The Indian Constitution came into existence on 26th November 1949. It is the longest written constitution in the world. It is not just a legal document but a result of years of effort, discussion, and vision. 

The Constituent Assembly that made the Constitution took help from many sources. These included the Government of India Act 1935 and Constitutions of other countries.

What is Constitution?

A constitution is a set of rules and principles that guides how a country is governed. It shows how power will be used and how people will be protected. It is the backbone of democracy in India.

What Are the Sources of the Indian Constitution?

Let’s explain the various sources of the Indian Constitution in a simple way. The Constitution makers picked the best ideas from different countries and adjusted them to suit India.

From the Government of India Act, 1935

This Act was a major source for many features of our Constitution. These are:

  • Federal system
  • Office of the Governor
  • Judiciary system
  • Public Service Commissions
  • Emergency provisions
  • Administrative details

This Act is a major source of the Indian Constitution.

Borrowed Features from Other Countries

Here are the main sources of the Indian Constitution from various countries:

Sl. No. Country Features Taken
1. Australia Concurrent list, Freedom of trade and commerce, Joint sitting of Parliament
2. Canada Strong Centre, Residuary powers with Centre, Governor appointed by Centre, Supreme Court advisory powers
3. Ireland Directive Principles of State Policy, Rajya Sabha nominations, President’s election method
4. Japan Procedure established by law
5. Soviet Union (Russia) Fundamental duties, Justice (social, economic, political) ideals in Preamble
6. United Kingdom (UK) Parliamentary government, Rule of law, Single citizenship, Bicameralism, Prerogative writs
7. United States (US) Fundamental rights, Judicial review, Impeachment of President, Vice-President post
8. Germany (Weimar Constitution) Suspension of Fundamental Rights during emergency
9. South Africa Constitutional amendment process, Election of Rajya Sabha members
10. France Republic idea, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity in Preamble

These show what are the sources of the Indian Constitution in simple points.

Is Indian Constitution Just a Borrowed Document?

No, it is not correct to say that our Constitution is just a bag of borrowings. Even though ideas came from other countries, they were modified to fit India’s history, culture, and diversity.

Here’s why:

  • The features were not copied, but adapted.
  • Indian Constitution is very detailed. It had 395 Articles at the beginning, much more than other countries.
  • It reflects India’s own struggles and experiences.
  • It considers social and geographical diversity of the country.

That is why the Indian Constitution is unique in the world.

Sources of the Indian Constitution | A Simple Guide for Students and Aspirants


Sources of the Indian Constitution PDF

If you are preparing for exams like IAS, UPSC, or Class 11 Political Science, you can look for “Sources of the Indian Constitution PDF” online. It will help you with quick revisions.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are the various sources of Indian Constitution Class 11?
The sources include Government of India Act 1935 and other countries like UK, USA, Ireland, Canada, Australia, etc.

Q2. What is Constitution? What are the main sources of Indian Constitution?
A Constitution is a guiding legal document. The main sources are the Government of India Act 1935, and features borrowed from other countries.

Q3. Which provision is borrowed from the Irish Constitution?
Directive Principles of State Policy.

Q4. What are the three sources of Indian Constitution?

  • Government of India Act 1935
  • Constitutions of other countries
  • Indian traditions and freedom struggle experiences

Q5. From where were ideals of justice in the Preamble taken?
From the Soviet Union (now Russia).

Q6. Mention a source of the Indian Constitution.
The UK is a major source, especially for parliamentary government.

Conclusion

So, now you know what are the different sources of the Indian Constitution. Understanding these sources helps us know how India shaped its governance with the help of global experiences. If you are preparing for UPSC, IAS, or any government exam, this topic is very important.

📥 Don’t forget to download the sources of the Indian Constitution PDF for your notes.

Let us remember – India’s Constitution is not just borrowed, it is built with wisdom.