GK Question

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During Constituent Assembly debates, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar described the Preamble as the ______ of the Constitution, setting out its fundamental values and aspirations while cautioning that implementation requires institutional mechanisms.

  1. index
  2. preface
  3. epilogue
  4. appendix

Answer: preface

Ambedkar on Preamble: (a) Constituent Assembly (November 1948): Ambedkar stated Preamble is 'preface' to Constitution: (i) Sets out fundamental values (justice, liberty, equality, fraternity), (ii) Declares source of authority (people of India), (iii) Specifies political system (sovereign democratic republic), (iv) Guides interpretation of operative provisions, (b) Implementation caution: Ambedkar emphasized Preamble not substitute for detailed provisions; realization requires: (i) Institutional mechanisms (independent judiciary, accountable executive, representative legislature), (ii) Legislative action (rights-based laws, welfare schemes), (iii) Citizen engagement (awareness, participation, accountability), (c) Balanced view: Aspirational vision grounded in practical governance; values inspire but institutions operationalize, (d) Contemporary relevance: (i) Preamble values guide interpretation of new challenges (digital rights, climate justice), (ii) Institutional innovation needed to realize values in contemporary context, (e) Illustrates constitutional wisdom: Preamble as compass, not map; values guide but institutions, laws, practice operationalize. Essential for UPSC Mains understanding of constitutional design philosophy.

Topic Preamble - Constituent Assembly Debates and Intent
Exam Relevance Constituent Assembly history critical for UPSC Mains and advanced SSC exams
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