UPSC Prelims 2015 Q83: Indian Polity – Fundamental Duties
“To uphold and protect the Sovereignty, Unity and Integrity of India” is a provision made in
the
- (a) Preamble of the Constitution
- (b) Directive Principles of State Policy
- (c) Fundamental Rights
- (d) Fundamental Duties
Answer: (d) Fundamental Duties
Explanation
'To uphold and protect the Sovereignty, Unity and Integrity of India'
These words are Article 51A(c), one of the Fundamental Duties.
| Clause of Article 51A | Duty |
|---|---|
| (a) | Abide by the Constitution; respect the National Flag and National Anthem |
| (b) | Cherish the ideals of the freedom struggle |
| (c) | Uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India |
| (d) | Defend the country and render national service |
| (k) | Provide education to children aged 6 to 14 (added in 2002) |
Why not the others:
| Option | What it says |
|---|---|
| Preamble | Mentions 'unity and integrity of the Nation', but as an aim of fraternity, not as a duty |
| Directive Principles | Instructions to the State |
| Fundamental Rights | Rights of persons |
Answer: (d) Fundamental Duties.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. The Preamble speaks of unity and integrity but does not use this wording.
- (b) Incorrect. The Directive Principles are addressed to the State, not to citizens.
- (c) Incorrect. Fundamental Rights grant freedoms; they do not impose this duty.
- (d) CORRECT. It is a Fundamental Duty under Article 51A(c).
Key point
Article 51A(c): duty to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. Fundamental Duties were added by the 42nd Amendment (1976).
Remember
Sovereignty, unity, integrity = Article 51A(c).
Common mistakes
- Choosing the Preamble because it also has 'unity and integrity'.
- Forgetting that 'To uphold and protect' is the language of a duty.
- Mixing up clauses (c) and (d) of Article 51A.
Exam tip
A sentence starting with 'To ...' is a duty. Rights and principles are not phrased that way.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Article 51A
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity, chapter on Fundamental Duties