Source Of Fundamental Duties In India

by Olex Johnson 38 views

Hello there! I see you're curious about the origins of Fundamental Duties in India. You've come to the right place! I'll provide you with a clear, detailed, and correct answer.

Correct Answer

India's Fundamental Duties were inspired by the Constitution of the Soviet Union (now Russia).

Detailed Explanation

So, let's dive deep into this topic! It's a critical aspect of Indian Polity and understanding its source is key to grasping its significance.

What are Fundamental Duties?

Fundamental Duties are the moral obligations that every citizen of India has towards the country and its people. They were added to the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976, based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee. These duties are enshrined in Article 51A of the Constitution.

The Soviet Union's Influence

The idea of incorporating Fundamental Duties into the Indian Constitution was heavily influenced by the Constitution of the Soviet Union. The Soviet Constitution placed a strong emphasis on the responsibilities of citizens towards the state. This concept resonated with Indian policymakers who sought to instill a sense of civic responsibility among the citizens of India.

Key Concepts

Let's break down some key concepts to understand this better:

  • Constitution: The supreme law of the land, outlining the framework of government and the rights and duties of citizens.
  • 42nd Amendment Act (1976): A significant amendment to the Indian Constitution that introduced major changes, including the incorporation of Fundamental Duties.
  • Swaran Singh Committee: A committee formed to make recommendations on constitutional amendments, including the addition of Fundamental Duties.
  • Article 51A: The article in the Indian Constitution that lists the Fundamental Duties of citizens.
  • Soviet Union: A former socialist state that influenced many aspects of the Indian Constitution.

Why the Soviet Union?

The choice to draw inspiration from the Soviet Union wasn't arbitrary. The Soviet model emphasized the role of citizens in contributing to the collective good. This idea aligned with the Indian government's goal of promoting national unity and social responsibility in the wake of various challenges faced by the nation.

The Context of the 42nd Amendment

The 42nd Amendment was enacted during a period of significant political and social change in India. The inclusion of Fundamental Duties was seen as a way to reinforce the importance of civic responsibility and national unity, especially during a time when the country was grappling with internal and external issues. The amendment was also intended to balance the emphasis on Fundamental Rights with the duties of citizens towards the state.

Details of Fundamental Duties

The Fundamental Duties listed in Article 51A are as follows:

  1. To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem.
  2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired the national struggle for freedom.
  3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.
  4. To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.
  5. 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.
  6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of the country's composite culture.
  7. To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures.
  8. To develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
  9. To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.

The Significance

Fundamental Duties are not legally enforceable in the same way as Fundamental Rights. However, they serve as a moral compass for citizens, guiding them towards responsible and patriotic behavior. While the duties are not directly enforceable by the courts, they play a crucial role in shaping the character of the nation.

Comparison with Other Constitutions

It's interesting to note that the concept of Fundamental Duties is not unique to India. Many other constitutions around the world also include provisions for the responsibilities of citizens. However, the specific duties and their emphasis may vary depending on the country's history, culture, and political system. The Indian model, influenced by the Soviet Union, provides a unique blend of duties and rights.

Modern Relevance

In today's context, Fundamental Duties remain highly relevant. They encourage citizens to participate actively in the democratic process, protect the environment, and uphold the values of the Constitution. They are a reminder that citizenship is not just about enjoying rights but also about fulfilling responsibilities.

Key Takeaways

Here's a quick recap of the main points:

  • Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution were inspired by the Constitution of the Soviet Union.
  • They were added through the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976.
  • The Swaran Singh Committee recommended their inclusion.
  • They promote civic responsibility, national unity, and environmental protection.
  • They are not legally enforceable, but they carry significant moral weight.

I hope this detailed explanation helps you understand the origins and significance of Fundamental Duties in India. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!