Civic Duties and Responsibilities

Civic Duties and Responsibilities

Rights, Duties and Social Responsibilities of Citizens

As participants in the system of governance, citizens have certain rights. It is necessary to ensure that these rights are received in a definite and proper manner. Actions contrary to these rights must be prevented, and responsible exercise of civic rights must be ensured. Citizens also have certain duties and responsibilities towards society and the nation. These are known as civic duties. Voluntarily fulfilling these duties is the responsibility of every good citizen.

Article 51A of the Constitution of India (1976)
  • Respect and uphold the Constitution and the fundamental values of the nation.
  • Preserve and promote the ideals and values of the national freedom struggle.
  • Protect public property and refrain from damaging it.
  • Protect historical and cultural heritage.
  • Protect natural resources, wildlife and ecological balance.
  • Uphold the dignity and status of women and oppose activities that undermine women.
  • Work against superstitions and harmful social practices and promote scientific temper.
  • Protect the unity and integrity of the nation and promote communal harmony.
Panchayat Raj Act (1994, 1999)

The Panchayat Raj Act of 1994 defines the duties and responsibilities of citizens residing within the Grama Panchayat area. Every citizen is expected to perform the following responsibilities:

Participate in Gram Sabha meetings and take direct part in the local self-government process.
Pay taxes accurately and regularly and contribute to ensuring the Panchayat's own-source revenue.
Support the Panchayat in development activities.
Participate in planning, implementation and evaluation activities.
Avoid public nuisance and indiscriminate dumping of waste and remain vigilant.
Cooperate with the Panchayat in activities related to sanitation, disease prevention, nutrition and literacy.
Support the successful implementation of the social audit process.
Engage in activities that promote social unity and participatory development.
Remain vigilant against corruption and maladministration.
Protect natural resources and public facilities.
Promote thrift and participate in self-reliance activities.
Work against social evils such as alcoholism, drug abuse, violence against women and child labour.
Participate in environmental protection activities.
Cooperate in the collection of statistical data.
Assist people affected by natural disasters.
Develop habits of cooperation and savings.
Do not encroach upon public land and cooperate by making land available for development purposes.
Form neighbourhood groups and self-help groups.
Avoid anti-social activities such as spitting, drinking alcohol and smoking in public places.
Do not slaughter animals openly in public places.
Ensure that pets receive the necessary vaccinations and licenses.
Follow laws and regulations and avoid violations.
Promote gender equality and social justice.
Responsible Citizen

A good citizen behaves responsibly towards society and the nation, follows the laws, participates in development activities, and works towards social harmony and environmental protection.