The Citizenship Act of 1950 is a law in India that defines the criteria for Indian citizenship. It outlines how individuals can acquire citizenship by birth, descent, registration, and naturalization. The Act ensures that people born in India or to Indian parents can claim citizenship, establishing a legal framework for nationality in the country. Additionally, the Act provides provisions for the loss of citizenship and the rights of citizens. It was enacted shortly after India gained independence in 1947, reflecting the need for a clear legal identity for its citizens in a newly formed nation.