Our Constitution and the Salient Features of Our

Constitution.
Constitution:
Constitution is a comprehensive legal document that contains laws
according to which the country must be governed.
Date of adoption: 26th November 1949.
Date of enactment/came into force: 26th January 1950.
Significance of the Constitution:
Constitution saves the rights and freedoms of the citizens. In a democratic
set up where the government is of/for/by the people, it signifies value of the
people. So to administer the country rules and regulations are a must which
are contained in the constitution.
Features: Constitution:
Single citizenship: A person is a citizen of a country irrespective of whichever
state one belongs to. S/he enjoys all the benefits and privileges of being a
citizen.
Universal Adult Franchise:
Every citizen of India above the age of 18 has the right to vote and elect
representatives to the legislature irrespective of caste, colour, creed or
gender.
Fundamental Rights:
They are the basic freedoms/rights which are essential for an individual’s
all-round development. They are justiciable.
Significance of fundamental rights:
They provide for equality of status, opportunity and protection from
exploitation.
Fundamental Rights are not absolute. Reasonable restrictions are imposed
in order safeguard the interest of the country.
List (few) of Fundamental Rights:
- Right to Equality.
- Right to Freedom
- Right Against Exploitation
- Right to freedom of religion
- Cultural and Educational Rights
- Right to Constitutional Remedies
- Right to Education

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Fundamental Duties: The Fundamental Duties were added to the
Constitution in 1976, to make the people realise that we cannot enjoy rights
without following duties.
Significance of Fundamental Duties:
- Duties promote sense of discipline and commitment.
- Duties act as a warning against any anti social activity.

List (few) of Duties:

- Abide by the Constitution
- Respect the National flag and National anthem.
- Cherish and follow the noble ideals of freedom struggle.
- Uphold and protect the sovereignty, Unity and integrity of India.
- Defend and render national service when required.
- Safeguard public property.
Directive Principles of State Policy:
Directive Principles are the guidelines for a government to follow to achieve
certain set of objectives. They are for the government. They are not
justiciable but they aim to establish a Welfare State.
Whereas Fundamental Rights are for the citizens to enjoy. They are
justiciable. The aim is to establish political democracy.

Welfare State:
A state of social and economic justice, remove disparity among people.
Establishment of equality among all sections leading to fraternity.