The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Indian Constitution, which reflects its philosophy, values, and objectives. It was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into force on 26th January 1950.
Text of the Preamble
“WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a*
SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do hereby ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.”*
Key Features of the Preamble
The Preamble declares India’s fundamental identity and objectives through the following terms:
1. Nature of India
- Sovereign – India is independent and not controlled by any external power.
- Socialist – The government aims for economic and social equality.
- Secular – The state treats all religions equally and does not promote any one religion.
- Democratic – The government is elected by the people and functions according to their will.
- Republic – The head of state (President) is elected and not hereditary.
2. Objectives of the Constitution
- Justice – Social, economic, and political justice for all citizens.
- Liberty – Freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship.
- Equality – Equal rights and opportunities for all, without discrimination.
- Fraternity – Promoting a sense of brotherhood, unity, and national integrity.
Significance of the Preamble
- Acts as the soul of the Constitution.
- Provides guiding principles for governance and law-making.
- Highlights the vision of the Constitution makers.
- Emphasizes democratic and secular values.
Amendment to the Preamble
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) added three words to the Preamble:
- “Socialist”, “Secular”, and “Integrity”.
Here are some Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) on the Preamble of the Indian Constitution:
1. What is the significance of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
A) It is legally enforceable
B) It provides the philosophy of the Constitution
C) It defines fundamental duties
D) It establishes the structure of government
Answer: B) It provides the philosophy of the Constitution
2. Which of the following words were added to the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976?
A) Sovereign, Socialist, Secular
B) Socialist, Secular, Integrity
C) Justice, Liberty, Fraternity
D) Republic, Socialist, Justice
Answer: B) Socialist, Secular, Integrity
3. The Preamble declares India as a “Sovereign” state. What does “Sovereign” mean?
A) India is free to take its own decisions without external control
B) India is ruled by a king
C) India has a state religion
D) India is under the control of the United Nations
Answer: A) India is free to take its own decisions without external control
4. How many times has the Preamble of the Indian Constitution been amended?
A) 1 time
B) 2 times
C) 3 times
D) Never amended
Answer: A) 1 time (by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976)
5. The term “Republic” in the Preamble means:
A) The head of the state is hereditary
B) The head of the state is elected
C) India follows a dictatorship
D) The President has supreme power
Answer: B) The head of the state is elected
6. What is the first word of the Preamble?
A) Constitution
B) India
C) We
D) People
Answer: C) We
7. Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the Preamble?
A) Fundamental Rights
B) Justice
C) Liberty
D) Equality
Answer: A) Fundamental Rights
8. The Preamble ensures which type of Justice?
A) Social
B) Economic
C) Political
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
9. The phrase “Unity and Integrity of the Nation” was added to the Preamble by:
A) 1st Amendment Act
B) 42nd Amendment Act
C) 44th Amendment Act
D) 73rd Amendment Act
Answer: B) 42nd Amendment Act
10. Who is known as the “Father of the Indian Constitution” and played a key role in drafting the Preamble?
A) Jawaharlal Nehru
B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C) Mahatma Gandhi
D) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Answer: B) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
The Preamble is not legally enforceable, but it plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and guiding the courts in judgments related to fundamental rights and government policies.