Explanation: The Fundamental Duties were introduced into the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment in 1976. This amendment was a significant step in the evolution of the Indian Constitution, as it added a new section to the Constitution that outlined the moral and ethical responsibilities of citizens towards the nation.
The Swaran Singh Committee, named after the then Minister of External Affairs, was appointed to recommend the inclusion of Fundamental Duties in the Constitution. The committee's recommendations were based on the idea that while the Constitution guarantees certain rights to citizens, it is also important to emphasize the duties that citizens owe to the state and society. The committee's report led to the incorporation of Article 51A, which lists ten Fundamental Duties.
These duties are not legally enforceable like Fundamental Rights, but they serve as a moral guide for citizens. They include duties such as abiding by the Constitution and respecting its ideals, protecting the environment, safeguarding public property, and promoting harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood.
It is important to distinguish the Swaran Singh Committee from other committees mentioned in the options. The Mandal Commission, for instance, was established in 1979 to investigate the conditions of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and recommend measures for their upliftment. The Narasimha Rao Committee was set up to examine issues related to reservation in promotions. The Singhvi Committee is not a recognized committee in the context of the creation of Fundamental Duties.
Understanding the role of the Swaran Singh Committee and the significance of the 42nd Amendment is crucial for comprehending the evolution of the Indian Constitution and the principles that guide the relationship between citizens and the state. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services and State PSC Exams, where questions on constitutional amendments and the structure of the Indian Constitution are common.