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Notes

Fundamental Duties

Introduction

The **Fundamental Duties** are enshrined in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution. They were added by the **42nd Amendment** in 1976 during the Emergency. The duties aim to promote a sense of discipline and commitment among citizens towards the nation.

Historical Background

The idea of Fundamental Duties arose from the **Swaran Singh Committee** (1976) which recommended the incorporation of duties alongside rights.

The **Emergency period** (1975-1977) highlighted the need for citizens to uphold democratic values and national integrity.

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Constitutional Provisions

### Article 51A

Article 51A lists the Fundamental Duties of every citizen of India:

1. To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions.

2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our 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.

6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.

7. To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.

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.

### Part IVA

Fundamental Duties are included in **Part IVA** of the Constitution, distinct from Fundamental Rights, which are in **Part III**.

They are not legally enforceable but serve as a guiding principle for citizens and the state.

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Landmark Cases

### Keshavananda Bharati Case (1973)

**Significance**: Established the **Basic Structure Doctrine**, reinforcing the idea that Fundamental Duties complement Fundamental Rights.

The Supreme Court held that while rights can be curtailed, duties must also be recognized in maintaining democracy.

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Current Relevance

Fundamental Duties have gained significance in recent years amidst discussions on nationalism and civic responsibility.

They are often invoked in debates about the responsibilities of citizens in safeguarding democracy and the environment.

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Comparison with Fundamental Rights

| Aspect | Fundamental Rights | Fundamental Duties |

|---------------------------|--------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------|

| Legal Status | Enforceable in courts | Not enforceable |

| Nature | Individual rights | Duties towards the nation |

| Purpose | Protection of individual freedoms | Promotion of civic responsibilities |

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UPSC Exam Tips

Focus on the interplay between Fundamental Rights and Duties.

Understand the historical context and its implications on current affairs.

Revise landmark judgments related to Fundamental Duties for Mains preparation.

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Conclusion

The Fundamental Duties of citizens play a crucial role in fostering a sense of responsibility and civic consciousness essential for the growth of a democratic society. They remind citizens of their role in nation-building and the need to contribute positively to the community.

Important Facts

•[1976] Incorporation of Fundamental DutiesFundamental Duties were added to the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment, highlighting the need for civic responsibility during the Emergency.

•[1976] Swaran Singh CommitteeRecommended the inclusion of Fundamental Duties to enhance the moral fabric of the nation.

•[1973] Keshavananda Bharati CaseEstablished the Basic Structure Doctrine, emphasizing the importance of balancing rights with duties.

•[1993] Supreme Court's recognitionThe Supreme Court acknowledged the significance of Fundamental Duties in various judgments, reinforcing their moral authority.

•[2015] Public Awareness InitiativesThe Indian government launched various campaigns to educate citizens about their Fundamental Duties.

Mnemonics & Memory Tricks

DUTY

D - Defend the country, U - Uphold the Constitution, T - Promote harmony, Y - Yield to the law.

HEROIC

H - Heritage, E - Environment, R - Respect, O - Obey law, I - Integrity, C - Citizenship.

CIVIC

C - Cherish ideals, I - Inquiry and reform, V - Value culture, I - Integrity, C - Contribute to excellence.