The Fundamental Duties of citizens in the Indian Constitution were added by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976. They are a set of moral and civic obligations that citizens are expected to follow for the greater well-being of society and the nation. Though not legally enforceable through legal action, they serve as a reminder of the responsibilities that citizens bear in a democratic society. The Fundamental Duties are mentioned in Part IVA (Article 51A) of the Constitution. Here are the key Fundamental Duties:
1. To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem. (Article 51A(a))
2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom. (Article 51A(b))
3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India. (Article 51A(c))
4. To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so. (Article 51A(d))
5. To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities. (Article 51A(e))
6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture. (Article 51A(f))
7. To protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures. (Article 51A(g))
8. To develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform. (Article 51A(h))
9. To safeguard public property and to abjure violence. (Article 51A(i))
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. (Article 51A(j))
11. To provide opportunities for education to one's child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years. (Article 51A(k))
12. To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India, transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities. (Article 51A(l))
13. To renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women. (Article 51A(m))
14. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture. (Article 51A(n))
15. To protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures. (Article 51A(o))
16. To develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform. (Article 51A(p))
17. To safeguard public property and to abjure violence. (Article 51A(q))
18. 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. (Article 51A(r))
While the Fundamental Duties are not enforceable in courts, they are meant to serve as a moral and ethical guide for citizens to contribute positively to the nation's progress and development. The idea is to foster a sense of civic responsibility and promote a harmonious and inclusive society.
