Introduction

These were added by the 42^nd amendment in 1976. The list was created on the recommendation of the Swaran Singh Committee. They are influenced by the USSR constitution. None of the democratic countries except Japan have fundamental duties as a part of their constitutions. It is a feature common in constitutions of socialist countries. Article 51A.

The codified tasks are integral to the Indian way of life. Most of these duties are moral and others are civic.

They are applicable to citizens only and not aliens both friendly or enemy.

Articles on the Fundamental Duties

Article 51 a, it shall be the duty of every citizen of India:

(a) To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem;

(b) To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom;

(c) To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India;

(d) To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so;

(e) To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities and renounce Practices derogatory to the dignity of women;

(f) To value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture;

(g) To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, And to have compassion for living creatures;

(h) To develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform;

(i) To safeguard public property and to abjure violence;

(j) 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; and

(k) To provide opportunities for education to his child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years. This duty was added by the 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002.

Miscellaneous

They are non justifiable or non-enforceable by courts. However, parliament can enforce them by law.