Polity
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines in Part IV (Articles 36 to 51) of the Constitution that the State should follow while making laws and policies. They are non-justiciable, so courts cannot enforce them, but they are described as fundamental in the governance of the country (Article 37). The idea was borrowed from the Irish Constitution.
Last reviewed 2026-10-15
Classification
- Socialist principles: for example Article 38 (promote welfare and reduce inequality) and Article 39 (equitable distribution of resources, equal pay for equal work).
- Gandhian principles: for example Article 40 (village panchayats), Article 43 (cottage industries) and Article 47 (prohibition of intoxicating drinks).
- Liberal-intellectual principles: for example Article 44 (Uniform Civil Code), Article 45 (early childhood care and education), Article 50 (separation of judiciary from executive) and Article 51 (promotion of international peace).
Important amendments
- The 42nd Amendment (1976) added Article 39A (free legal aid), Article 43A (workers' participation in management) and Article 48A (protection of environment).
- The 86th Amendment (2002) changed Article 45 to cover early childhood care and education for children below six.
- The 97th Amendment (2011) added Article 43B on cooperative societies.
Fundamental Rights versus DPSP
- Fundamental Rights are justiciable. DPSP are not.
- Fundamental Rights restrain the State. DPSP direct the State to act.
- Fundamental Rights protect individuals. DPSP aim at the welfare of society.
- In Minerva Mills (1980) the Supreme Court held that the Constitution rests on a balance between Fundamental Rights and DPSP.
Frequently asked questions
Are Directive Principles enforceable in court?
No. Article 37 states that they are not enforceable by any court, though they are fundamental in the governance of the country.
Which article deals with the Uniform Civil Code?
Article 44.
From which constitution were DPSP borrowed?
The Irish Constitution.
Useful for these exams
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