Indians have always been educated and taught in a manner that they work towards fulfilling their ‘Kartavya’ or duty towards their country. The basic fact is that if the citizens expect their constitution to entitle them to a certain set of rights, they must fulfill their duties as responsible citizens, and that is how things will be handled smoothly and harmoniously. The fundamental responsibilities of an individual need to be fulfilled not just for their well-being but also as reciprocation for being entitled to fundamental rights that safeguard their interests.

The 42nd amendment in the constitution under the Swaran Singh Committee planned to introduce the concept of fundamental duties for the Indian citizens. All the fundamental duties of an Indian citizen are listed in Article-51 of the Indian constitution. In 1976, 10 fundamental duties were planned to be put forth, but in 2002 another addition was made, making the total number of fundamental duties 11.

List of fundamental duties

Mentioned below is a list of fundamental duties that every citizen of India must abide by and follow to ensure a sovereign, socialist, democratic, republic, and secular state. 

1. To abide by the Indian constitution and respect all its institutions.
2. To follow the ideas that led India towards independence and cherish the struggle for freedom.
3. To protect the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our country.
4. To defend our country and be ready to render national service as and when required.
5. To promote brotherhood and harmony among people belonging to different regions, speaking diverse languages, practicing different customs and beliefs. 
6. To preserve and value the cultural heritage of our country. 
7. To contribute towards the protection and improvement of our natural environment, including forests, rivers, wildlife, and lakes.
8. To develop humanism, the spirit of reform, and scientific temperament.
9. To safeguard public property. 
10. To work towards achieving excellence in all fields, including personal and collective activities, and to take the nation towards greater heights.
11. A guardian must ensure proper educational facilities to their ward to help them build a stable and secure future.

One must be aware of all these duties and realize the importance of these fundamental duties to lead a happy life in our country.

Importance of fundamental duties

1. A constant reminder to fulfill the duty towards the nation

The fundamental duties are a reminder to every Indian citizen that while being entitled to all the fundamental rights, there are some duties that they need to perform and fulfill while working towards building a great nation. They must understand that rights and duties go hand in hand. 

1. A warning against anti-social activities

For those, who find fun in violation of basic rules and causing damage to the public property or burning the Indian flag, or hampering the peace of the general public in any way, these fundamental duties are a reminder that if not followed properly, they may lead to severe consequences.

1. A sense of commitment and discipline

They inculcate patriotic feelings and instill a sense of commitment and discipline among the people. They are a constant reminder of the duties that you have towards your country and how their fulfillment is very important for your betterment and the betterment of the country altogether.

1. Help to determine whether a law is constitutional or not

In matters of public interests, the court can turn up to the fundamental duties to help determine whether a particular decision may hamper the general interest of the public or will work in their favor. If any law works to uplift any one of the fundamental rights, it can be declared as a valid law and granted approval.

1. Imposing penalty on violation

Fundamental duties need to be followed by every single citizen. Failure to realize the importance of fundamental duties and an effort to violate them may result in strict action from the judiciary.

1. Maintaining the sovereignty

When people aim to fulfill a certain set of duties, they get a sense of brotherhood and unity. This helps in establishing a harmonious relationship between the constitution and its people. 

Conclusion

Suppose an Indian citizen expects the constitution to safeguard their rights and entitle them to certain rights that ensure a high standard of living. In that case, it is their moral duty to fulfill certain duties towards the country. These duties are listed in the Indian constitution. Although these are not enforceable by law, citizens should understand that duties and rights go hand in hand. One must understand the importance of fundamental duties and fulfill them to the best of their potential.