Indian Polity
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
Definition
Directive Principles of State Policy are fundamental guidelines contained in Part IV (Articles 36-51) of the Indian Constitution that direct the state in making laws and policies. These principles are non-justiciable but fundamental in governance, aiming to establish social and economic democracy.
Overview
## Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
Directive Principles of State Policy form the cornerstone of India's socio-economic governance framework, enshrined in Part IV of the Constitution (Articles 36-51). These principles serve as fundamental guidelines for state policy-making, though they are non-justiciable and cannot be enforced through courts.
### Classification of DPSPs
DPSPs are categorized into three groups:
• Socialist Principles: Promoting economic equality and social justice (Articles 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 47)
• Gandhian Principles: Reflecting Mahatma Gandhi's vision (Articles 40, 43, 46, 47, 48)
• Liberal-Intellectual Principles: Emphasizing individual development (Articles 44, 45, 49, 50, 51)
### Key Provisions
Article 38 directs the state to promote people's welfare through social order. Article 39 outlines principles for equal livelihood opportunities and wealth distribution. Article 44 calls for a Uniform Civil Code, while Article 45 mandates free education for children up to 14 years.
### Constitutional Significance
The Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) established that DPSPs, though non-enforceable, are equally important as Fundamental Rights in achieving constitutional objectives. The 42nd Amendment (1976) added Article 48A (environmental protection) and Article 51A (Fundamental Duties).
### Modern Relevance
DPSPs continue guiding policy formulation in areas like Right to Education Act 2009, MGNREGA, and various welfare schemes, demonstrating their enduring relevance in India's developmental journey toward social and economic democracy.
Directive Principles of State Policy form the cornerstone of India's socio-economic governance framework, enshrined in Part IV of the Constitution (Articles 36-51). These principles serve as fundamental guidelines for state policy-making, though they are non-justiciable and cannot be enforced through courts.
### Classification of DPSPs
DPSPs are categorized into three groups:
• Socialist Principles: Promoting economic equality and social justice (Articles 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 47)
• Gandhian Principles: Reflecting Mahatma Gandhi's vision (Articles 40, 43, 46, 47, 48)
• Liberal-Intellectual Principles: Emphasizing individual development (Articles 44, 45, 49, 50, 51)
### Key Provisions
Article 38 directs the state to promote people's welfare through social order. Article 39 outlines principles for equal livelihood opportunities and wealth distribution. Article 44 calls for a Uniform Civil Code, while Article 45 mandates free education for children up to 14 years.
### Constitutional Significance
The Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) established that DPSPs, though non-enforceable, are equally important as Fundamental Rights in achieving constitutional objectives. The 42nd Amendment (1976) added Article 48A (environmental protection) and Article 51A (Fundamental Duties).
### Modern Relevance
DPSPs continue guiding policy formulation in areas like Right to Education Act 2009, MGNREGA, and various welfare schemes, demonstrating their enduring relevance in India's developmental journey toward social and economic democracy.