Important Articles of Indian Constitution

The Important Articles of Indian Constitution: India, as the world’s largest democracy, adopted its constitution on January 26, 1950, following nearly 200 years of colonial rule, numerous freedom struggles, the Indian national movement, sectarian conflicts, and a rich historical heritage.

This constitution delineates the roles and responsibilities of the judiciary, legislature, and executive branches of government. It includes significant articles that outline fundamental rights, political principles, procedures, and responsibilities. This constitutional framework has played an important role in ensuring unity in diversity in the country.

The important articles of the Indian Constitution are integral to the Indian Polity section of competitive exam syllabi, notably included in the UPSC syllabus.

Making of the Indian Constitution

The making of the Indian constitution was a planned process. It involved several keystones and notable figures. The submission of a revised draft constitution to the Constitution Assembly was an important moment in the journey. The date of submission was November 4, 1947.

Dr B R Ambedkar chaired the drafting committee. He played a vital role in shaping the Indian Constitution. The committee included seven more members who were:

• B.R. Rajam
• K.M. Munshi
• N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar
• Alladi Krishnaswamy Ayyar
• D.P. Khaitan
• Mahavir Tyagi
• B.L. Mitter

All these members prepared an inclusive Constitution for the new independent nation. Its philosophy resides in:

• Principles of Justice
• Equality
• Liberty
• Fraternity

It aimed to establish a democratic, secular, and socialist republic. The same would safeguard the rights and freedoms of all its citizens. The Constitution drew inspiration from various sources. It included the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and the constitutional experiences of other nations as well. The Important Articles of Indian Constitution also included the wisdom of India’s historical heritage.

The Constituent Assembly was formed on December 9, 1946. It engaged in intensive discussions and debates for around three years. The Assembly adopted the final version of the Indian Constitution on January 26, 1950. The day is now celebrated as Republic Day. The occasion marks the commencement of India as a Republic nation.

Total Articles in Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution is one of the most extensive legal documents in the world. It acts as the cornerstone of the nation’s governance. Currently, the total articles in the Indian Constitution are 448. These articles form the backbone of India’s constitutional framework. They also define the structure of the government. It helps outline the powers and responsibilities of various institutions. The articles further help safeguard the rights and freedom of citizens.

The country adopted the Constitution of India on November 26, 1949. It included the Preamble and 395 articles. There are 25 total parts of Indian Constitution, the early version consisted of 22 parts and 8 schedules. Each section addressed different sides of governance and administration. The Important Articles of Indian Constitution ensured justice, democracy, and fundamental rights for all.

List of the Parts of the Indian Constitution

Part	Subject Matter	Articles
Part I	The Union and its territory	Articles 1 to 4
Part II	Citizenship	Articles 5 to 11
Part III	Fundamental Rights	Articles 12 to 35
Part IV	Directive Principles of State Policy	Articles 36 to 51
Part IVA	Fundamental Duties	Article 51A
Part V	The Union	Articles 52 to 151
Part VI	The States	Articles 152 to 237
Part VIII	The Union Territories	Articles 239 to 242
Part IX	The Panchayats	Articles 243 to 243O
Part IXA	The Municipalities	Articles 243P to 243ZG
Part IXB	Co-operative Societies	Articles 243H to 243ZT
Part X	The Scheduled and Tribal Areas	Articles 244 to 244A
Part XI	Relations between the Union and the States	Articles 245 to 263
Part XII	Finance, Property, Contracts, and Suits	Articles 264 to 300A
Part XIII	Temporary, Transitional, and Special Provisions	Articles 301 to 307
Part XIV	Services under the Union and the States	Articles 308 to 323
Part XIVA	Tribunals	Articles 323A and 323B
Part XV	Elections	Articles 324 to 329A
Part XVI	Special provisions relating to certain classes	Articles 330 to 342
Part XVII	Official Language	Articles 343 to 351
Part XVIII	Emergency Provisions	Articles 352 to 360
Part XIX	Miscellaneous	Articles 361 to 367
Part XX	Amendment to the Constitution	Article 368
Part XXI	Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions	Articles 369 to 392
Part XXII	Short title, commencement, authoritative text in Hindi, and repeals	Articles 393 to 395

List of Important Articles in Indian Constitution

Part 1: Articles 1 – 4

• Article 1: Specifies the name and territory of the Union.
• Article 2: Deals with the admission and establishment of new states.
• Article 3: Covers the creation of new states and changes in the borders, territories, and names of existing states.
• Article 4: Provides for laws under Articles 2 and 3, including amendments to the First Schedule and related matters.

Part 2: Articles 5 – 11

• Article 5: Defines citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution.
• Article 6: Details citizenship rights of persons who migrated to India from Pakistan.
• Article 10: Ensures continuity of citizenship rights.
• Article 11: Empowers Parliament to enact laws regarding citizenship rights.

Part 3: Articles 12 – 35

• Article 12: Defines what constitutes the State.
• Article 13: Invalidates laws that contravene fundamental rights.

Right to Equality: Articles 14 – 18

• Article 14: Guarantees equality before the law.
• Article 15: Prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
• Article 16: Ensures equal opportunity in public employment.
• Article 17: Abolishes untouchability.
• Article 18: Abolishes titles and distinctions.

Right to Freedom: Articles 19 – 22

• Article 19: Ensures six freedoms to Indian citizens, including speech, assembly, movement, and profession.
• Article 20: Protects against conviction for offenses.
• Article 21: Guarantees protection of life and personal liberty.
• Article 22: Provides safeguards against arrest and detention.

Right against Exploitation: Articles 23 – 24

• Article 23: Prohibits human trafficking and forced labor.
• Article 24: Prohibits employment of children under 14 years in factories and mines.

Right to Freedom of Religion: Articles 25 – 28

• Article 25: Grants freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion.
• Article 26: Ensures freedom to manage religious affairs.
• Article 27: Prohibits taxation for promoting a particular religion.
• Article 28: Provides freedom from attending religious instruction.

Cultural and Educational Rights: Articles 29 – 30

• Article 29: Protects the interests of minorities.
• Article 30: Grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions.

Right to Constitutional Remedies: Article 32

• Article 32: Provides remedies for the enforcement of fundamental rights.

Part 4: Articles 36 – 51

• Article 36: Defines the State.
• Article 37: Provides for the application of Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
• Article 39A: Ensures equal justice and free legal aid.
• Article 40: Deals with the organization of village panchayats.
• Article 41: Guarantees right to work, education, and public assistance in certain cases.
• Article 43: Ensures living wages for workers.
• Article 43A: Provides for worker participation in the management of industries.
• Article 44: Advocates for a uniform civil code (applicable in Goa only).
• Article 45: Ensures free and compulsory education for children.
• Article 46: Promotes the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
• Article 47: Places duties on the State to raise nutrition levels, living standards, and public health.
• Article 48: Deals with the organization of agriculture and animal husbandry.
• Article 49: Protects monuments and objects of national importance.
• Article 50: Advocates for separation of judiciary from executive.
• Article 51: Promotes international peace and security.

Part 5: Articles 52 – 151

• Articles detailing the President, Vice President, Parliament, Supreme Court, State Governors, High Courts, etc.

Part 6: Articles 152 – 237

• Articles concerning Governors of States, Executive Powers of Governors, Pardoning powers, Advocate-General of the State, High Courts, and their roles and functions.

Part 9: Articles 243 – 243O

• Article 243A: Deals with the Gram Sabha.
• Article 243B: Deals with the constitution of Panchayats.

Part 12: Articles 264 – 300A

• Article 266: Administration of the Consolidated Fund and Public Accounts Fund
• Article 267: Establishment and Management of the Contingency Fund of India
• Article 280: Constitution and Functions of the Finance Commission
• Article 300-A: Constitutional Provision on the Right to Property

Part 13: Articles 301-307

• Article 301: Freedom of Trade, Commerce, and Intercourse
• Article 302: Authority of Parliament to Regulate Trade, Commerce, and Intercourse

Part 14: Articles 308-323

• Article 312: Establishment of All-India Services
• Article 315: Formation of Public Service Commissions for the Union and States
• Article 320: Role and Responsibilities of Public Service Commissions

Part 14A: Tribunals (Articles 323 A – 323 B)

• Article 323A: Creation and Functioning of Administrative Tribunals

Part 15: Elections (Articles 324 – 329)

• Article 324: Electoral Oversight Entrusted to the Election Commission
• Article 325: Non-Discrimination in Electoral Rolls Based on Religion, Race, Caste, or Sex
• Article 326: Universal Adult Suffrage in Elections to Parliament and State Legislatures

Must Know Important Articles of Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution, meticulously crafted by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and his committee, stands as the supreme law of the land. It enshrines fundamental rights, outlines the government’s framework, and establishes principles for a just and equitable society. Understanding key articles empowers you to be an informed and active citizen.

Fundamental Rights (Part III)

These articles form the bedrock of individual liberties in India.

Article	Brief Description	Significance
14	Right to Equality	Guarantees equal treatment under the law for all citizens.
19	Protection of Certain Rights Regarding Freedom	Enshrines fundamental freedoms of speech, assembly, movement, association, and profession.
21	Right to Life and Personal Liberty	Protects an individual’s right to life and liberty.
32	Remedies for Enforcement of Fundamental Rights	Empowers citizens to seek legal recourse if their fundamental rights are violated.

Structure of Governance

These articles define the framework for India’s government.

Article	Brief Description	Significance
40	Organization of Village Panchayats	Lays the foundation for self-governance at the village level.
50	Separation of the Judiciary from the Executive	Ensures an independent judiciary, crucial for a fair legal system.
72	Power of the President to Grant Pardons	Grants the President the authority to pardon or reduce sentences.
74	Council of Ministers to Aid and Advise the President	Establishes the Council of Ministers to advise and assist the President.
84	Qualification for Membership of the Parliament	Defines eligibility criteria for becoming a member of Parliament.
124	Establishment and Constitution of the Supreme Court	Establishes the Supreme Court of India as the highest court.
155	Appointment of Governor	Defines the process for appointing the Governor of a state.
356	President’s Rule in States	Empowers the President to impose President’s rule in a state facing a crisis.
368	Power of Parliament to Amend the Constitution	Outlines the process for amending the Constitution.

Progressive Principles

These articles reflect India’s commitment to progress and social justice.

Article	Brief Description	Significance
44 (Not Yet Implemented)	Uniform Civil Code	Asks the state to strive for a uniform set of personal laws, promoting equality.
48A	Protection and Improvement of the Environment	Imposes a duty on the state to protect the environment.
51A	Fundamental Duties of Citizens	Defines the duties of Indian citizens, fostering a sense of responsibility.
377	Decriminalization of Homosexuality	Recognizes the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting inclusivity.

Schedules of the Indian Constitution

Schedule	Contents
First Schedule	Contains the names of States and Union Territories. – Specifies the territorial jurisdiction of each state.
Second Schedule	Provides details about the allowances, privileges, and emoluments of various officials, including the President, Governors, Speakers, and Judges.
Third Schedule	Contains the forms of oath and affirmation for Union Ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), Supreme Court Judges, and others.
Fourth Schedule	Deals with the allocation of seats for states and union territories in the Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
Fifth Schedule	Pertains to the administration and control of scheduled areas and scheduled tribes.
Sixth Schedule	Covers the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
Seventh Schedule	Divides legislative powers between the Union and the States through three lists: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.
Eighth Schedule	Recognizes 22 official languages of India, including Assamese, Bengali, Hindi, Kannada, Tamil, and Urdu.
Ninth Schedule	Protects certain laws from judicial scrutiny on the grounds of violating fundamental rights. – Primarily related to land reforms and zamindari abolition.
Tenth Schedule	Known as the Anti-Defection Law, it deals with disqualification of MPs and MLAs who switch parties.
Eleventh Schedule	Contains provisions related to Panchayats (local self-government institutions).
Twelfth Schedule	Pertains to Municipalities (urban local bodies).

Easiest Way to Remember Important Articles of the Indian Constitution

Some tips to help remember the important articles of the Indian Constitution:

1. Mnemonic for the Fundamental Parts:
   • Use the phrase “Lazy Elephants Jump Slowly And Sit Regularly” to remember key aspects:
     • L = Legislative
     • E = Executive
     • J = Judicial
     • S = States
     • A = Amendment process
     • S = Supremacy of the Constitution
     • R = Ratification.
2. Emergency Provisions:
   • Add 4 to subsequent articles related to Emergency Provisions:
     • Article 352 + 4 = Article 356 (State Emergency)
     • Article 356 + 4 = Article 360 (Financial Emergency).
3. Centre and State Articles:
   • Add 90 to relevant articles:
     • Article 112 + 90 = Article 202
     • Article 113 + 90 = Article 203
     • Article 114 + 90 = Article 204
     • Article 115 + 90 = Article 205
     • Article 116 + 90 = Article 206, and so on.
4. Unit-Digit Pattern:
   • Note articles using unit-digit and tens-digit places:
     • Article 52
     • Article 63
     • Article 74.

Remember to practice and repeat these techniques to master the Constitution’s articles.

Important Articles of Indian Constitution for Competitive Exams

UPSC Aspirants

Understanding the Important Articles of Indian Constitution UPSC intricacies is crucial for UPSC aspirants aiming to crack the Civil Services Exam. The Constitution outlines fundamental rights, directive principles, fundamental duties, and the powers and limitations of various institutions.

Importance of the UPSC Exam

The Indian Constitution is a recurring theme across various UPSC papers, including General Studies I, II, III, and IV. A thorough understanding of the imp articles of indian constitution UPSC is essential for the:

• Answering questions on the constitutional framework of India.
• Analyzing the relationship between the legislature, executive, and judiciary.
• Evaluating government policies in light of fundamental rights and directive principles.
• Formulating well-informed opinions on social issues and contemporary challenges.

Previous Years’ UPSC Questions on the Indian Constitution

• Discuss the significance of the writ petition mechanism (Article 32) in upholding the fundamental rights of citizens.
• Critically examine the balance of power between the Union and the States as envisaged by the Indian Constitution.
• How can the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) be effectively implemented to achieve socio-economic justice in India?

Tips for UPSC aspirants

• Prepare crisp and clear notes on each important article, highlighting its significance and landmark cases related to it.
• Practice applying your knowledge by analyzing current events and government initiatives through the lens of the Constitution.
• Develop the ability to critically evaluate the effectiveness of implementing various constitutional provisions.

By mastering these crucial articles, you’ll gain a strong foundation for tackling UPSC questions related to the Important Articles of Indian Constitution and emerge as a well-informed candidate.

SSC Aspirants

The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) conducts exams for various government positions in India. A good understanding of the Important Articles of Indian Constitution for SSC is crucial for these exams, especially since it forms the foundation of the country’s legal and administrative framework.

Previous Years’ SSC Questions on the Indian Constitution

• Which of the following fundamental rights can be suspended during an emergency? (Right to Property)
• What is the minimum age to become a member of the Lok Sabha? (25 years)
• What is the directive principle that asks the state to secure a uniform civil code for all citizens throughout the territory of India? (Article 44)

Tips for SSC Exam Preparation:

• Focus on understanding the core principles enshrined in the Constitution.
• Memorize important articles and their numbers.
• Practice previous years’ questions to understand the exam format.
• Refer to NCERT textbooks or standard guides for in-depth explanations.

Conclusion

The making of the Indian Constitution is a historical moment for India. It led to the formation of various All Important Articles of Indian Constitution that currently safeguard the law and order system in the country. Be it Article 1 of the Indian Constitution which talks about India as a Union of States or Article 4 which addresses various aspects of legislation, these constitutional provisions remain fundamental in shaping the governance framework of India.

Also Read:-

• Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar – Father of Indian Constitution
• Salt Satyagraha
• Learn about Act, 73 Amendment of the Indian Constitution
• धर्मनिरपेक्षता: Secularism in Hindi

Along with the “Important Articles of Indian Constitution“. Read the related articles by visiting the above links.

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