Polity

Fundamental Duties: Article 51A Explained

Fundamental Duties are listed in Part IVA, Article 51A of the Constitution. They were added by the 42nd Amendment (1976) on the recommendation of the Swaran Singh Committee. There were ten duties at first, and an eleventh was added by the 86th Amendment (2002). They are non-justiciable.

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

Key facts

Inspired by the Constitution of the USSR.
The eleventh duty makes it a duty of a parent or guardian to provide opportunities for education to a child between six and fourteen years.
Duties apply to citizens only, not to foreigners.
They are not directly enforceable, but courts may use them to interpret laws.

Examples of duties

Abide by the Constitution and respect the National Flag and National Anthem.
Cherish the ideals of the freedom struggle and uphold the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.
Protect and improve the natural environment, and have compassion for living creatures.
Safeguard public property and abjure violence.
Develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry.

Frequently asked questions

How many Fundamental Duties are there?

Eleven.

Which committee recommended Fundamental Duties?

The Swaran Singh Committee (1976).

Are Fundamental Duties enforceable?

No, they are non-justiciable.