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Our Constitution and its Salient Features
Class 9


Q1. What is meant by the term Constitution ?
Ans :-  Constitution is a comprehensive document containing the set of rules according to which the government of a country runs. It regulates the position and powers of the three organs of the government- the legislative, the executive and the judiciary; and states and how they are inter-related. It assumes special importance as it moderates relations between the governments and the governed. It protects the interests of the citizens by restraining the government from taking arbitrary decisions. 

Q2. What was the significance of January 26 ?
Ans:- On 26th January 1929, at Lahore Session, Indian National Congress for the first time had given the call for Purna Swaraj or Complete Independence. This day since then was celebrated as Independence Day up to 1947. On achieving Independence, 15th August 1947 became the Independence Day. January 26 was designated as the Republic Day.

Q3. What is meant by the term 'Single Citizenship ?
Ans:- This means that all Indians irrespective of the State of their domicile are the citizens of India.  For example, a person born in Punjab or in Kerala can only be a citizen of India and not a citizen of the State of their domicile as well. This has been done to ward of separatist tendencies and promote fraternity and unity among the people.

Q4. What are the fundamental duties ?
Ans:- Fundamental Duties are added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 and inserted in Part IV of the Constitution. 
The Article 51-A of the Constitution states these duties of a citizen:-
  1. To abide by the constitution and to respect the national flag and the national anthem.
  2. To follow the noble ideals.
  3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.
  4. To defend the country and to render national service.
  5. To promote harmony and brotherhood.
  6. To preserve rich cultural heritage.
  7. To protect natural environment.
  8. To develop scientific temper, humanism and spirit of enquiry.
  9. To safeguard public property and abjure violence.
  10. To strive for excellence.
Duty of the parent/guardian to provide education to his child of 6 to 14 years of age. (added by 86th  Amendment Act of 2002)
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