In 1976, the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee proposed the inclusion of Fundamental Duties, recognizing its importance during the internal emergency of 1975-77. Consequently, a new section, Part IV A, was incorporated into the Constitution, comprising Article 51A containing ten Fundamental Duties. In 2002, the 86th Amendment Act added another Fundamental Duty. The concept of Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution was adopted from the Constitution of the former USSR.
Fundamental Duties encompass both moral and civic obligations applicable solely to citizens. Similar to the Directive Principles of State Policy, they are non-justiciable but can be enforced by the Parliament through appropriate legislation. The Constitution guarantees the following Fundamental Duties:
- Adherence to the Constitution, respecting its ideals, institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
- Embracing and following the noble ideals that fueled the national struggle for freedom.
- Upholding and safeguarding the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
- Defending the country and providing national service when called upon.
- Promoting harmony and a spirit of common brotherhood.
- Valuing and preserving the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture.
- Protecting and enhancing the natural environment.
- Cultivating scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of inquiry and reform.
- Safeguarding public property and renouncing violence.
- Striving for excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity.
These Fundamental Duties serve to make citizens aware of their responsibilities alongside enjoying their rights.
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