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Significance of Fundamental Duties

Fundamental Duties, outlined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, are obligations for citizens to promote national unity and integrity, introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976. These duties include respecting national symbols, defending the country, and providing education to children, emphasizing the balance between rights and responsibilities. While not legally enforceable, they serve as a moral guide for responsible citizenship and contribute to a progressive society.

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71 views3 pages

Significance of Fundamental Duties

Fundamental Duties, outlined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, are obligations for citizens to promote national unity and integrity, introduced by the 42nd Amendment in 1976. These duties include respecting national symbols, defending the country, and providing education to children, emphasizing the balance between rights and responsibilities. While not legally enforceable, they serve as a moral guide for responsible citizenship and contribute to a progressive society.

Uploaded by

Shishir
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Fundamental Duties: The Cornerstone of

Responsible Citizenship
Introduction

The Constitution of India not only grants rights to its citizens but also
imposes certain obligations known as Fundamental Duties. These duties,
enshrined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, serve as a moral and
ethical guide for citizens to contribute to the nation's unity, integrity, and
development.

Origin and Significance

The concept of Fundamental Duties was introduced by the 42nd


Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, based on the recommendations of
the Swaran Singh Committee. Initially, there were 10 duties, but an 11th
duty was added in 2002 by the 86th Amendment Act, which mandates
providing opportunities for education to children between the ages of 6 and
14.

These duties were inspired by the Constitution of the USSR and aim to
remind citizens that while they enjoy rights, they must also fulfill
responsibilities towards the nation.

List of Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)

Every Indian citizen must:

1. Respect the Constitution, National Flag, and National Anthem.

2. Follow the noble ideals of the freedom struggle.

3. Uphold the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.


4. Defend the country and render national service when called upon.

5. Promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all


people.

6. Preserve the rich heritage of India’s composite culture.

7. Protect and improve the natural environment.

8. Develop scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of inquiry.

9. Safeguard public property and avoid violence.

10. Strive for excellence in all individual and collective activities.

11. Provide education to children between 6-14 years (added in


2002).

Importance of Fundamental Duties

1. Strengthens Democracy – By encouraging civic responsibility, duties


ensure active participation in nation-building.

2. Promotes Discipline & Patriotism – Citizens become more conscious of


their role in maintaining national integrity.

3. Environmental Protection – Duty to protect nature ensures sustainable


development.

4. Legal & Moral Obligation – Though not directly enforceable, courts


consider them while interpreting laws.

5. Balances Rights & Duties – Reminds citizens that rights come with
responsibilities.
Criticism & Challenges

 Non-Justiciable Nature – Unlike Fundamental Rights, duties cannot be


enforced by law.

 Lack of Awareness – Many citizens are unaware of their duties.

 Limited Scope – Some critics argue that duties should be expanded to


include tax compliance, voting, etc.

Conclusion

Fundamental Duties play a crucial role in shaping a responsible and


conscious citizenry. While they are not legally binding, they serve as a moral
compass for individuals to contribute positively to society. By fulfilling these
duties, citizens can help build a stronger, more united, and progressive India.

"Rights and duties go hand in hand; one cannot exist


without the other."

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