2 minConstitutional Provision
Constitutional Provision

Constitution of India

What is Constitution of India?

The Constitution of India is the supreme law of India. It lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishing the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and setting out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.

Historical Background

The Constituent Assembly, formed in 1946, drafted the Constitution. It came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking India's transition to a republic. The Constitution has been amended over 100 times to adapt to changing societal needs.

Key Points

10 points
  • 1.

    Establishes India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic

  • 2.

    Guarantees Fundamental Rights (Part III) to all citizens, including equality, freedom of speech, and religion.

  • 3.

    Enshrines Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) as guidelines for the state to promote social and economic justice.

  • 4.

    Defines the structure of the Parliament (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and the Executive (President and Prime Minister).

  • 5.

    Establishes an independent Judiciary with the Supreme Court as the apex court.

  • 6.

    Provides for a federal system with division of powers between the Union and the States.

  • 7.

    Outlines the process of amendment (Article 368) to adapt to changing circumstances.

  • 8.

    Contains provisions for Emergency Powers (Part XVIII) to deal with national crises.

  • 9.

    Recognizes Official Languages (Part XVII) and provides for their promotion.

  • 10.

    Ensures Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) for enforcement of fundamental rights.

Recent Developments

4 developments

Recent amendments include those related to Goods and Services Tax (GST) and reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS).

Ongoing debates on issues such as federalism, judicial review, and the balance between fundamental rights and directive principles.

Increased focus on constitutional morality and its role in interpreting the Constitution.

Discussions on the need for further reforms to strengthen democratic institutions and promote social justice.

This Concept in News

10 topics

PM Orders Probe into NCERT Textbook Controversy over Judiciary

27 Feb 2026

The NCERT textbook controversy highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain public trust in institutions like the judiciary. The news demonstrates how even educational materials can become a battleground for competing narratives about the state and its organs. This event applies the concept of constitutional values in practice, revealing how these values are constantly negotiated and interpreted in the context of contemporary issues. The news reveals that perceptions of corruption and inefficiency within the judiciary, whether accurate or not, can have significant implications for public confidence in the rule of law. The implications of this news for the Constitution's future are that it underscores the need for careful consideration of how constitutional values are taught and interpreted in educational settings. Understanding the Constitution is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides the framework for understanding the roles and responsibilities of the different branches of government and the rights and duties of citizens. Without this understanding, it is impossible to assess the legitimacy of the government's response to the controversy or to evaluate the potential impact on the judiciary's independence.

Addressing Judicial Corruption: A Critical Need for System Integrity

27 Feb 2026

The news highlights the critical importance of upholding the integrity of the judiciary, which is a fundamental pillar of the Constitution. Judicial corruption directly challenges the constitutional principles of the rule of law, equality before the law, and the right to a fair trial. It demonstrates how even a well-designed constitutional framework can be undermined if its institutions are not functioning properly. The news reveals the need for constant vigilance and reform to ensure that the judiciary remains independent, impartial, and accountable. The implications of judicial corruption are far-reaching, as it erodes public trust in the government and undermines the legitimacy of the legal system. Understanding the constitutional principles related to the judiciary is crucial for analyzing the news and formulating effective solutions to address the problem of judicial corruption. Without a strong and independent judiciary, the Constitution's guarantees of rights and freedoms become meaningless.

Supreme Court Bans NCERT Textbook Section on Judiciary Corruption

27 Feb 2026

The news about the NCERT textbook controversy highlights the importance of upholding the dignity and integrity of constitutional institutions, particularly the judiciary. It demonstrates how the judiciary actively safeguards its reputation and the principles of the Constitution, even when faced with criticism or potential misinformation. This event applies the concept of judicial review in practice, as the Supreme Court intervened to ensure that educational materials do not undermine public trust in the judiciary. The news reveals the ongoing tension between freedom of expression and the need to protect the integrity of constitutional institutions. The implications of this news are that educational content must be carefully vetted to ensure accuracy and respect for constitutional values. Understanding the Constitution's provisions regarding the judiciary and fundamental rights is crucial for analyzing this news and answering related questions, as it provides the framework for understanding the legal and ethical considerations involved.

Bengaluru Police Mandates Body-Worn Cameras for Passport Verification

26 Feb 2026

The Bengaluru police initiative demonstrates how constitutional principles are applied in everyday governance. The use of body cameras aims to ensure that police actions are transparent and accountable, preventing abuse of power and protecting citizens' rights. This news highlights the ongoing effort to translate constitutional ideals into practical realities. It also reveals the challenges in ensuring that government officials uphold the Constitution's values in their interactions with citizens. The implications of this news are that technology can be used to promote good governance and protect constitutional rights. Understanding the Constitution is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for evaluating whether the police action is consistent with the principles of fairness, equality, and due process.

NCERT Apologizes for 'Corruption' Content in Class 8 Textbook

26 Feb 2026

This news highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain the integrity of constitutional institutions. The NCERT textbook's inclusion of content about corruption in the judiciary, while potentially aiming to promote transparency and accountability, was seen by the Supreme Court as a potential threat to the judiciary's reputation and public trust. This raises questions about the limits of academic freedom and the responsibility of educational institutions to present a balanced and accurate portrayal of constitutional bodies. The Supreme Court's actions demonstrate its power to protect the Constitution and its own authority, but also raise concerns about potential censorship and the suppression of critical perspectives. Understanding the constitutional principles of freedom of expression, judicial independence, and the separation of powers is crucial for analyzing this news and its implications for Indian democracy. It also underscores the importance of constitutional literacy and the need for citizens to be informed about their rights and responsibilities.

CJI objects to NCERT book section on judicial corruption

26 Feb 2026

The NCERT textbook controversy directly relates to the Constitution's provisions on freedom of speech and expression (Article 19) and the independence of the judiciary. The inclusion of a chapter on 'corruption in the judiciary' in a Class 8 textbook raises questions about the limits of free speech, particularly when it comes to criticizing institutions. While transparency and accountability are essential for a healthy democracy, the manner and context in which such issues are presented to young children can have significant implications for their perception of the judiciary. This news event challenges the practical application of constitutional principles, forcing us to consider how to balance the right to information with the need to protect the integrity of vital institutions. Understanding the Constitution's framework for judicial independence and the limitations on free speech is crucial for analyzing this news and forming informed opinions about the appropriate balance between these competing values. The incident underscores the ongoing tension between the public's right to know and the need to maintain public trust in the judiciary.

DGCA grounds aircraft after Ajit Pawar's death, cites safety concerns

25 Feb 2026

The news about the DGCA grounding aircraft after the Ajit Pawar plane crash demonstrates how the Constitution's principles are applied in practice. (1) This news highlights the state's duty to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, a key aspect of Article 21. (2) The DGCA's action challenges the notion that regulations are merely theoretical; it shows that they are actively enforced to prevent harm. (3) This news reveals the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring compliance with safety standards and preventing accidents. (4) The implications of this news for the Constitution's future are that it reinforces the importance of strong regulatory bodies and effective enforcement mechanisms. (5) Understanding the Constitution's emphasis on fundamental rights and the state's duty to protect them is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to appreciate the significance of the DGCA's action and its implications for aviation safety.

BJP's struggle in Telangana: Challenges in quest for southern expansion

24 Feb 2026

The news about the BJP's challenges in Telangana demonstrates the practical application of federalism, a core principle enshrined in the Constitution. It highlights how the Constitution's division of powers allows for regional parties to maintain influence and resist the dominance of national parties. This news also underscores the importance of understanding the Constitution's provisions related to elections, representation, and the role of state governments. The BJP's struggle reveals that national-level strategies may not always translate into success at the state level, emphasizing the need for parties to adapt to local contexts and address specific regional concerns. Understanding the constitutional framework is crucial for analyzing the political dynamics in Telangana and other states, as it provides a lens through which to interpret the actions and strategies of different political actors. It also helps in assessing the implications of these developments for the future of Indian politics and governance.

Parliamentary Groups Formed to Strengthen Legislative Ties Worldwide

24 Feb 2026

The news about Parliamentary Friendship Groups highlights the Constitution's role in shaping India's foreign policy and promoting parliamentary diplomacy. It demonstrates how the principles enshrined in the Constitution, such as promoting international peace and cooperation, are translated into concrete actions. This initiative applies the concept of parliamentary sovereignty by involving lawmakers directly in foreign engagement, complementing traditional diplomacy. The news reveals a growing emphasis on people-to-people connections and institution-to-institution collaboration as a means of strengthening bilateral relations. The implications of this news are that India is adopting a more participatory and inclusive approach to foreign policy, leveraging its democratic credentials to build trust and foster mutual understanding. Understanding the Constitution's provisions on foreign policy and the role of Parliament is crucial for analyzing and answering questions about India's international relations and its engagement with the global community. It is important to note that these groups, while beneficial, must also adhere to constitutional principles of equality and non-discrimination in their interactions.

SKM urges President Murmu to dismiss Goyal over U.S. trade deal

23 Feb 2026

This news highlights the practical application and ongoing relevance of the Constitution in everyday governance and policy-making. (1) It demonstrates how various actors, including farmers' organizations, invoke constitutional principles to advocate for their interests and hold the government accountable. (2) The news event challenges the concept of executive power, as the SKM questions the government's decision-making process in trade negotiations and appeals to the President for intervention. (3) It reveals the tension between economic development and social justice, as the trade deal could potentially benefit the economy as a whole but harm specific groups like farmers. (4) The implications of this news for the Constitution's future include the need for greater transparency and consultation in trade negotiations to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are considered. (5) Understanding the Constitution is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the powers and responsibilities of different branches of government, the rights of citizens, and the principles of governance that should guide policy-making.

Source Topic

Supreme Court Bans NCERT Textbook Section on Judiciary Corruption

Polity & Governance

UPSC Relevance

Fundamental for UPSC Prelims and Mains (GS Paper II - Polity and Governance). Understanding the Constitution is crucial for answering questions on Indian polity, governance, social justice, and international relations. Questions are frequently asked about its features, amendments, and interpretations.

This Concept in News

5 news topics

5

PM Orders Probe into NCERT Textbook Controversy over Judiciary

27 February 2026

The NCERT textbook controversy highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain public trust in institutions like the judiciary. The news demonstrates how even educational materials can become a battleground for competing narratives about the state and its organs. This event applies the concept of constitutional values in practice, revealing how these values are constantly negotiated and interpreted in the context of contemporary issues. The news reveals that perceptions of corruption and inefficiency within the judiciary, whether accurate or not, can have significant implications for public confidence in the rule of law. The implications of this news for the Constitution's future are that it underscores the need for careful consideration of how constitutional values are taught and interpreted in educational settings. Understanding the Constitution is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides the framework for understanding the roles and responsibilities of the different branches of government and the rights and duties of citizens. Without this understanding, it is impossible to assess the legitimacy of the government's response to the controversy or to evaluate the potential impact on the judiciary's independence.

Addressing Judicial Corruption: A Critical Need for System Integrity

27 February 2026

The news highlights the critical importance of upholding the integrity of the judiciary, which is a fundamental pillar of the Constitution. Judicial corruption directly challenges the constitutional principles of the rule of law, equality before the law, and the right to a fair trial. It demonstrates how even a well-designed constitutional framework can be undermined if its institutions are not functioning properly. The news reveals the need for constant vigilance and reform to ensure that the judiciary remains independent, impartial, and accountable. The implications of judicial corruption are far-reaching, as it erodes public trust in the government and undermines the legitimacy of the legal system. Understanding the constitutional principles related to the judiciary is crucial for analyzing the news and formulating effective solutions to address the problem of judicial corruption. Without a strong and independent judiciary, the Constitution's guarantees of rights and freedoms become meaningless.

Supreme Court Bans NCERT Textbook Section on Judiciary Corruption

27 February 2026

The news about the NCERT textbook controversy highlights the importance of upholding the dignity and integrity of constitutional institutions, particularly the judiciary. It demonstrates how the judiciary actively safeguards its reputation and the principles of the Constitution, even when faced with criticism or potential misinformation. This event applies the concept of judicial review in practice, as the Supreme Court intervened to ensure that educational materials do not undermine public trust in the judiciary. The news reveals the ongoing tension between freedom of expression and the need to protect the integrity of constitutional institutions. The implications of this news are that educational content must be carefully vetted to ensure accuracy and respect for constitutional values. Understanding the Constitution's provisions regarding the judiciary and fundamental rights is crucial for analyzing this news and answering related questions, as it provides the framework for understanding the legal and ethical considerations involved.

Bengaluru Police Mandates Body-Worn Cameras for Passport Verification

26 February 2026

The Bengaluru police initiative demonstrates how constitutional principles are applied in everyday governance. The use of body cameras aims to ensure that police actions are transparent and accountable, preventing abuse of power and protecting citizens' rights. This news highlights the ongoing effort to translate constitutional ideals into practical realities. It also reveals the challenges in ensuring that government officials uphold the Constitution's values in their interactions with citizens. The implications of this news are that technology can be used to promote good governance and protect constitutional rights. Understanding the Constitution is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for evaluating whether the police action is consistent with the principles of fairness, equality, and due process.

NCERT Apologizes for 'Corruption' Content in Class 8 Textbook

26 February 2026

This news highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain the integrity of constitutional institutions. The NCERT textbook's inclusion of content about corruption in the judiciary, while potentially aiming to promote transparency and accountability, was seen by the Supreme Court as a potential threat to the judiciary's reputation and public trust. This raises questions about the limits of academic freedom and the responsibility of educational institutions to present a balanced and accurate portrayal of constitutional bodies. The Supreme Court's actions demonstrate its power to protect the Constitution and its own authority, but also raise concerns about potential censorship and the suppression of critical perspectives. Understanding the constitutional principles of freedom of expression, judicial independence, and the separation of powers is crucial for analyzing this news and its implications for Indian democracy. It also underscores the importance of constitutional literacy and the need for citizens to be informed about their rights and responsibilities.