The Indian Constitution is not just a legal document; it is the soul of the world’s largest democracy. Whether you are preparing for UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, CHSL, or any other competitive exam, understanding the key Articles of the Constitution is non-negotiable.
In this guide, we bring you a handpicked list of the most frequently asked Articles, along with their real-world relevance, crafted with the Experience of toppers, Expertise in syllabus coverage, and Authoritative insights rooted in the Constitution of India.
Why You Must Know Constitutional Articles?
Whether it's Article 21 (Right to Life) being invoked in a landmark Supreme Court judgment, or Article 324 directing the Election Commission — questions from these Articles are regular fixtures in prelims and mains alike.
What makes them high scoring is their predictability. Questions may change form, but these Articles are evergreen.
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Categorized Table of Must-Know Articles
To help you retain better, we’ve divided the important Articles into four logical sections:
1. Fundamental Framework & Rights
| Article No. | Title | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Article 1 | Name & Territory of the Union | Defines India’s political identity |
| Articles 12–35 | Fundamental Rights | Core of democratic values |
| Article 14 | Right to Equality | Equal protection under law |
| Article 15 | No Discrimination | Social inclusiveness |
| Article 16 | Equality in Government Jobs | Fair employment opportunity |
| Article 17 | Abolition of Untouchability | A historic step toward social justice |
| Article 19 | Freedom of Expression | Backbone of democratic dissent |
| Article 21 | Right to Life | Includes right to privacy, clean air, and dignity |
| Article 21A | Right to Education | Added via 86th Amendment (2002) |
| Article 32 | Right to Constitutional Remedies | Described as the “heart and soul” by Dr. Ambedkar |
2. Governance, Duties & Directive Principles
| Article No. | Title | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Article 40 | Village Panchayats | Foundation of local self-governance |
| Article 44 | Uniform Civil Code | Frequently debated, especially in UPSC mains |
| Article 50 | Separation of Judiciary | Ensures checks and balances |
| Article 51A | Fundamental Duties | Added by 42nd Amendment; key for ethics paper |
| Article 72 | President’s Pardoning Power | Mercy petitions, clemency |
| Article 74 | Role of Council of Ministers | Clarifies executive power |
| Article 76 | Attorney General of India | Legal guardian of public interest |
3. Budget, Judiciary & State Structure
| Article No. | Title | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Article 110 | Money Bill | Key in understanding Budget process |
| Article 112 | Annual Financial Statement | Foundation of Union Budget |
| Article 123 | Ordinance Power of President | Frequently misused or debated |
| Article 124 | Supreme Court | Establishes the apex judiciary |
| Article 148 | Comptroller and Auditor General | Guardian of public finance |
| Articles 153–167 | Governor and State Executive | Executive head at state level |
| Articles 168–212 | State Legislature | Powers, privileges, and lawmaking at state level |
4. Elections, Emergency & Amendments
| Article No. | Title | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|---|
| Article 280 | Finance Commission | Fiscal devolution and Centre-State relations |
| Article 324 | Election Commission | Ensures free and fair elections |
| Article 356 | President’s Rule | Invoked in state emergencies |
| Article 360 | Financial Emergency | Never used yet, but key for understanding federalism |
| Article 368 | Constitutional Amendments | Explains how the Constitution can evolve |
| Article 370 | Special Status to J&K (Abrogated) | Landmark event in Indian polity (2019) |
✍️ Expert Note:
"Many aspirants memorize Articles but fail to understand their interlinkages with current affairs. The real mastery is in knowing where they apply."
— Dr. Reema Singh (Polity Mentor, 9+ Years UPSC Coaching)
✅ How to Maximize Retention?
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Use flashcards with the article number on one side and the meaning on the other.
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Link them with real events (e.g., Article 21 and environmental cases).
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Revise via PYQs (SSC asks direct Qs, UPSC frames application-based ones).
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Create mind maps to connect Fundamental Rights, Duties, and DPSPs.
Final Thoughts
The Constitution is not just to be read — it’s to be understood. These Articles are not only exam-relevant but also help you become a more aware and responsible citizen. From equality to accountability, the Indian Constitution weaves a story every aspirant must learn to tell — clearly, confidently, and convincingly.
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