UPSC Prelims 2012 · Question 59 of 98
UPSC Prelims 2012 question on Fundamental Duties List
- ExamUPSC CSE
- Year2012
- PaperGeneral Studies Paper I
- SubjectPolity
- TopicFundamental Duties
- DifficultyEasy
- TypeStatement
Which of the following is/are among the Fundamental Duties of citizens laid down in the Indian Constitution?
1. To preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.
2. To protect weaker sections from social injustice.
3. To develop scientific temper and spirit of inquiry.
4. To strive towards excellence.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
Show answer
Answer: C. 1, 3 and 4 only
Verdict
Correct Answer: 1, 3 and 4 only
Analysis
Fundamental Duties are citizen-centric obligations listed under Article 51A of the Constitution.
The protection of weaker sections from social injustice is a Directive Principle of State Policy, not a Fundamental Duty.
Statement by statement
1. To preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture — Correct
This is a Fundamental Duty under Article 51A(f).
Every citizen has the duty to value and preserve the rich heritage of India’s composite culture.
2. To protect weaker sections from social injustice — Incorrect
This is not a Fundamental Duty.
It is a Directive Principle under Article 46, which directs the State to promote the educational and economic interests of SCs, STs and other weaker sections and protect them from social injustice and exploitation.
3. To develop scientific temper and spirit of inquiry — Correct
This is a Fundamental Duty under Article 51A(h).
Citizens are expected to develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
4. To strive towards excellence — Correct
This is a Fundamental Duty under Article 51A(j).
Citizens should strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity.
Extra UPSC info
* Fundamental Duties are listed under Article 51A.
* They were added by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976.
* They were recommended by the Swaran Singh Committee.
* The 86th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2002 added the 11th Fundamental Duty related to education of children aged 6 to 14 years.
* Fundamental Duties are inspired by the Constitution of the former USSR.
* Fundamental Duties are non-justiciable, but Parliament can make laws to enforce them.
* Do not confuse Fundamental Duties with DPSPs: Duties are citizen-centric, while DPSPs are state-centric.
How to crack it
Preserving composite culture, developing scientific temper and striving for excellence are Fundamental Duties, while protecting weaker sections from social injustice is a DPSP.