4. Knowing Our Fundamental Duties
4. Knowing Our Fundamental Duties
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Describe the fundamental duties as per the Constitution of India
Describe the fundamental duties as per the Constitution of India
The Indian Constitution does not only focus on rights but also duties that every citizen is expected to follow. These duties form an important aspect of our society. They help keep our country peaceful and make sure that everyone uses their rights in a fair way. Throughout this lesson, we will delve into the Fundamental Duties outlined in the Indian Constitution and understand them through real-world illustrations1.
There are eleven fundamental duties written under PART IV-A of the Indian Constitution for every citizen1.
1. To obey the Indian Constitution and respect the National Anthem and the Flag.
As responsible citizens, it is our duty to respect and uphold the Constitution of India. This means following the laws and regulations set forth in the Constitution. We should also respect our National Anthem and Flag 2.
For example, when we drive on the road, we should obey traffic rules and respect traffic signals. This simple act of following the rules is a way of abiding by the Constitution. Standing up during the National Anthem wherever you are is another way of fulfilling our duty as a citizen2.
2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom
This duty encourages us to appreciate and follow the values and principles that inspired the freedom struggle, such as non-violence, unity, and equality 2.
Be kind to your friends and classmates, even when you have disagreements. Instead of fighting, try to talk and understand each other's point of view 2.
When you see someone being bullied or treated unfairly, stand up for them and help them. This is a way of following the noble idea of equality and justice that inspired our freedom fighters 2.
3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India:
Sovereignty means that India is a free and independent country. We have our own government, and we make our own decisions2. This duty requires citizens to prioritise the interests of the nation above individual or sectional interests and to actively work towards preserving the unity and integrity of India.
Integrity means keeping our country whole and not letting it break into smaller pieces. We should prevent any divisions or separations that could harm our nation2.
4. To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so
It is the duty of every citizen to defend our country when the need arises. This doesn't mean we have to be soldiers in the army; we can contribute by being responsible and patriotic citizens 2.
We should provide national service by helping our country in times of need.It could be in times of natural disasters, emergencies, or any situation where our country needs us 2.
For instance, we can participate in cleanliness drives in our local areas.
During floods, earthquakes, or other disasters, we can volunteer to help. We might donate clothes, food, or our time to assist those in need 2.
5. To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India
Our Constitution encourages unity and the spirit of brotherhood among all citizens. To fulfil this duty, we should treat everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their religion, caste, or background2.
People from different religious and cultural backgrounds often come together to celebrate each other's festivals, promoting a sense of brotherhood and unity. For example, During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and break their fast in the evening during an event called "Iftar." Many Muslims invite people from other communities to join them in these Iftar parties thus, promoting the spirit of brotherhood2.
6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our culture:
India is a land of diverse cultures and traditions. As responsible citizens, we must protect and preserve our cultural heritage. We can do this by learning and sharing our traditions with others2.
For example, celebrating festivals of all religions with our families and friends helps preserve our rich heritage2.
7. To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife
It is our duty to keep our environment safe and healthy. We shouldn't harm it, and we should prevent others from causing harm2.
This duty also means making our environment even better than it is now. We should work to clean it up, plant more trees, and make sure the animals and plants have a safe and happy place to live2.
We can participate in tree-planting drives or practice waste segregation at home2.
Vid: 4.3 Afroz shah talks about clean up drive3
8. To develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform:
As citizens, it's essential to have a curious and scientific mindset. We should encourage the use of scientific knowledge for the betterment of society. It also tells us to treat people with respect and kindness2.
To develop a spirit of inquiry and reform means being ready to change things for the better. It's like trying to fix problems and make the world a nicer place2.
For example, when we conduct science experiments in school or engage in scientific queries by participating in science fairs and events. Also, visiting museums and planetariums to analyse information, evaluate sources, and think logically and rationally2.
9. To safeguard public property and to avoid violence:
Citizens can fulfil their duty to safeguard public property and abjure violence by respecting communal resources, reporting suspicious activities to authorities, and advocating for peaceful conflict resolution.
Promoting non-violent solutions while educating others about the importance of these principles are essential steps in preserving public spaces and fostering a safe and harmonious society2.
For instance, when we use public libraries and ensure that we return books in good condition, we are safeguarding public property2.
10. To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity:
We should always aim to excel in whatever we do, whether it's in our studies, sports, or any other activity. Striving for excellence means giving our best effort and being committed to our goals2.
Let's say your school starts a project to plant trees. When you and your friends work together to plant and care for the trees, you are striving towards excellence in a collective activity that benefits the environment2.
11. To make sure children between 6 and 14 years get an education.
This duty was added to the list to emphasise the importance of education in a child's development and to ensure that every child has access to learning opportunities during their formative years.
Providing education to children between the ages of six and fourteen is crucial for their intellectual, social, and emotional growth, setting a foundation for their future success and well-being.
It underscores the responsibility of parents or guardians to prioritise their child's education and support their learning journey.
Understanding and following these duties outlined in the Indian Constitution is vital for creating a just and harmonious society. Each of these duties contributes to the greater good of our nation. As responsible citizens, we should embrace these duties and work towards building a better India for all its citizens.
Glossary
Cherish: To value or love something deeply.
Render: To give or do something helpful.
Humanism: Treating all people kindly and fairly.
Reform: Making things better or fairer.
Abjure: To give up or say no to something like saying no to fighting.
Amendment: A change made to a law or rule.
Summary:
There are eleven Fundamental Duties written under PART IV-A of the Indian Constitution. These include:
To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem.
To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom.
To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India;
To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.
To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India.
To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.
To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.
To develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
To safeguard public property and to abjure violence;
To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity.
To provide opportunities for education to his child or, as the case may be, ward between the age of six and fourteen years.
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