Polity (DPSP and Fundamental Duties) Study Note

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines for the central and state governments of India, aiming to establish a just society. These principles, though not enforceable by any court, are fundamental in the governance of the country and strive to ensure social and economic democracy.

Key Features:

1. Constitutional Provisions:
   • Part IV of the Indian Constitution covers Articles 36 to 51.
   • Inspired by the Irish Constitution, which in turn had copied it from the Spanish Constitution.
2. Classification:
   • Social and Economic Charter (Articles 38-43): Aims at securing welfare of the people by providing adequate means of livelihood, equitable distribution of resources, equal pay for equal work, protection of children, and so forth.
   • Gandhian Principles (Articles 40-48): Based on Gandhian ideology, these principles include promoting cottage industries, prohibiting intoxicating drinks and drugs, promoting educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and other weaker sections, and organizing village panchayats.
   • Liberal-Intellectual Principles (Articles 44-51): Includes principles such as a uniform civil code for the citizens, protection of the environment, promotion of international peace and security, and separation of judiciary from the executive.
3. Implementation and Influence:
   • They act as a beacon light for the government in policy-making.
   • Several laws have been enacted in the light of DPSPs, such as the Minimum Wages Act, Equal Remuneration Act, and the establishment of Panchayati Raj institutions.
4. Significant Articles:
   • Article 39: Ensures adequate means of livelihood for citizens, equal pay for equal work, and health and strength of workers.
   • Article 41: Right to work, education, and public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement.
   • Article 45: Provision for early childhood care and education to children below the age of six years.
   • Article 48A: Protection and improvement of the environment and safeguarding of forests and wildlife.

Fundamental Duties

Fundamental Duties are a set of moral obligations that all citizens are expected to follow to uphold the unity and integrity of India. These duties were added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, upon the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee.

Key Features:

1. Constitutional Provisions:
   • Part IVA of the Indian Constitution covers Article 51A.
   • Initially consisted of 10 duties, but the 86th Amendment Act, 2002, added an 11th duty.
2. List of Fundamental Duties:
   • To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
   • To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom.
   • To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
   • To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.
   • To promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India, transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women.
   • To value and preserve the rich heritage of our composite culture.
   • To protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures.
   • To develop the scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
   • To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.
   • To strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and achievement.
   • (Added by the 86th Amendment Act, 2002): To provide opportunities for education to his child or ward between the age of six and fourteen years.
3. Significance:
   • Fundamental Duties serve as a constant reminder to citizens that while enjoying rights, they should also be conscious of duties they owe to their country, society, and fellow citizens.
   • They promote a sense of discipline and commitment among citizens.
   • Though not legally enforceable, they are crucial for the overall development and unity of the nation.