Let’s read the meaning and salient features of Indian Constitution notes.

What is constitution 

A constitution is a document with special legal authority that outlines the framework and main functions of a state’s government organs and declares the principles governing their operation. The Indian Constitution is a written one, combining rigidity and flexibility: some provisions can be amended like ordinary laws with a simple majority in Parliament, while others require a special majority.

Salient features of the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution is unique and has several distinctive features that set it apart from other constitutions around the world :

1. The lengthiest constitution in the world
2. The Parliamentary form of Government
3. Mixed blend of rigidity and flexibility
4. Fundamental Rights
5. Directive Principles of State Policy
6. Unitary Character
7. Adult Suffrage
8. Independent Judiciary
9. Secular State
10. Single Citizenship
11. Fundamental Duties

1. The lengthiest constitution in the world – The Indian Constitution is the longest and most detailed written constitution globally. At the time of its commencement, the Constitution had 395 articles divided into 22 parts and 8 schedules. Now, it has 444 articles in 26 parts and 12 schedules following various amendments.
2. Parliamentary form of Government – India has a parliamentary system of government both at the central and state levels. The President is the constitutional head of state, while real executive power lies with the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister. The Council is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, whose members are directly elected by the people for a five-year term.
   
3. Blend of rigidity and flexibility – While some provisions of the Indian Constitution can be amended by ordinary legislative process, others require a special method. This blend ensures stability and adaptability.
4. Fundamental Rights – Part III of the Constitution enshrines fundamental rights, which are essential in a democratic state. These rights protect individuals against state actions and are inviolable, although not absolute.
5. Directive Principles of State Policy.– Part IV outlines the Directive Principles of State Policy, aiming to guide the governance of the country toward a welfare state. These principles, while not enforceable by law, set the direction for state policies.
6. A Unitary Character in Emergency – During emergencies, the Constitution assumes a unitary character, allowing the Union Parliament to legislate on state subjects and alter financial arrangements between the center and states.
7. Adult Suffrage (Article 326) – Every Indian citizen over 18 years of age has the right to vote, making the Indian suffrage system one of the widest globally.
8. An Independent Judiciary – An independent judiciary with the power of judicial review protects citizens’ rights and maintains the balance of power between the center and states.
9. A Secular State – India is a secular state . It treats all religions equally, ensuring freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate any religion (Articles 25-28).
10. Single Citizenship – Despite being a federal state, India provides single citizenship to all its citizens, ensuring uniform rights across the country.
11. Fundamental Duties – The 42nd Amendment introduced a code of ten fundamental duties for citizens, emphasizing democratic conduct and behavior.

Conclusion 

The Indian Constitution is regarded as one of the best in the world, serving as the supreme law of the land. It provides for fundamental rights and duties and includes the Directive Principles of State Policy to guide the country towards a welfare state. The Constitution ensures that all government organs operate within its framework, safeguarding the rights and freedoms of its citizens.

I hope you found this overview of the salient features of the Indian Constitution helpful!

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