RRB Group D GK GS Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) by Akshay Sir

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) serve as essential guidelines for the Indian state. These principles are intended to be followed by the government when formulating policies, aiming to ensure effective governance. 

The primary objective of the DPSP is to establish a welfare state in India. This vision extends beyond mere political democracy to encompass social and economic democracy, a very important concept frequently tested in examinations. DPSPs are designed to build a framework for social and economic justice.

Also Read: RRB Group D Notification 2026

RRB Group D GK GS Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines given in Part IV of the Indian Constitution to help the government create a welfare state. They aim to ensure social, economic, and political justice by promoting equality, education, health, and livelihood. Although DPSPs are not legally enforceable, they are fundamental in governance and policymaking.

Origin of DPSP in the Constitution

Understanding the origin of DPSP involves recognizing the constitutional recommendations.

The question of which commission or body recommended the DPSP's inclusion is an important point for advanced examinations. This is often contrasted with the origin of Fundamental Duties:

• Fundamental Duties: These were incorporated based on the recommendations of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee.

• DPSP: While the specific commission for DPSP is often explored, their philosophical roots can be traced to sources like the Government of India Act, 1935, which influenced the framers.

Constitutional Provisions and Source

The concept of DPSP was adopted from the Constitution of Ireland (also known as the Irish Republic). These principles are outlined in Part IV of the Indian Constitution, covering Article 36 to Article 51.

DPSP Vs Fundamental Rights

The nature of DPSPs is distinctly different from Fundamental Rights. This contrast is key to understanding their role in the Indian Constitution.

The judiciary aptly describes Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles as the two wheels of the constitution's chariot.

Classification of Directive Principles

DPSPs are broadly categorized into three groups based on their underlying ideology.

1. Socialist Principles

These principles aim to achieve social and economic justice and progress towards a welfare state.

• Article 38: The state shall strive to promote the welfare of the people by securing a social order where justice—social, economic, and political—informs all institutions. It also aims to minimize inequalities in income, status, facilities, and opportunities.

• Article 39: The state shall direct its policy towards securing:

• Adequate means of livelihood for all citizens.

• Equitable distribution of the material resources of the community.

• Equal pay for equal work for both men and women.

• Prevention of the abuse of workers' health and strength, and of children.

• Article 39A: To promote equal justice and to provide free legal aid to the poor.

• Article 41: To secure the right to work, to education, and to public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement.

• Article 42: To make provision for just and humane conditions of work and for maternity relief.

• Article 43: To secure a living wage, a decent standard of life, and social and cultural opportunities for all workers.

• Article 43A: To take steps to secure the participation of workers in the management of industries.

• Article 47: To raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living, and to improve public health.

2. Gandhian Principles

These principles embody the ideals and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi.

• Article 40: To organize village panchayats and grant them necessary powers to function as units of self-government.

• Article 43: To promote cottage industries on an individual or co-operative basis in rural areas.

• Article 46: To promote the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and other weaker sections of society.

• Article 47: To prohibit the consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs which are injurious to health.

• Article 48: To prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves, and other milch and draught cattle.

3. Liberal-Intellectual Principles

These principles reflect a liberal ideology.

• Article 44: To secure for all citizens a Uniform Civil Code (UCC) throughout India. (Memory Tip: The digits 4 and 4 are the same, representing "uniform")

• Article 45: To provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years.

• Article 48: To organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines.

• Article 48A: To protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country.

• Article 49: To protect monuments, places, and objects of artistic or historic interest which are declared to be of national importance.

• Article 50: To separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State.

• Article 51: To promote international peace and security. (Memory Tip: Think "Om Shanti Om" for international peace)

Significance of DPSP

DPSPs are crucial for India's governance and societal development.

• Supplementary to Fundamental Rights: They complement Fundamental Rights by establishing a framework for social and economic rights.

• Basis for Social and Economic Reforms: Many government laws and programs are inspired by DPSP, such as:

• MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) reflects Article 41 (right to work).

• The Legal Services Authorities Act provides free legal aid, fulfilling Article 39A.

• Wildlife (Protection) Act and Forest (Conservation) Act are based on Article 48A.

• The 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, which granted constitutional status to Panchayats and Municipalities, realize Article 40.

State's Role in Protecting Rights and DPSP Articles

A clear distinction exists between the judiciary's and the state's roles regarding rights.

• Judiciary's Role (Reactive): The judiciary acts to protect a citizen's Fundamental Rights after a violation has occurred. Individuals approach the court when their rights are infringed.

• State's Role (Proactive): The state should actively aim to prevent rights violations. Its goal is to create robust laws that minimize the need for citizens to seek court intervention. Moreover, the state is responsible for implementing the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).

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