The Preamble to the Indian Constitution declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. Which of these terms were added to the Preamble by the 42nd constitutional Amendment Act, 1976?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
Answer: Socialist, Secular
Explanation: The terms “Socialist” and “Secular” were added to the Preamble of the Indian Constitution by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976. This amendment expanded the ideological character of India by explicitly stating its commitment to socialism and secularism.
Originally, the Preamble included only: Sovereign, Democratic, Republic.
Additional Key Points:
The amendment is also called the “Mini Constitution” amendment due to extensive changes.
It was enacted during the Emergency period (1975–1977).
It also added the words “Integrity” to the Preamble (forming “Unity and Integrity of the Nation”).
The Preamble now reads: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic.
Potential Exam-Oriented Questions & Answers:
Question: When were the words “Socialist” and “Secular” added to the Preamble?
Answer: 1976
Question: Which concept was also strengthened by the 42nd Amendment in the Preamble?
Answer: Unity and Integrity of the Nation