Sources and Features of the Indian Constitution: Complete Theory Notes for UPSC, SSC, WBCS, PSC, Railway and Competitive Exams
Key Facts Box
- Lengthiest Written Constitution in the World
- Adopted: 26 November 1949
- Enforced: 26 January 1950
- Major Source: Government of India Act, 1935
- Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility
Major Sources of the Indian Constitution
| Country | Borrowed Features |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Parliamentary Government, Rule of Law, Cabinet System, Single Citizenship |
| United States of America | Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review, Independent Judiciary, Impeachment of President |
| Canada | Federal System with Strong Centre, Advisory Jurisdiction of Supreme Court |
| Ireland | Directive Principles of State Policy, Nomination to Rajya Sabha |
| Australia | Concurrent List, Freedom of Trade and Commerce |
| Germany | Emergency Provisions |
| South Africa | Procedure of Constitutional Amendment |
| Russia (USSR) | Fundamental Duties |
| Japan | Procedure Established by Law |
| Government of India Act, 1935 | Federal Scheme, Governor's Office, Public Service Commission, Emergency Provisions |
Salient Features of the Indian Constitution
1. Lengthiest Written Constitution
The Indian Constitution is the world's longest written constitution containing detailed provisions covering administration, governance, rights, and duties.
2. Parliamentary Form of Government
India follows the British model where the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.
3. Federal System with Unitary Bias
India is federal in structure but unitary in spirit during emergencies and special situations.
4. Fundamental Rights
Citizens enjoy constitutionally guaranteed rights enforceable through courts.
5. Directive Principles of State Policy
These principles guide the government in policy-making and welfare administration.
6. Independent Judiciary
The judiciary protects constitutional supremacy and citizens' rights.
7. Secular State
India respects all religions equally without establishing any state religion.
8. Single Citizenship
Unlike some federations, India provides only one citizenship.
9. Universal Adult Franchise
Every citizen aged 18 years or above has the right to vote.
10. Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility
Some constitutional provisions can be amended easily while others require special procedures.
Exam Focus Box
- Fundamental Rights → USA
- DPSP → Ireland
- Fundamental Duties → USSR
- Concurrent List → Australia
- Emergency Provisions → Germany
- Single Citizenship → UK
- Most Borrowed Provisions → Government of India Act, 1935
Quick Revision Notes
USA → Fundamental Rights
Ireland → DPSP
Australia → Concurrent List
Germany → Emergency Provisions
USSR → Fundamental Duties
South Africa → Amendment Procedure
Japan → Procedure Established by Law
Most Important Points Summary
- Indian Constitution is borrowed from many constitutions across the world.
- Government of India Act, 1935 is the most important source.
- India follows a Parliamentary Democracy.
- The Constitution combines federal and unitary features.
- Fundamental Rights and DPSPs are key pillars of governance.
FAQ Section
Q1. Which country inspired Fundamental Rights?
United States of America.
Q2. From where were Directive Principles borrowed?
Ireland.
Q3. Which is the biggest source of the Indian Constitution?
Government of India Act, 1935.
Q4. From which country were Fundamental Duties borrowed?
USSR (Russia).
Conclusion
The Sources and Features of the Indian Constitution provide a comprehensive understanding of how India adopted the best constitutional practices from across the world while maintaining its unique democratic framework. This chapter is highly important for UPSC, SSC, WBCS, PSC, Railway, Banking, CTET, and all major competitive examinations.
