Explain the significance and evolution of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, highlighting its role in shaping the constitutional philosophy and objectives. Illustrate your answer with relevant examples.

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution holds immense significance as it captures the core values, aspirations, and guiding principles of the nation. Throughout its evolution, the Preamble has played a vital role in shaping the constitutional philosophy and objectives of India. 

Significance of the Preamble:

1. It declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, emphasizing the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
2. The Preamble serves as the key to interpret the Constitution, acting as a guiding light for the judiciary in resolving constitutional disputes.
3. It reflects the collective will and vision of the Indian people, providing a moral and ethical foundation for governance.

Evolution of the Preamble:

1. The Preamble's evolution can be traced back to the Objectives Resolution moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946, which outlined the principles of an independent India.
2. The Preamble was adopted and enacted into the Constitution on January 26, 1950, witnessing a few amendments to reflect changing societal aspirations.
3. The 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976 added the words "socialist, secular" to the Preamble, highlighting the commitment to a just and egalitarian society.

Role in shaping constitutional philosophy and objectives:

1. The Preamble's commitment to justice has been reflected in various landmark judgments, such as ensuring social justice through reservations and protecting the rights of marginalized communities.
2. Liberty, as enshrined in the Preamble, has guided the interpretation of fundamental rights by the judiciary, safeguarding individual freedoms and limiting arbitrary state actions.
3. The Preamble's emphasis on equality has been instrumental in promoting affirmative action policies, striving to bridge social and economic disparities.
4. Fraternity, a core principle of the Preamble, has influenced policies promoting social harmony, unity, and inclusive growth.

Illustrative examples:

1. In Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), the Supreme Court held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and its basic structure cannot be amended.
2. The Preamble's commitment to justice was reflected in the judgment of Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992), where the Supreme Court upheld reservations to ensure social justice.
3. The Preamble's ideals of liberty and equality guided the decriminalization of homosexuality in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018).

In conclusion, the Preamble of the Indian Constitution has evolved to reflect the changing aspirations of the nation. Its significance lies in shaping the constitutional philosophy and objectives by providing a moral compass for governance and acting as a key interpretive tool for the judiciary. The Preamble's influence can be seen in landmark judgments and the formulation of policies aimed at achieving justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity in Indian society.

SYLLABUS: GS PAPER 1: Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society.