The Constitution of India, that made India a sovereign, democratic republic, was formally adopted on November 26, 1949. It came into effect on January 26, 1950. This constitution replaced the Government of India Act, 1935 as the country’s fundamental governing document, and the Dominion of India became the Republic of India. The Constitution of India has a preamble and 448 articles - grouped into 25 parts. It is the second-longest active constitution in the world after the Constitution of Alabama. The constitution declares India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic, assuring its citizens’ justice, equality and liberty, and endeavours to promote fraternity.