The Fundamental Duties were incorporated by forty-second amendment of the Constitution which was passed in 1976. 

These duties require the citizens:

1. To abide by the constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem.

2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom.

3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India.

4. To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so. 

5. To promote harmony and spirit of common brotherhood among all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities: to renounce, practices derogatory to the dignity of women. 

6. To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.

7. To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.

8. To develop scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform.

9. To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.

10. To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to a higher level of endeavor and achievement.

All of these duties are most important as they are essential for every citizen for his own progress, for the progress of the society and for the well being of the nation.