The 42nd Amendment of the Indian Constitution (1976) states that India is a/an __________________ nation.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. secular.
The 42nd Amendment of the Indian Constitution, enacted in 1976, states that India is a "Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic." This amendment added the words "Socialist" and "Secular" to the preamble, emphasizing the commitment to social justice, equality, and religious neutrality. The term "Socialist" indicates a focus on reducing inequality through state intervention in economic matters, while "Secular" reflects the state's impartiality toward all religions. The amendment reinforced India's democratic framework, ensuring that the government is elected by the people and accountable to them.