Complete detailed Notes on Directive Principles of State Policy for BPSC and Other Competitive Exams in 2025
Indian Polity- 3
Here are detailed and structured notes on Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) Classification and Comparison with Fundamental Rights.
Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs)
Introduction to DPSPs
- Part IV of the Constitution (Articles 36 to 51).
- Inspired by the Irish Constitution (Directive Principles of Social Policy).
- Aim to establish a Welfare State.
- Not enforceable in court, but fundamental to governance.
- Help in interpreting the scope of Fundamental Rights and laws.
Objective of DPSPs
- Promote social and economic democracy.
- Ensure justice, equality, and dignity for all.
- Guide the state in policy formulation.
- Complement Fundamental Rights by addressing socio-economic goals.
Classification of DPSPs
DPSPs are broadly classified into three categories as per their ideological basis:
Socialist Principles
These aim to achieve economic and social justice and equality.
| Article | Directive |
| 38 | Promote welfare of people by securing a social order based on justice. |
| 39 | Equal pay for equal work, right to adequate livelihood, prevent concentration of wealth. |
| 41 | Right to work, education and public assistance. |
| 42 | Just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief. |
| 43 | Living wage and decent standard of life for workers. |
| 43A | Participation of workers in management of industries. |
| 47 | Raise level of nutrition and improve public health. |
Gandhian Principles
Based on ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, focusing on rural development and traditional values.
| Article | Directive |
| 40 | Organize village panchayats. |
| 43 | Promote cottage industries in rural areas. |
| 46 | Promote educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and weaker sections. |
| 47 | Prohibit intoxicating drinks and drugs. |
| 48 | Prohibit slaughter of cows and calves, and improve animal husbandry. |
Liberal-Intellectual Principles
Based on liberalism, promoting international peace, individual rights, and modern governance.
| Article | Directive |
| 44 | Uniform Civil Code (UCC) for the citizens. |
| 45 | Early childhood care and education (now replaced by Article 21A). |
| 48 | Modernize agriculture and animal husbandry. |
| 48A | Protect and improve environment and forests. |
| 49 | Protection of monuments and cultural heritage. |
| 50 | Separation of judiciary from executive. |
| 51 | Promote international peace and security, respect for international law. |
Comparison: Fundamental Rights vs DPSPs
| Basis | Fundamental Rights (FRs) | Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) |
| Part of Constitution | Part III (Articles 12–35) | Part IV (Articles 36–51) |
| Nature | Justiciable (enforceable in courts) | Non-justiciable (not legally enforceable) |
| Aim | Establish political democracy | Establish economic and social democracy |
| Applicability | Applicable to State and Citizens | Applicable only to State |
| Priority | In case of conflict, FRs prevail | DPSPs are subordinate to FRs, unless amended otherwise |
| Example | Right to Equality, Freedom of Speech | Promotion of village panchayats, UCC, public health |
However, over time, the Supreme Court has tried to bring harmony between both through judicial interpretation (e.g., Kesavananda Bharati case, Minerva Mills case).
Important Amendments Related to DPSPs
| Amendment | Impact |
| 42nd Amendment (1976) | Added Articles 39A, 43A, and 48A. Strengthened importance of DPSPs. |
| 44th Amendment (1978) | Clarified that Article 38(1) includes minimizing income inequalities. |
| 86th Amendment (2002) | Shifted Article 45 to make elementary education a Fundamental Right (Article 21A). |
Important Supreme Court Judgments
- Champakam Dorairajan (1951): FRs prevail over DPSPs if there’s a conflict.
- Kesavananda Bharati (1973): FRs and DPSPs must be balanced; DPSPs are part of the basic structure.
- Minerva Mills (1980): Harmony between FRs and DPSPs is essential for the Constitution’s integrity.
Expected Questions (UPSC/BPSC)
- Which part of the Constitution contains DPSPs?
Part IV (Articles 36–51) - Which classification of DPSPs includes UCC and environmental protection?
Liberal-Intellectual Principles - Are DPSPs enforceable by court?
No, they are non-justiciable. - Which Article directs the State to promote international peace and security?
Article 51 - Which case emphasized that FRs and DPSPs should be read harmoniously?
Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
Excellent