Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) has been taken from the Irish constitution and enumerated in Part IV of the Indian Constitution. The concept behind the DPSP is to create a ‘Welfare State’. In other words, the motive behind the inclusion of DPSP is not establishing political democracy rather, it’s about establishing social and economic democracy in the state. 

What are the Directive Principles?

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) is something like the ‘blueprint of the constitution’. In other words, DPSP lays down the objectives which are to be achieved by the State by following some guidelines in order to ensure social and economic justice in the country. It is a common saying that ‘constitution not only describes a system but also prescribes some directions which need to be followed while making policies’. Thus, DPSP serves as a precursory idea or guidelines which should be followed while formulating any law, policy in order to carry out social and economic justice.

Objective of Directive Principles:

The main objective of DPSP is to ensure social and economic justice in the country. In other words, DPSP lays down the guidelines for achieving social and economic justice. Thus, DPSP serves as a precursory idea for formulating policies which should be carried out in order to develop an egalitarian society where it becomes possible for every individual to fulfill their basic needs. In short, this is a system designed to minimize inequalities in society.

Why was DPSP introduced?

The ideals of DPSP were first introduced in the constitution of Ireland and Great Britain. At that time, these countries were considered as social democracies – at least economically and nothing else. Thus, after becoming citizens of the country with such democratic characteristics, the people think to create those same democratic institutions which would be able to make their democracy more equitable and even more sustainable. The people who are in favor of a more just and equitable society believe that there should be some basic guidelines laid down for all future policies which might be decided by the government. Thus, DPSP has been formulated on the basis of such ideals.

Functions of Directive Principles:

1) DPSP plays a vital role in ensuring social and economic justice in the country. In this regard, DPSP has been enumerated in Part IV of the Constitution as ‘Directive Principles’.

2) Through these principles, a welfare state can be created in India which works for the welfare and upliftment of every individual citizen belonging to any community or religion.

3) DPSP lays down certain guidelines which should be followed while preparing policies so that the citizens can achieve the basic needs of life.

4) These principles highlight the conditions and safeguards under which the Fundamental Rights can be enjoyed by every individual in India. 

5) DPSP also builds up a system where ‘equality’ and ‘dignity’ of human beings is achieved and maintained.

List of Directive Principles of State Policy

Article 36- Defines the “state”.

Article 37-Part IV of the Indian Constitution shall not be enforceable in any court of law.

Article 38-Social, Political and Economic Justice.

Article 39-Principles of Policy.

Article 39A-Free Legal aid.

Article 40-Organization of Panchayats.

Article 41-Welfare Government.

Article 42-Securing just and humane work and maternity relief.

Article 43-Fair wages and a decent standard of life.

Article 43-A-Workers’ participation in management.

Article 43-B-Promotion of Cooperatives.

Article 44-Uniform Civil Code.

Article 45-Infant and Child Care.

Article 46-Protection of SCs, STs and other weaker sections from exploitation.

Article 47-Nutrition, Standard of living and public health.

Article 48-Scientific agriculture and animal husbandry.

Article 48-A-Environment and Wildlife Protection.

Article 49-Protection of monuments and places and objects which have national importance.

Article 50-Judiciary should be separate from the Executive.

Article 51-The state shall promote international peace and security.

Conclusion:

The DPSP lays down certain guidelines which should be followed while formulating policies under the state so as to ensure social and economic justice in the country. It is a common saying that ‘constitution not only describes a system but also prescribes some directions which need to be followed while making policies’. Thus, DPSP serves as a precursory idea or guidelines which should be followed while formulating any law, policy in order to carry out social and economic justice. In this regard, DPSP has been enumerated in Part IV of the Constitution as ‘Directive Principles’.