Fundamental duties are the moral and civic obligations prescribed for citizens to promote patriotism, uphold the unity and integrity of the nation, and contribute to its welfare. In the Indian context, these duties are enshrined in Article 51A of the Constitution under Part IV-A, introduced by the 42nd Amendment Act in 1976. They serve as a reminder that alongside enjoying rights, citizens have responsibilities toward their country

. The 11 Fundamental Duties of Indian citizens are:

• To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals, institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
• To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired the national struggle for freedom.
• To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
• To defend the country and render national service when called upon.
• To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood among all people, transcending religious, linguistic, and regional diversities, and to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
• To value and preserve the rich heritage of the country’s composite culture.
• To protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.
• To develop scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
• To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.
• To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity to raise the nation’s level of achievement.
• To provide opportunities for education to their child or ward between the ages of six and fourteen years (added by the 86th Amendment in 2002)

These duties promote civic consciousness, social harmony, environmental protection, and respect for national symbols and ideals. They complement fundamental rights by balancing citizens' entitlements with their responsibilities. Although non-justiciable (not legally enforceable by courts), they guide legislative and judicial interpretation and foster responsible citizenship