Fundamental Duties in India: Article 51A and the amendment history
A revision guide to Part IVA, the ten duties inserted in 1976 and the later duty concerning children’s education.
Article 51A in Part IVA of the Constitution lists the Fundamental Duties of citizens. Ten duties were inserted by the 42nd Amendment in 1976; an additional duty concerning educational opportunities for children was added by the 86th Amendment in 2002.
Where Article 51A sits
Part IVA contains Fundamental Duties such as respecting the Constitution, protecting unity, preserving the environment and developing scientific temper. They differ from Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles of State Policy. The 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 inserted the original ten duties; the 86th Amendment Act, 2002 added the duty concerning a parent or guardian providing educational opportunities to a child or ward in the specified age group.
Exam revision tip
Remember the article and part: Article 51A, Part IVA. In a short answer, mention the amendment history and give examples. Avoid saying every duty is enforceable in exactly the same way as a Fundamental Right; the legal effect depends on the relevant constitutional and statutory context.
Editorial note
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Frequently asked questions
Which article contains the Fundamental Duties?
Article 51A in Part IVA.
How many were inserted in 1976?
Ten; an additional duty was added by the 86th Amendment in 2002.