Correct option is B
The correct answer is (b) Article 368.
Explanation:
- The 42nd Amendment to the Constitution of India, which was passed in 1976, is known for making significant changes to the Constitution, including the insertion of the words 'Secular', 'Socialist', and 'Integrity' in the Preamble. This amendment altered the preamble to reflect the values of a democratic and inclusive nation.
- The process of amending the Constitution is outlined in Article 368 of the Indian Constitution. This article gives the Parliament the power to amend the Constitution, provided that certain procedures are followed.
- The 42nd Amendment, which was a major constitutional amendment, was passed through this provision. Secular refers to the idea that India does not have a state religion, and all religions are treated equally by the government. Socialist reflects the idea of promoting social and economic equality. Integrity stresses the importance of maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation.
Information Booster:
- Article 368 of the Constitution of India specifically deals with the process for amending the Constitution. It provides the procedures that Parliament must follow to make changes to the Constitution, whether they are minor or substantial.
- The 42nd Amendment is often referred to as a "mini-Constitution" because of the vast changes it brought to the Indian Constitution, including altering the structure of the Preamble, extending the powers of the central government, and affecting the functioning of the judiciary and legislature.
- The words 'Secular' and 'Socialist' were added to the Preamble to reflect the government's commitment to these principles in the context of India's diverse society and economy.