Constitution of India/Directive principles of state policy

Introduction

The Directive Principles of State Policy are a set of guidelines and principles enshrined in the Constitution of India that aim to ensure social, economic, and political justice to all citizens of the country. These principles are not justiciable in a court of law, but they are fundamental in the governance of the country.

The Directive Principles of State Policy are enumerated in Part IV of the Indian Constitution, from Articles 36 to 51. These principles are not enforceable by any court, but they are fundamental in the governance of the country. The Directive Principles are guidelines for the government, and it is the responsibility of the government to strive to achieve them.

The Directive Principles are a reflection of the socialistic, secular, and democratic nature of the Indian Constitution. They lay down the foundation for the government to promote the welfare of the people, to work towards a just society, and to foster an environment where everyone can live with dignity and self-respect.

One of the most significant Directive Principles is Article 39(a), which states that the state shall direct its policy towards securing that the citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood. This principle forms the basis of various government schemes and programs aimed at poverty alleviation, employment generation, and social security.

Another important Directive Principle is Article 39(b), which directs the state to ensure that there is an equal distribution of wealth and resources among citizens. This principle is reflected in the government's policies regarding land reforms, nationalization of key industries, and the promotion of cooperative societies.

Article 45 of the Constitution directs the state to provide free and compulsory education for all children up to the age of 14. This Directive Principle has played a significant role in the spread of education in the country, and the government has taken various measures to ensure that every child has access to quality education.

Article 47 directs the state to improve public health and promote the prohibition of consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs that are injurious to health. This Directive Principle has played a crucial role in the government's efforts to eradicate various diseases, promote public health, and combat drug abuse.

History

The Directive Principles of State Policy were included in the Indian Constitution as a result of the influence of the Indian freedom struggle and the social and economic challenges faced by the newly independent country. The Directive Principles were seen as a means to ensure that the government worked towards the development of a just and equitable society, with a focus on the welfare of all citizens.

The initial draft of the Indian Constitution did not include the Directive Principles, but they were added during the drafting process based on the recommendations of the Constituent Assembly. The Assembly recognized the importance of these principles in guiding the government's policies and programs towards achieving the goals of social, economic, and political justice for all citizens.

Since the adoption of the Constitution in 1950, the Directive Principles of State Policy have undergone some changes and additions. For instance, in 1976, the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution added a new Directive Principle, Article 39A, which directed the state to provide free legal aid to the poor and weaker sections of society.

Over time, the Directive Principles have also been the subject of much debate and discussion in India, particularly in relation to their enforceability. While the Directive Principles are not justiciable in a court of law, they have played an important role in shaping government policies and programs aimed at promoting social, economic, and political justice.

References

Ministry of External Affairs - DIRECTIVE PRINCIPLES OF STATE POLICY

Vedantu - Directive Principle of State Policy | Learn Important Terms and Concepts#

UPSC Buddy - Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) - Explained