Eminent Indian Jurist NA Palkhivala said the Preamble of the Indian Constitution is its “identity card.” It reflects ideals, morals, values, and virtues embedded in the Constitution, which the Nation thrives to achieve.

Like every other Constitution, the Indian Constitution has its philosophy carefully outlined in its Preamble.

I. The Preamble primarily fulfils a twin objective:

1. It indicates the source of authority behind the Constitution and;
2. It enlists the objects of the Constitution and thus provides a light under which the constitutional provisions shall be read and interpreted.

II. How does the Preamble describe the stature of India?

1. “We, the People of India,” indicates that the people are the source of authority behind this Constitution;
2. “Sovereign” signifies that India is independent of any external influence in conductance of its internal and external affairs;
3. “Socialist” adapting a unique and harmonious ‘democratic socialistic approach’ – an indicator of a mixed economic system, thus fostering the growth of private and public entities.
4. “Secular” implies a positive concept of secularism offering all religions an equal status and unbiased support from the State;
5. “Democratic Republic”, paving the way for a representative democracy with an indirectly elected head of the State.

III. The Preamble thus provides the ideals following which the Constitutional Provisions shall be interpreted. It is a set of guiding principles assuming the role of a safeguard for the citizens of the Nation.