Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) – UPPSC Polity Notes

Introduction

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) UPPSC Notes Polity are a unique feature of the Indian Constitution, forming the moral and philosophical foundation of governance in India.
They guide the State in framing policies and laws to establish a welfare state and promote social and economic democracy.

Constitutional Provisions

• DPSPs are mentioned in Part IV (Articles 36–51) of the Indian Constitution.

• They are non-justiciable (not legally enforceable in a court), but they are fundamental in the governance of the country.

• Inspired by the Irish Constitution (1937), which itself drew ideas from the Spanish Constitution.

• They aim to establish economic and social democracy as a complement to political democracy ensured by Fundamental Rights.

Classification of DPSPs

The 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act (1976) classified DPSPs into three main categories.

Socialist Principles

These principles aim to promote social and economic equality.

• Article 38: State to secure a social order for the welfare of the people.
• Article 39: Distribution of wealth and resources equally; equal pay for equal work.
• Article 41: Right to work, education, and public assistance.
• Article 42: Provision for humane working conditions and maternity relief.
• Article 43: Living wage for workers and participation in management.
• Article 47: Duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and improve public health.

Gandhian Principles

These principles reflect Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of self-reliance, village economy, and moral society.

• Article 40: Organisation of village panchayats.
• Article 43: Promotion of cottage industries.
• Article 46: Promotion of educational and economic interests of weaker sections.
• Article 47: Prohibition of intoxicating drinks and drugs.
• Article 48: Organisation of agriculture and animal husbandry on modern lines, and prohibition of cow slaughter.

Liberal-Intellectual Principles

These principles represent the liberal democratic ideology of the Constitution makers.

• Article 44: Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for all citizens.
• Article 45: Free and compulsory education for children (now covered under Article 21-A).
• Article 48: Protection of environment, forests, and wildlife.
• Article 50: Separation of judiciary from executive.
• Article 51: Promotion of international peace and security.

Directive Principles vs Fundamental Rights

Balance: The Supreme Court in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) held that both Fundamental Rights and DPSPs are part of the basic structure of the Constitution.

Important Amendments Related to DPSPs

• 42nd Amendment Act (1976): Added Article 39-A, 43-A, and 48-A (environment protection, worker participation).

• 44th Amendment Act (1978): Gave priority to Article 38 over Article 19 (Fundamental Right).

• 86th Amendment Act (2002): Added Article 21-A (Right to Education), derived from Article 45.

Landmark Judgments on DPSPs

• Champakam Dorairajan Case (1951): Declared that FRs prevail over DPSPs.

• Golaknath Case (1967): Reinforced supremacy of Fundamental Rights.

• Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Balanced both FRs and DPSPs.

• Minerva Mills Case (1980): Declared that both must harmonize; one cannot override the other.

Particular Details

Key Facts for UPPSC Prelims

• DPSPs are not legally enforceable, but fundamental in governance.

• Article 37: Clearly states their non-justiciable nature.

• Directive Principles act as a yardstick to measure government performance.

• Uniform Civil Code (Article 44) remains one of the most debated DPSPs.

• They aim for a welfare state, not a police state.

Conclusion

The Directive Principles of State Policy bridge the gap between law and morality. They give direction to governance and ensure that India evolves into a just, egalitarian, and welfare society.
Though non-enforceable, they act as a guiding light for both policymakers and citizens, shaping India’s social and economic development.

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Fundamental Rights of the Indian Constitution – UPPSC Notes Polity