PREAMBLE
OF THE CONSTITUTION OF INDIA

The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Constitution.
It sets out the ideals and objectives of our nation.

Home Constitution of India Preamble
TEXT OF THE PREAMBLE
WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a
SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC
and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual
and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do
HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES
THIS CONSTITUTION.
NOTE
The Preamble is not a source of power but a key to interpret the provisions of the Constitution. It embodies the basic structure and guiding principles of our Constitution.
Meaning and Significance

The Preamble serves as the preface to the Constitution of India. It embodies the fundamental values and the constitutional philosophy upon which our republic is built. It points out the source from which the document derives its authority—the people of India.

Key Features
  • Source of Authority: Declares that the Constitution derives its authority directly from the people of India.
  • Nature of Indian State: Establishes India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic state.
  • Core Objectives: Aims to secure Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity for all citizens.
  • Date of Adoption: Explicitly states November 26, 1949 as the date of adoption and enactment.
Salient Ideals

The ideals enshrined in the Preamble guide the governance of the country and statutory interpretations by courts:

  • Sovereign: India is completely independent and free from external control.
  • Socialist: Aims at democratic socialism to eliminate poverty and inequality.
  • Secular: Equal respect and protection for all religions by the State.
  • Democratic: Government formed through free and fair democratic elections.
  • Republic: The head of state (President) is elected, not a hereditary monarch.
Historical Background

The Preamble is based on the 'Objectives Resolution', drafted and moved by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946, and unanimously adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.

Amendments

The Preamble has been amended only once so far, by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. This amendment added three new words: 'Socialist', 'Secular', and 'Integrity' to the Preamble.

Judicial Interpretation

In the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), the Supreme Court held that the Preamble is an integral part of the Constitution and forms part of its 'Basic Structure'. While it can be amended under Article 368, its basic elements cannot be destroyed.