Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

Directive Principles of State Policy- Short Notes

Chapter IV of Indian Constitution talks about Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) . Article 36 to 51 of our Indian constitution contains DPSP. These principles had been borrowed from Irish Constitution.

DPSP are not enforceable by law but state must formulate these DPSP while making laws. These Directive Principles are just like the “Instrument of Instructions” which were mentioned in the Government of India Act,1935. Likewise, these DPSP are the instructions given to the state while formulating policies. DPSP also refers to as the “Conscience of the Constitution”.

Classification of the Directive Principles

Socialist DPSP:  Contains ideas of socialist state

• Article 38: Promote justice – Social,Economical & Political
• Article 39: To secure a) adequate livelihood

                                                       b) Equitable distribution of resources

                                                       c) Prevention of concentration of wealth

                                                       d) Equal pay for equal work

• Article 39A: Provide free legal aid.
• Article 41: Right to work , education and public assistance
• Article 42: Provision for just and humane conditions
• Article 43: Equal opportunity to all.
• Article 43A: Participation of workers in the management of industries
• Article 47: Raise the level of nutrition and standard of living

Gandhian DPSP: Contains Gandhian philosophy and principles

• Article 40: Organise village Panchayat
• Article 43: Promote cottage industries
• Article 43B: Management of cooperative societies
• Article 46: Promote the interests of SC,ST and other backward sections
• Article 47: Prohibit consumption of intoxicating drinks
• Article 48: Prohibition of slaughter of cows

Liberal DPSP : Ideas of liberalism

• Article 44: Uniform Civil Code
• Article 45: early Childhood Care
• Article 48: Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
• Article 48A: Protect & Improve environment
• Article 49: Protect places, monuments & objects of national importance
• Article 50: To separate judiciary from executive
• Article 51: promote International Peace & security

Amendments to original structure of DPSP

Some Laws that are formulated keeping DPSP in mind

• Minimum Wages Act, 1948
• Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1955
• Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
• 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992
• Seat Reservation for women in Local Panchayats