Fundamental Duties
The idea of fundamental duty refers to a sense of moral obligations and responsibilities that an individual should uphold as a member of society and a nation. It serves as a moral compass for individuals, guiding them to act responsibly, ethically and with consideration for the nation’s well-being.
- It is often associated with the concept of citizenship and a sense of commitment towards the welfare and progress of the nation.
- The fundamental duties and the fundamental rights are interrelated concepts. The rights can be properly realised if the citizens perform their duty. If one performs his/her duty, the rights of others are safeguarded.
- The Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution takes inspiration from the Constitution of the erstwhile USSR.
- The original Constitution of India, which came into effect on 26 January 1950, did not contain the provision of fundamental duties. It was anticipated that citizens would willingly perform their duty.
- The fundamental duties were added to the Constitution through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976, on the recommendation of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee. It inserted Article 51A in the Part 4A of the Constitution. It came into effect on 3 January 1977.
Swaran Singh Committee |
|
Related FAQs of Fundamental Duties
Fundamental Duties are moral obligations listed in Article 51A (Part IV-A) of the Indian Constitution. They guide citizens to act responsibly and contribute to the nation’s unity, integrity, and welfare.
There are 11 Fundamental Duties listed in Article 51A of the Constitution. Initially, there were 10 duties added by the 42nd Amendment Act (1976). The 11th duty, related to providing education to children, was added in 2002.
No, Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced in a court of law directly. However, Parliament can make laws to ensure compliance with some duties, like respecting the National Flag or protecting nature.
The Fundamental Duties were added through the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee, to remind citizens of their responsibilities while enjoying their Fundamental Rights.
Performing Fundamental Duties strengthens national unity, promotes responsible citizenship, protects the environment, ensures respect for diversity, and helps in building a morally responsible and progressive society.
![Mauryan Empire (321-185 Bce): Rulers, Map, &Amp; Administration [Complete Notes For Upsc Exams]](https://www.99notes.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/mauryan-empire-99notes-upsc-1-768x495.webp "Mauryan Empire (321-185 Bce): Rulers, Map, &Amp; Administration [Complete Notes For Upsc Exams] | Updated April 24, 2025")
