DPSP

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are listed in Part IV of the Constitution (Articles 36 to 51).

• Inspired by the Irish Constitution, these principles aim to establish a welfare state.
• They are non-justiciable but fundamental in the governance of the country.

📝 PYQ (BPSC 64th): In which Part of the Constitution are the Directive Principles mentioned? → Part IV

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Key Features

• Guidelines for state policy-making
• Aim to ensure social and economic democracy
• Not legally enforceable by courts
• Duty of the State to apply them in law-making
• Help bridge the gap between Fundamental Rights and governance

📝 PYQ (BPSC 66th): Which part of the Constitution is non-justiciable? → Part IV – DPSPs

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Classification of DPSPs

1. Socialist Principles

• Aim at providing social and economic justice

• Ensure equity, equality, and welfare

  • Article 38 – Promote welfare of the people
  • Article 39 – Equal pay, right to livelihood, no wealth concentration
  • Article 41 – Right to work, education, public assistance
  • Article 42 – Just and humane work conditions
  • Article 43 – Living wage for workers
  • Article 47 – Nutrition and public health

2. Gandhian Principles

• Based on Mahatma Gandhi’s ideas of village upliftment and self-reliance

  • Article 40 – Organization of village panchayats
  • Article 43 – Promotion of cottage industries
  • Article 46 – Welfare of SCs, STs, and weaker sections
  • Article 48 – Prohibition of cow slaughter
  • Article 47 – Prohibition of intoxicating drinks

3. Liberal-Intellectual Principles

• Represent the ideology of a modern liberal state

  • Article 44 – Uniform Civil Code
  • Article 45 – Early childhood care and education
  • Article 48A – Protection of environment
  • Article 50 – Separation of powers between judiciary and executive
  • Article 51 – Promotion of international peace and security

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Amendments Related to DPSPs

• 42nd Amendment (1976):

  • Gave precedence of DPSPs over Fundamental Rights under Article 31C
  • Added Articles 39A, 43A, and 48A (Legal aid, workers' participation, environment)

• 86th Amendment (2002):

  • Changed Article 45 to provide early childhood care and education

📝 PYQ (BPSC 67th): Which article promotes Uniform Civil Code? → Article 44

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Conflict with Fundamental Rights

• Article 31C (post-42nd Amendment): Gave primacy to laws implementing DPSPs (39b & 39c) even if they violate Fundamental Rights under Article 14 or 19.
• Resolved by Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) – Parliament cannot alter the basic structure.

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Quick Revision Points

• Part: Part IV
• Articles: 36 to 51
• Not enforceable in court
• Inspired by: Irish Constitution
• Categories: Socialist, Gandhian, Liberal-Intellectual
• Uniform Civil Code: Article 44
• Environment protection: Article 48A

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Sources Used

• NCERT Class 11 – Indian Constitution at Work
• M. Laxmikanth – Indian Polity (6th Edition)
• Lucent GK – Polity Section
• Ghatna Chakra BPSC PYQs
• Official Constitution of India