Ideals Of Our Constitution: 8th SST

Question: Define-Socialism, secularism, federalism and liberty.

Answer: 

1. Socialism: Socialism means that everyone must enjoy social and economic equality. Under Social equality, everyone must have equal status and opportunities.
2. Secularism: The Preamble states that India is a secular country. This means that there will be no state religion. All religions will be treated equally.
3. Federalism: India has a federal from of government. This means that our country is governed at two levels, i.e. at the center and at the state.
4. Liberty: Liberty indicates absence of any subjective restraints on individual freedom for her/his holistic development.

Question: Write a short note on Right to Freedom.

Answer: The Constitution of India contains the right to freedom, given in articles 19, 20, 21, 21A and with the view of guaranteeing individual rights that were considered vital by the framers of the constitution. It is a cluster of four main laws. The right to freedom in Article 19 guarantees the following six freedoms:

1. Freedom of speech and expression on which the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality or in relation to contempt of court, defamation or incitement to an offence.
2. Freedom to assemble peacefully without arms on which the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order and the sovereignty and integrity of India.
3. The Freedom to form associations or unions or co-operative societies on which the State can impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, morality and the sovereignty and integrity of India.
4. Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India though reasonable restrictions can be imposed on this right in the interest of the general public, for example, restrictions may be imposed on movement and travelling, so as to control epidemics.
5. Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India, subject to reasonable restrictions by the State in the interest of the general public or for the protection of the scheduled tribes because certain safeguards as are envisaged here seem to be justified to protect indigenous and tribal peoples from exploitation and coercion. Article 370 restricts citizens from other Indian states and Kashmiri women who marry men from other states from purchasing land or property in Jammu & Kashmir.
6. Freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any occupation, trade or business on which the State may impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of the general public. Thus, there is no right to carry on a business which is dangerous or immoral. Also, professional or technical qualifications may be prescribed for practicing any profession or carrying on any trade.

Question: Why are Fundamental Duties important? List any four fundamental Duties.

Answer: The Fundamental Duties are an important part of Indian Constitution. The duties prescribed, embody some of the highest ideals preached by our great saints, philosophers, social reformers and political leaders. No Duties of the Citizen were incorporated in the original constitution of India at the time of its commencement in 1950. These duties were inserted subsequently by amending the constitution in 1976 (42nd Amendment Act.) to regulate the behavior of the citizens and to bring about excellence in all the spheres of the citizens.

Duties are as follows:

1. We should show respect to our national symbols like the national Anthem and the National Flag.
2. We should protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of our country.
3. We must take care of public property.
4. We must value and preserve our rich cultural heritage.