UPSC Exam Preparation: Polity: Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties

This lecture covers Part III and Part IV A of the Indian Constitution dealing with Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties. Fundamental Rights are the rights available to the people of this country while Fundamental Duties are the obligations on part of the citizens. Fundamental Duties were added to the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act 1976 by the Indira Gandhi Government.

Here is a video lecture comprehensively covering the topic of Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties, a part of General Studies Paper 2 in UPSC Mains Exam. The topic is important from both Prelims as well as Mains Examination Perspective.

As IAS aspirants you should be well prepared with this topic as you can always expect UPSC prelims and mains questions on Fundamental Rights as well as Fundamental Duties.

About the Fundamental Rights

Fundamental rights are the basic human rights enshrined in the Constitution of India which are guaranteed to all citizens. There are six fundamental rights as per the Indian Constituion:

1. Right to Equality – Equal rights to all irrespective of religion, gender, caste, creed, etc.
2. Right to Freedom – This includes Freedom of speech, expression, assembly without arms, association,  practise any profession and reside in any part of the country
3. Right against Exploitation – Prohibition of human trafficking
4. Right to Freedom of Religion – Equal right must be given to all citizens to follow and preach the religion they wish
5. Cultural and Educational Rights – Every citizen has the right to get education and preserve their heritage and culture
6. Right to Constitutional Remedies – The Constitution guarantees remedies if citizens’ fundamental rights are violated

Aspirants can get a detailed Understanding of Fundamental Rights for UPSC Preparation at the linked article. 

About the Fundamental Duties

The list of 11 Fundamental Duties under article 51-A to be obeyed by every Indian citizen is given in the table below:

1. Abide by the Indian Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem
2. Follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom
3. Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India
4. Defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so
5. Promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India
6. Value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture
7. Protect and improve the natural environment and have compassion for all living creatures
8. Develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform
9. Safeguard public property 
10. Strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity  for the growth of the Nation
11. Provide opportunities for education to his child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years

For information about the Fundamental Duties, its constitutional importance and other relevant details, candidates can visit the linked article. 

Start your UPSC Preparation with BYJU’S and get the latest study material and notes for exam preparation.