Introduction

1. The concepts of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and Person of Indian Origin (PIO) were introduced to strengthen ties with the Indian diaspora.
2. These provisions aim to provide a sense of belonging and facilitate economic and cultural connections with India.
3. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003, introduced OCI, while PIO was introduced earlier under a separate scheme.

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)

1. OCI was introduced through the Citi

Introduction

1. The Citizenship Act, 1955 provides the legal framework for acquiring, determining, and terminating Indian citizenship.
2. Enacted under the provisions of Article 11 of the Indian Constitution, which empowers Parliament to regulate citizenship by law.
3. It establishes rules for acquisition, termination, and deprivation of citizenship.

Provisions for Acquisition of Citizenship

1. Indian citizenship can be acquired by the following methods:

Introduction

1. The bifurcation of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) in 2019 was a significant development in India's political landscape.
2. On August 5, 2019, the Government of India abrogated Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu & Kashmir.
3. The state was reorganized into two Union Territories (UTs): Jammu & Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without a legislature).

Key Provisions of Article 370

1. Article 370

Introduction

1. The States Reorganization Act, 1956, is a landmark legislation in Indian history that reorganized the states of India based on linguistic lines.
2. It came into effect on November 1, 1956, marking a significant step toward addressing regional and linguistic aspirations.
3. The Act was based on the recommendations of the States Reorganization Commission (SRC).

Background

1. After independence, India inherited a mix of British provinces and pri

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution outlines the structure of the Union and its territory in Articles 1–4.
2. These articles define the territorial composition of India, the admission of new states, and the reorganization of states and territories.
3. They ensure the unity and integrity of the Indian nation while allowing flexibility for territorial adjustments.

Article 1: Name and Territory of the Union

1. Declares India as a Union of States.

Introduction

1. The Basic Structure Doctrine is a judicial principle that prevents amendments that can alter the fundamental essence of the Indian Constitution.
2. It ensures the Constitution’s supremacy and safeguards its core principles from arbitrary changes.
3. This doctrine was established by the Supreme Court of India in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case (1973).

Origin of the Doctrine

1. First hinted at in the Sajjan Singh case (1965), where some judges ex

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution has undergone several amendments to adapt to changing political, social, and economic conditions.
2. Landmark amendments such as the 42nd, 44th, 73rd, 74th, and 101st Amendments have significantly impacted India's governance.
3. These amendments address areas like the basic structure, democracy at the grassroots, and economic reforms.

42nd Amendment Act, 1976

1. Known as the "Mini-Constitution" due to its extensive changes.
2. Added the terms "Socialist," "Secular

Introduction

1. Article 368 of the Indian Constitution provides the procedure for amending the Constitution.
2. Amendments are necessary to address evolving needs and ensure the Constitution remains relevant and effective.
3. The process of amendment maintains the balance between rigidity and flexibility.
4. The Indian Constitution is unique in providing three types of amendments, ensuring adaptability while safeguarding core principles.

Types of Amendments

1.

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution is based on the principles of secularism, socialism, and democracy.
2. These features are derived from the Preamble and are fundamental to the Indian state and governance.
3. They reflect the aspirations of a diverse and inclusive society.

Secularism in the Indian Constitution

1. India is a secular state, meaning there is no official state religion.
2. Article 25-28 guarantee freedom of religion, includin

Introduction

1. The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are enshrined in Part IV of the Indian Constitution (Articles 36–51).
2. DPSPs are guidelines for the government to establish a just and equitable society.
3. They are inspired by the Irish Constitution, which drew from the idea of a welfare state.
4. While not justiciable, they are fundamental in the governance of the country.

Key Features of DPSPs

1. DPSPs act as a directive for the state to make laws and policie