Constitution · 11 entries

The Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)

The eleven duties of every citizen, added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment (1976) and the 86th Amendment (2002).

Clause	It is 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, and to 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 and to have compassion for living creatures
(h)	To develop the 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
(k)	For a parent or guardian, to provide opportunities for education to their child between the ages of six and fourteen (added in 2002)

The duties cannot be enforced by a court on their own, but courts use them to interpret laws.

Last updated 13 Nov 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.