On December 13, 1946, Jawaharlal Nehru introduced the historic Objective Resolution. This resolution laid down the fundamental principles and philosophy that would guide the framing of the Constitution.
It was unanimously adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
The resolution contained details about the territory of India, fundamental rights, judicial independence, and the vision for a sovereign, democratic republic.
- Legislative Body: The Assembly was empowered to make laws for the newly independent country, functioning as its first parliament.
- Sovereign Body: It was given full freedom to conduct its affairs and frame a constitution of its choice, free from any external interference.
Following independence, members from the princely states, who had initially stayed away, also joined the assembly.
| Committee Name | Chairman |
|---|---|
| Union Power Committee | Jawaharlal Nehru |
| Union Constitution Committee | Jawaharlal Nehru |
| Provincial Constitution Committee | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel |
| Advisory Committee on Fundamental Rights | Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel |
| Rules of Procedure Committee | Dr. Rajendra Prasad |
| Steering Committee | Dr. Rajendra Prasad |
| Drafting Committee | Dr. B.R. Ambedkar |
Drafting Committee Members
Chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, this crucial committee consisted of seven members: K.M. Munshi, Alladi Krishnaswami Aiyar, T.T. Krishnamachari, N. Madhava Rau, Gopalswami Ayyangar, and Mohammad Saadullah.
- Features were borrowed from the constitutions of about 60 countries.
- The total expenditure on writing the constitution was approximately ₹64 lakh.
- The entire process took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days.
Key Decisions and Dates
- India's membership in the Commonwealth was ratified in May 1949.
- The National Flag was adopted on July 22, 1947.
- The National Anthem & National Song were adopted on January 24, 1950.
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of India on January 24, 1950.
The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949 (celebrated as Constitution Day) and came into full effect on January 26, 1950 (celebrated as Republic Day).
1. Who introduced the Objective Resolution in the Constituent Assembly?
2. Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee?
3. When was the National Flag of India adopted by the Constituent Assembly?
4. The Indian Constitution was adopted on: