ARTICLE 51A
Article 51A: Fundamental duties
Related: Part-IV DPSP
Part IVA of the Indian Constitution deals with Fundamental Duties. It was added to the Constitution in 1976 through the 42nd Amendment Act. The Fundamental Duties were added as a reminder to the citizens of India that while they enjoy certain rights, they also have certain duties towards the nation and society. The Fundamental Duties are not just moral obligations, but are enforceable by law.
The Fundamental Duties are as follows:
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 which inspired our 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 endeavour and achievement.
It is the duty of every citizen to follow these Fundamental Duties and to help in building a strong and prosperous nation. The government also has a responsibility to promote awareness about these duties and to take necessary steps to ensure their enforcement.
In conclusion, the Fundamental Duties are an essential part of the Indian Constitution and play a crucial role in building a responsible and democratic society. By fulfilling these duties, citizens can contribute towards the overall development and progress of the nation.