11 Fundamental Duties of Indian Citizens

The Indian Constitution was formulated incrementally, offering a functional framework that encompasses the rights, authorities, practices, processes, and obligations of the government. It also lays forth fundamental obligations and rights that citizens are required to uphold, accordingly.

The Swaran Singh committee, which Indira Gandhi formed shortly after the imposition of a national emergency, recommended adding the fundamental obligations to the constitution, and it did so in 1976. The 42nd Amendment, which includes the essential obligations under the Indian Constitution, was one of the modifications made by the government to the Constitution. Another amendment was made to the Preamble.

Learn About Important Fundamental Duties of Indians

However, under Article 51A, Part IV-A of the Indian Constitution, the initial 10 obligations were raised to 11 by the 86th Amendment in 2002.

The 10 Fundamental duties 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 that 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 among all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities.
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 wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.
8. To develop 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.

The 11^th Fundamental duty which was added to this list is:

11. To provide opportunities for education to children between 6-14 years of age and duty as parents to ensure that such opportunities are being awarded to their child.

Citizens need to be aware of these duties and strive to fulfill them for the betterment of society and the nation. Fundamental duties serve as a source of protection for the liberty of the people.

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Why Do We Need Fundamental Duties?

The inclusion of Fundamental Duties in a nation’s constitution is imperative for several reasons. Firstly, it establishes a balance between individual rights and societal responsibilities. While citizens enjoy certain fundamental rights, it is equally essential for them to recognize and fulfill corresponding duties towards the larger community. This balance contributes to the overall well-being of society.

Fundamental Duties also play a crucial role in promoting social harmony. By emphasizing values such as promoting brotherhood and respecting diversity, these duties serve as a unifying force in a nation with a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions. Moreover, duties related to upholding the sovereignty and integrity of the country foster a sense of patriotism and loyalty among citizens, contributing to national unity. Environmental conservation is another critical aspect addressed by Fundamental Duties. By recognizing the duty to protect and improve the natural environment, citizens are encouraged to act responsibly towards ecological sustainability, contributing to the larger goal of environmental preservation.

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Fundamental Duties act as a tool for civic education, promoting moral values and ethical conduct. They help instill a sense of responsibility, discipline, and civic consciousness, shaping individuals into responsible citizens. The duty to develop a scientific temper and the spirit of inquiry encourages a rational mindset, crucial for societal progress.

Safeguarding public property and abjuring violence, as outlined in the Fundamental Duties, contribute to the maintenance of law and order in society. By discouraging destructive behavior and promoting non-violence, these duties create a conducive environment for peaceful coexistence.

Furthermore, the duty to provide education to one’s child underscores the significance of education in personal and societal development. This duty encourages active parental involvement in the educational process, contributing to the overall intellectual and social progress of the nation.

In essence, Fundamental Duties are essential for building a responsible and harmonious society. They guide citizens in their moral and civic obligations, fostering a collective ethos that is vital for the sustained progress and well-being of the nation.

Ms. Mohini Taneja

Assistant Professor

School of Law

Lingayas Vidyapeeth

Lingaya’s Vidyapeeth is the Best college in Delhi NCR for LLB and LLM programs, offering authorized degrees and invaluable practical experience in the legal field. Its rigorous curriculum ensures students are well-equipped for future career opportunities, making it the ideal choice for aspiring legal professionals seeking a fulfilling future.