Question

Article 48-A and Article 51-A (g) were inserted in the Constitution by

• A. The Constitution (42nd Amendment) Act, 1978
• B. The Constitution (42nd Amendment) Act, 1976
• C. The Constitution (43rd Amendment) Act, 1978
• D. The Constitution (44th Amendment) Act, 1978

Hint:

The 42nd Amendment (1976) is one of the most significant amendments. It's essential to remember the key articles it inserted or amended, such as adding the words 'Socialist' and 'Secular' to the Preamble, and inserting Fundamental Duties (Art 51-A) and environmental directives (Art 48-A).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question is about a specific constitutional amendment that introduced key provisions related to environmental protection into the Constitution of India.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Both the articles mentioned are cornerstones of environmental jurisprudence in India.
- Article 48-A was added to the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV). It states: "The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wild life of the country."
- Article 51-A was added as a new part, Part IV-A, laying down the Fundamental Duties of citizens. Clause (g) of this article states that it shall be the duty of every citizen of India "to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life, and to have compassion for living creatures."
Both these provisions were inserted into the Constitution by the Constitution (42nd Amendment) Act, 1976, during the period of the Emergency. This amendment made numerous changes and is often referred to as the 'Mini-Constitution'.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is The Constitution (42nd Amendment) Act, 1976.