Why in News? 

• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized that the Preamble is the soul of the Constitution and rarely changed worldwide. He highlighted India's unique case of amending its Preamble, underlining its foundational importance. 

Preamble  

• The Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution, summarizing its core values and goals. 
• Described as the ‘Identity Card’ of the Constitution (N.A. Palkhivala) and its ‘Political Horoscope’ (K.M. Munshi). 

Historical Background 

• Objective Resolution moved by Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946. 
• Formed the basis of the Preamble, adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947. 

Components of the Preamble 

• Declares India:  Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. 
• Source of Authority: People of India. 
• Nature of State: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. 
• Objectives: Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity. 
• Adoption Date: November 26, 1949. 

Preamble of India 

Importance of 42^nd Amendment to the Preamble 

• The Preamble was amended only once through the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976. 
• This amendment was done following the suggestions of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee. 
• It added three significant words to the Preamble, Socialist, Secular and Integrity.