Amendability & status
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UPSC consistently tests whether the Preamble is amendable and its legal status as binding/non-binding. Questions often ask if Preamble can be amended, its role in constitutional interpretation, and distinction between Preamble and constitutional provisions. Common mistake: confusing Preamble's non-justiciability with irrelevance in judicial review.
Preamble amended only once—42nd Amendment 1976, added 'Socialist' and 'Secular'
Preamble is non-justiciable but legally binding interpretive aid
Kesavananda Bharati case: Preamble amended, but basic structure doctrine applies
Cannot standalone enforce Preamble; must align with actual constitutional text
Preamble is amendable like any other part under Article 368