What is written in Article 1 of the Indian Constitution?

Key Points

• Article 1 of the Indian Constitution states that "India, that is Bharat, shall be a Union of States."
• This article defines the name and type of polity of the country.
• The term "Union of States" indicates that the Indian federation is not the result of an agreement by the states and no state has the right to secede from it.
• Article 1 also mentions the territories that comprise India, including states, union territories, and any territories that may be acquired.

Additional Information

• The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950.
• It lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens.
• The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any country in the world.
• It declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, assuring its citizens justice, equality, and liberty, and endeavors to promote fraternity.
• The Constitution provides a federal structure with a strong unitary bias, which is reflected in the term "Union of States."
• Amendments to the Constitution can be made through a process outlined in Article 368.
• The Indian federation is unique in that it allows for the possibility of new states being formed and territories being altered through constitutional amendments.