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UPSC CSE Prelims 2015 · GS paper

"To uphold and protect the Sovereignty, Unity and Integrity of India" is a provision made in the

A question from UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2015, General Studies, explained with its sources.

Prelims 2015 · archive

Easy

"To uphold and protect the Sovereignty, Unity and Integrity of India" is a provision made in the

Answer & explanation

Answer: (d) Fundamental Duties

These words are clause (c) of Article 51A, which lists the Fundamental Duties of every citizen in Part IVA of the Constitution. The provision is a duty placed on citizens. It is not part of the Preamble, the Directive Principles or the Fundamental Rights.

  • ✓ (d) Under Article 51A(c), it is the duty of every citizen of India to uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India. Article 51A was inserted by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
  • ✗ (a) The Preamble states the ideals and aims of the Constitution. It does not list duties of citizens.
  • ✗ (b) Directive Principles in Part IV are guidelines for the State. This wording is addressed to citizens and sits in Part IVA.
  • ✗ (c) Fundamental Rights in Part III are guarantees given to people. This provision places a duty on citizens, so it is not a right.

Remember · Article 51A lists the Fundamental Duties. It is in Part IVA and was added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976. Upholding and protecting India's sovereignty, unity and integrity is clause (c).

📘 Read it in NCERT: Class 11 Indian Constitution at Work · Class 11 Indian Constitution at Work

Sources

Question: UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) 2015, General Studies paper. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 25 Oct 2026 (how we verify). ·

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