Eleanor Finch
The first page of the Indian Constitution, known as the Preamble, declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic. The Preamble, which was designed by painter Beohar Rammanohar Sinha, gives a brief introduction to the objectives, core values, and philosophy of the Indian state. The Indian Constitution is the world's most frequently amended national governing document and is the supreme legal document of India.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Source of authority | The people of India |
| Nature of Indian State | Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republican Polity |
| Objectives | Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity |
| Date of adoption | November 26, 1949 |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- The first page of the Indian Constitution is known as the Preamble
- The Preamble outlines the objectives, philosophy, and core values of the Constitution
- The Indian Constitution is the largest written constitution of any sovereign country
- The Indian Constitution is derived from the people of India
- The Indian Constitution was drafted by B.R. Ambedkar (who debated the inclusion of God and Gandhi)
The first page of the Indian Constitution is known as the Preamble
The term "Sovereign" means that India has its own independent and powerful authority. "Socialist" indicates that India has a mixed economy with various social aspects. "Secular" means that the state is neutral in matters of religion, treating all religions and their practitioners equally.
The Preamble also emphasises the importance of justice, including political, economic, and social justice. Political justice ensures equal rights for all citizens to participate in political opportunities. Economic justice aims to eliminate discrimination against those who are economically disadvantaged, while social justice strives for a society free from discrimination based on caste, colour, religion, or creed, fostering unity and integrity within the nation.
The Indian Constitution, drafted by B.R. Ambedkar, came into force on 26th January 1950, which is celebrated annually as Republic Day. It is the largest and second-longest written constitution of any sovereign country, consisting of 395 articles, 22 parts, and 12 schedules (originally 8 schedules). The original constitution is hand-written, with each page decorated by artists, and its calligrapher was Prem Behari Narain Raizada. The first page of the constitution, the Preamble, is declared by the "People of India", representing the collective will of the Indian citizens.
Tennessee's First Constitution: When Did It Originate?
You may want to see also
The Preamble outlines the objectives, philosophy, and core values of the Constitution
The first page of the Indian Constitution is known as the Preamble. The Preamble outlines the objectives, philosophy, and core values of the Constitution. It is an introductory statement that provides an overview of the entire Constitution, highlighting its fundamental principles and goals. With 73 words, it is more than just an introduction; it is the soul of the Constitution, encapsulating the ideals and aspirations of the Indian people.
The Preamble declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic. Sovereign means that India has its own independent authority, free from the control of any other state or external power. Socialism, in this context, refers to achieving socialist ends through democratic means and a mixed economy with both private and public sectors. Secularism indicates that the state is neutral in matters of religion, treating all faiths equally. Finally, a republic is a form of government where the head of state is elected by the people, as in the case of the President of India.
The Preamble also specifies Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity as its guiding principles. These values are interconnected and essential for a just and harmonious society. Justice refers to both social and economic justice, ensuring equal opportunities and rights for all citizens. Liberty includes freedom of belief, faith, and worship, as well as freedom of thought, expression, and action within the boundaries of law and public morality. Equality encompasses political and economic equality, ensuring that all citizens have equal rights and opportunities regardless of their background. Fraternity promotes unity and integrity within the nation, fostering brotherhood and solidarity among the diverse people of India.
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is more than just a statement of principles; it serves as a moral compass for policymakers and lawmakers. It reminds them of their responsibility to uphold the rights, duties, and aspirations of the people they represent. The Preamble is also a source of inspiration for citizens, outlining their fundamental rights and duties within the nation. It symbolises the unity and diversity of India, acknowledging the plurality of its citizens and their rich cultural and religious heritage.
Understanding Half First Cousins: What Defines This Unique Relationship?
You may want to see also
The Indian Constitution is the largest written constitution of any sovereign country
The English language version of the Indian Constitution is around 145,000 words long, which is over one-third the length of the US state of Alabama's constitution. It has a preface, 448 articles divided into 25 sections, 12 schedules, and five appendices. The number of articles has increased from 395 due to the amendments, and the constitution has been amended 101 times as of 2017, with the most recent changes on July 1, 2017. The American Constitution, in contrast, has been amended just 27 times.
The original text of the Constitution was handwritten, with each page decorated by artists from Shantiniketan including Beohar Rammanohar Sinha and Nandalal Bose. Its calligrapher was Prem Behari Narain Raizada. Two copies of the Indian Constitution were made, one in English and one in Hindi, and they are currently kept in helium-filled cases in the library of the Parliament House.
The first page of the Indian Constitution is known as the Preamble, which gives a brief introduction to its objectives, core values, and philosophy. It declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular state and a Democratic republic.
The Constitution: Forerunner to Modern Government?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Indian Constitution is derived from the people of India
The Indian Constitution is the supreme legal document of India and is the lengthiest written constitution of any sovereign country in the world. It is a unique document, drafted by the Constituent Assembly of India, which took into account the historical perspective, geographical diversity, and cultural and traditional characteristics of the nation. The first page of the Indian Constitution, known as the Preamble, declares India to be a "Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic". This declaration is made by the "People of India", a collective term representing the citizens of the nation.
The Indian Constitution is designed to act as a "watchdog", protecting the fundamental rights of its citizens and ensuring that legislative and executive acts do not overstep constitutional bounds. It provides a framework for political systems and institutions, outlining their duties and powers. The judiciary, as an independent body, plays a crucial role in upholding the constitution, interpreting and applying its principles, and safeguarding citizens' rights.
The Indian Constitution is also notable for its flexibility. It is worded in generalities rather than vague terms, allowing for adaptability and interpretation to suit changing circumstances. This flexibility ensures that the constitution can endure and remain relevant as society evolves.
The people of India are considered the "trustees and custodians" of the values enshrined in the constitution. This recognition underscores the importance of citizen engagement and vigilance in upholding the principles and ideals outlined in the document. The constitution is not merely a legal document but a way of life, guiding the nation's social, political, and economic fabric.
Constitution Delegates: Their First Steps and Challenges
You may want to see also
The Indian Constitution was drafted by B.R. Ambedkar (who debated the inclusion of God and Gandhi)
The Indian Constitution was drafted by B.R. Ambedkar, a popular leader of the Dalits (people of scheduled castes), who are around 16% of India's population. Ambedkar is often referred to as the "father" of the Indian Constitution and is the most well-known of all Constituent Assembly members. He was the Chairman of the Assembly's most crucial committee, the Drafting Committee, and a member of other important committees.
Ambedkar's interventions and advocacy centred on the protection and furtherance of Dalit rights. He often clashed with the Indian National Congress and Mahatma Gandhi, who felt that Ambedkar's desire for separate electorates for the 'backward classes' would splinter the Hindu community. Despite this, it was Gandhi who suggested that Nehru invite Ambedkar to join the council of ministers, recognising his scholarship in legal and constitutional matters.
Ambedkar introduced the Draft Constitution on 4 November 1948 and defended the inclusion of administrative provisions, invoking 'constitutional morality'. He argued that India should strive to be a social democracy, not just a political one, recognising liberty, equality, and fraternity as principles of life.
The first page of the Indian Constitution, known as the Preamble, gives a brief introduction to its objectives, core values, and philosophy. It declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular state and a democratic republic. The "People of India" are declared on the first page, illustrating the citizens of the country.
First Use Nuclear Missiles: Who Makes the Call?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The first page of the Indian Constitution is known as the Preamble.
The Preamble gives a brief introduction to the objectives, core values, and philosophy of the Indian Constitution. It also includes the Nature of the Indian state.
The Preamble includes the terms "Sovereign", "Socialist", "Secular", "Democratic", "Republic", "Fraternity", "Liberty", and "Equality".
"Sovereign" refers to India's independent and supreme authority. "Socialist" indicates a mixed economy. "Secular" refers to the absence of a state religion. "Democratic" and "Republic" refer to the form of government. "Fraternity" means brotherhood and unity among citizens. "Liberty" refers to freedom of thought and expression for citizens. "Equality" means no privilege for any section of society and equal opportunities for all.
The preamble page was designed and decorated by renowned painter Beohar Rammanohar Sinha of Jabalpur, with calligraphy done by Prem Behari Narain Raizada.
