for education to his child, or as the case may be, ward between the age of six and fourteen years. (This duty was added by the 86th Amendment in 2002.)

Fundamental Duties of India Explained in Easy way

The Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution are like important promises or tasks that every citizen of India is encouraged to follow. These duties are mentioned in Article 51A of the Constitution. They were added to remind citizens that while they enjoy their rights, they also have responsibilities towards their country, society, and environment. Here's a simple explanation of each duty:

Respect the Constitution and National Symbols: Everyone should follow the rules of the Constitution and show respect to national symbols like the National Flag and the National Anthem.

Follow the Freedom Fighters' Values: We should remember and carry forward the values and spirit of the people who fought for India's freedom.

Protect the Country: It's important to be ready to defend India and contribute to its safety and security if needed.

Promote Unity and Brotherhood: We should live peacefully with everyone, appreciate our differences, and treat everyone with respect, no matter their background.

Preserve Our Heritage: India has a rich history and diverse cultures. We should take care of and celebrate this heritage.

Protect the Environment: It's our job to look after our natural surroundings, including plants, animals, rivers, and forests.

Develop a Scientific Outlook: We should think logically, encourage scientific thinking, and be open to new ideas that help society.

Protect Public Property: We should take care of things that belong to everyone, like parks, roads, and public buildings, and not damage them.

Strive for Excellence: Whatever we do, we should try our best to do it well, aiming to make our country proud.

Educate Children: If you are a parent or guardian, make sure your children or those you look after go to school and learn, especially if they are between 6 and 14 years old.

These duties are not enforced by law, but they are important for being good citizens and contributing positively to the development of the country.

Significance:

Fundamental Duties are a non-justiciable part of the Constitution, which means they are not enforceable by courts. However, they serve as an ethical and moral guide for citizens, aiming to foster a sense of discipline and commitment towards the nation. These duties are intended to complement the Fundamental Rights, creating a balance between the privileges enjoyed by citizens and their obligations to the state and their fellow citizens. The inclusion of Fundamental Duties was a step towards embedding the essence of citizenship with a sense of responsibility and participation in the nation's governance and society's well-being.