Fundamental Duties of Indian Citizens


Origin

  • Added by: 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976
  • Based on: USSR Constitution
  • Part: Part IV-A of the Constitution
  • Article: 51A
  • Originally 10 duties, 11th added by: 86th Amendment Act, 2002

List of 11 Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)

Every citizen of India shall:

  1. Abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
  2. Cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national freedom struggle.
  3. Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
  4. Defend the country and render national service when called upon.
  5. Promote harmony and spirit of brotherhood among all people of India, transcending religious, linguistic, and regional differences; renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
  6. Value and preserve the rich heritage of India’s composite culture.
  7. Protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and have compassion for living creatures.
  8. Develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
  9. Safeguard public property and abjure violence.
  10. Strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity.
  11. Provide opportunities for education to children between the age of 6 and 14 years (added by 86th Amendment, 2002).