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Simply the responsibility of doing or of not doing some work is known as duty. Duty is that positive or negative work that a man has to do, he may be willing for that or not. The fundamental duties are those duties which are essential for every citizen for his/her own progress, for the progress of the society and for the well-being of the nation.

The importance of the fundamental duties is given below:

1. Fundamental Duties are non-controversial in nature: Politicians of different views agree on the utility and importance of Fundamental Duties. They are in the best interest of the country and awaken patriotism among the citizens.

2. The Fundamental Duties are the ideals and the guidelines for the individual: These rights are ideal in nature and lead the citizen in the right direction. The environment of selfishness is rampant in the country. There is no balance between the interests of the society and individual. This tendency is eroding the society. Fundamental duties would serve as an ideal behaviour to all of them.

3. The Fundamental Duties will create consciousness among the people: The fulfilment of the fundamental duties are voluntary and not compulsory. They will slowly awaken the conscience of the people to do their duties. The late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi said in the Parliament - 'If people start keeping the Fundamental Duties in their minds, we would soon witness a peaceful and friendly revolution.'

Criticism of the Fundamental Duties:

1. The Fundamental Duties are vague: Even if citizens intend to obey these duties, it is not possible for them to do the same because they do not know what to do or how to do, for instance, how to maintain the sovereignty, integrity or glorious heritage of the country, or have scientific temper, etc. Actually, these duties are expressed in vague language, and cannot provide any guidance to citizens. Citizens look for definite statement of duties to be followed by them and not those impractical duties.

2. The Fundamental Duties are beyond the jurisdiction of the court: As these duties are beyond the jurisdiction of the court, the awakening of citizens on these duties is not possible. Even if there is any idea to place these duties under the jurisdiction of the court, then these duties have to be given a legal shape. The form of these duties as stated in the Constitution is such that it is difficult to ascertain whether they are obeyed or violated by a citizen. It is difficult to determine whether a citizen has or has not maintained the sovereignty of the country as mentioned in fundamental duties.