Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) Polity Notes | Theory, FAQS, MCQs For NDA GAT Study Material

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📘 Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

• Dr. B. R. Ambedkar described the DPSPs as a ‘novel feature of the Constitution’. These are constitutional instructions or guidelines for the state in its legislative, executive, and administrative affairs. Their primary objective is to provide the social and economic base of a genuine democracy by ensuring welfare and equitable development.

• The Constitution does not explicitly classify the Directive Principles, but based on their content and purpose, they are grouped into three broad categories:

  1. Socialistic or Socio-Economic Principles
  2. Gandhian Principles
  3. Liberal Principles

Socialistic or Socio-Economic Principles

These principles aim to promote social justice and economic welfare.

  • Article 38: Directs the state to secure a social order based on welfare of the people.
  • Article 39: Policies for adequate means of livelihood, equal pay for equal work, prevention of concentration of wealth, and protection of children and youth from exploitation.
  • Article 41: Efforts to secure right to work, education, and assistance in cases of unemployment, sickness, or old age.
  • Article 42: Provides for just and humane working conditions and maternity relief.
  • Article 43: Ensures a decent standard of living and cultural opportunities for all workers.
  • Article 43A: Secures participation of workers in industrial management.
  • Article 47: Promotes better nutrition, living standards, and public health.

Gandhian Principles

These principles are inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of self-sufficiency and rural upliftment.

  • Article 40: Establishment of Village Panchayats with powers for self-government.
  • Article 43: Promotion of cottage industries.
  • Article 43B: Promotion of cooperative societies.
  • Article 46: Promotion of educational and economic interests of weaker sections.
  • Article 47: Prohibition of intoxicating drugs and drinks.
  • Article 48: Prevention of slaughter of cows and other milch cattle.

Liberal Principles

These principles focus on modern governance, justice, and peace.

  • Article 44: Implementation of a Uniform Civil Code.
  • Article 45: Provision for free and compulsory education for children.
  • Article 48: Organization of agriculture and animal husbandry.
  • Article 48A: Protection and improvement of the environment, forests, and wildlife.
  • Article 49: Protection of monuments and national heritage sites.
  • Article 50: Separation of judiciary from executive.
  • Article 51: Promotion of international peace and security.

✅ Difference between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Fundamental Rights (FRs)Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs)
Establishes the democratic political systemEstablishes the economic welfare of the state
Enforceable in court if violatedNot enforceable by the court of law
Can be suspended (except Articles 20 and 22) during emergenciesCannot be suspended under any condition
Viewed as negative, sometimes restricting state actionViewed as affirmative, guiding state actions
Limited in scopeBroad and endless in scope, covering political, administrative, and economic aspects
Focuses mainly on individual rightsFocuses on collective welfare and development

Understanding this difference helps in preparing for constitutional questions in the NDA exam, where both Fundamental Rights and DPSPs are frequently discussed. Students should refer to NDA polity notes preparation, and trusted resources such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf for further clarity.


📚 NDA FAQs – Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

1. What are the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)?

Answer:
The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are guidelines for the government to frame laws and policies that promote social and economic welfare. These principles, though not enforceable by courts, play a crucial role in ensuring that the governance structure works towards the upliftment of citizens. They provide the foundation for welfare-based democracy and help build a balanced society. Understanding these principles is important for aspirants preparing for the NDA exam, and referring to NDA polity notes preparation along with download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf can enhance conceptual learning.


2. Why are Directive Principles not enforceable in court?

Answer:
Directive Principles are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced through the judiciary. The reason is that these principles are intended as policy directions to be implemented over time depending on the state’s financial and administrative capacity. However, they still guide lawmakers and administrators in shaping welfare-oriented policies. For NDA exam preparation, it’s crucial to understand this distinction between Fundamental Rights and DPSPs, which is explained well in NDA polity notes preparation and through study material like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


3. How do Gandhian Principles help rural development?

Answer:
The Gandhian Principles, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals, focus on self-sufficiency, decentralization, and rural empowerment. Articles like 40 (Village Panchayats), 43 (cottage industries), and 47 (prohibition of intoxicants) aim to create sustainable communities with local governance and improved living conditions. These principles are important when studying social justice and rural development for the NDA exam, and are covered in depth in NDA polity notes preparation, supported by references such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


4. What is the importance of Socialist Principles in Directive Principles?

Answer:
Socialist Principles in DPSPs focus on reducing inequality and ensuring welfare for all, such as equal pay, proper working conditions, nutrition, and public assistance. Articles like 38, 39, 41, 42, and 47 aim to create a just society by addressing poverty, unemployment, and exploitation. These principles form the basis of welfare state policies and are relevant to topics on social governance and rights in the NDA exam. Candidates are encouraged to explore these through NDA polity notes preparation, using study resources like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


5. What role do Liberal Principles play in modern governance?

Answer:
Liberal Principles focus on justice, equality, environmental conservation, and international cooperation. Articles like 44 (Uniform Civil Code), 48A (environment protection), and 51 (international peace) ensure that governance is aligned with contemporary issues. These principles reflect India’s commitment to modernization and global responsibility, making them an important topic for the NDA exam. Aspirants should strengthen their understanding through NDA polity notes preparation and additional resources like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


6. How do DPSPs complement Fundamental Rights?

Answer:
While Fundamental Rights protect individual freedoms, Directive Principles ensure the economic and social welfare of society. Together, they create a balanced framework where rights are safeguarded and policies promote equitable development. This complementary relationship is essential to understanding the Constitution’s vision and governance, a key subject in the NDA exam. Students should consult NDA polity notes preparation and study materials such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf for a thorough understanding.


✅ NDA MCQs – Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs)

1. Who described the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) as a ‘novel feature of the Constitution’?
A) Mahatma Gandhi
B) Dr B. R. Ambedkar
C) Jawaharlal Nehru
D) Sardar Patel

Correct Answer: B) Dr B. R. Ambedkar

Explanation:
Dr B. R. Ambedkar described the DPSPs as a ‘novel feature of the Constitution’, highlighting their importance in providing guidelines to the state in legislative, executive, and administrative matters. These principles are aimed at achieving social and economic justice and form the foundation of welfare-oriented governance. For candidates preparing for the NDA exam, it’s important to understand the historical context of constitutional provisions. Refer to NDA polity notes preparation and trusted resources like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf to explore these concepts in detail.


2. Which of the following is an objective of the Directive Principles under Article 39?
A) To abolish titles
B) To provide equal pay for equal work
C) To ensure religious freedom
D) To protect monuments and places of national importance

Correct Answer: B) To provide equal pay for equal work

Explanation:
Article 39 directs the state to secure equal access to livelihood, prevent concentration of wealth, and ensure equal pay for equal work for both men and women. These socio-economic measures are aimed at promoting fairness and reducing disparities. Questions like this are commonly asked in governance-related sections of the NDA exam, and candidates are advised to strengthen their understanding through NDA polity notes preparation and study aids such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


3. Which article of the Directive Principles focuses on establishing Village Panchayats as units of self-government?
A) Article 40
B) Article 43
C) Article 45
D) Article 48

Correct Answer: A) Article 40

Explanation:
Article 40 emphasizes the establishment of Village Panchayats and empowering them to function as effective units of self-government. This is a Gandhian principle aimed at decentralizing governance and promoting local participation in decision-making. Such provisions are relevant for understanding rural development and grassroots democracy, which are often covered in the NDA exam. For thorough preparation, aspirants should study this topic in NDA polity notes preparation and consult materials like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


4. Which of the following is a Liberal Principle mentioned under the Directive Principles?
A) Promotion of cottage industries
B) Protection of environment and wildlife
C) Prohibition of intoxicating drinks
D) Prevention of exploitation of children

Correct Answer: B) Protection of environment and wildlife

Explanation:
Article 48A focuses on the protection and improvement of the environment, forests, and wildlife, which is a modern concern addressed by the liberal principles under the DPSPs. These provisions reflect the Constitution’s foresight in addressing ecological issues. Questions related to environmental protection and governance frequently appear in the NDA exam, and students are encouraged to explore these through NDA polity notes preparation and sources such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


5. Which article under the DPSPs aims to promote international peace and security?
A) Article 43
B) Article 47
C) Article 49
D) Article 51

Correct Answer: D) Article 51

Explanation:
Article 51 seeks to promote international peace and security, aligning India’s policies with global cooperation and diplomacy. This shows how the Directive Principles also extend beyond domestic welfare and address India’s role in global affairs. Understanding these aspects is crucial for aspirants preparing for the NDA exam, especially when studying governance and foreign policy, using resources like NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf.


6. Which of the following is a key difference between Fundamental Rights (FRs) and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs)?
A) FRs are guidelines, while DPSPs are enforceable rights
B) DPSPs can be suspended during emergencies, but FRs cannot
C) FRs are enforceable in courts, while DPSPs are not
D) DPSPs are assumed negative, while FRs are affirmative

Correct Answer: C) FRs are enforceable in courts, while DPSPs are not

Explanation:
One of the most important differences is that Fundamental Rights are enforceable by the judiciary, allowing citizens to challenge violations in court. On the other hand, Directive Principles are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced through legal proceedings, though they guide policy-making. This distinction is frequently tested in the NDA exam, and students should carefully study it as part of NDA polity notes preparation, supported by resources such as download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


7. Which article prohibits employment of children below 14 years in hazardous industries?
A) Article 42
B) Article 23
C) Article 24
D) Article 47

Correct Answer: C) Article 24

Explanation:
Article 24 prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in factories, mines, or hazardous occupations, ensuring their protection from exploitation and unsafe working conditions. This aligns with the socio-economic goals of DPSPs to create a safer and more equitable society. Such topics are crucial for civil governance sections of the NDA exam, and aspirants are advised to study them thoroughly using NDA polity notes preparation, and materials like download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf.


8. What is the aim of Article 47 under the Directive Principles?
A) To ensure judicial independence
B) To provide maternity relief and improve public health
C) To raise the level of nutrition and improve living standards
D) To promote international relations

Correct Answer: C) To raise the level of nutrition and improve living standards

Explanation:
Article 47 outlines the duty of the state to enhance nutrition, living standards, and public health, which is a core socio-economic objective under the Directive Principles. Welfare policies are shaped around this article to ensure the overall development of citizens. For aspirants preparing for the NDA exam, understanding how health and nutrition policies are constitutionally supported is essential, and studying through NDA polity notes preparation, along with download NDA notes and download NDA study material pdf, provides deep insights.


9. Which article of the Directive Principles promotes the organization of agriculture and animal husbandry?
A) Article 45
B) Article 48
C) Article 40
D) Article 51

Correct Answer: B) Article 48

Explanation:
Article 48 promotes the organization of agriculture and animal husbandry, aiming to improve rural livelihoods and ensure food security. This provision helps strengthen economic activities in farming and animal care, contributing to sustainable development. Aspirants preparing for the NDA exam should understand how such policies support economic welfare, and consulting resources like NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf will help cover this topic thoroughly.


10. Which of the following is a feature of Gandhian Principles under DPSP?
A) Promotion of international peace
B) Free and compulsory education for children
C) Establishment of Village Panchayats
D) Protection of national monuments

Correct Answer: C) Establishment of Village Panchayats

Explanation:
Article 40 under the Gandhian Principles focuses on the establishment of Village Panchayats, empowering rural governance and promoting self-rule at the grassroots level. Gandhian ideals emphasize decentralized governance and community participation. Understanding these principles is essential for tackling governance-related questions in the NDA exam, and referring to NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf can provide comprehensive insights.


11. Which of the following statements is true regarding DPSPs?
A) They are enforceable by courts at any time.
B) They are suggestions for welfare-oriented governance.
C) They can be suspended during national emergencies.
D) They only deal with foreign relations.

Correct Answer: B) They are suggestions for welfare-oriented governance.

Explanation:
The Directive Principles are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced by courts. However, they serve as guidelines for the state to implement welfare programs and ensure economic, social, and cultural development. They are not suspended during emergencies and cover various aspects including governance, education, environment, and health—not just foreign relations. Students preparing for the NDA exam should carefully understand this distinction and consult resources like NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf to gain a structured understanding.


12. Which article under DPSP focuses on providing free and compulsory education for children?
A) Article 44
B) Article 45
C) Article 43A
D) Article 47

Correct Answer: B) Article 45

Explanation:
Article 45 aims to provide free and compulsory education for children, ensuring that every child receives foundational learning as part of nation-building. This is one of the key welfare measures under the Directive Principles, helping achieve literacy and human development goals. For aspirants preparing for the NDA exam, it’s important to remember such provisions while practicing from NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf.


13. Which article ensures separation of judiciary from the executive?
A) Article 48A
B) Article 50
C) Article 43B
D) Article 39

Correct Answer: B) Article 50

Explanation:
Article 50 directs the state to separate the judiciary from the executive, strengthening the rule of law and ensuring impartiality in justice delivery. This separation is fundamental for democratic governance and is often a subject in constitutional discussions in the NDA exam. Candidates should thoroughly study this provision using materials like NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf for better understanding.


14. Which article of the Directive Principles focuses on preventing exploitation of children and youth?
A) Article 39
B) Article 47
C) Article 44
D) Article 48

Correct Answer: A) Article 39

Explanation:
Article 39 seeks to provide adequate livelihood opportunities and protect children and youth from exploitation. It ensures equal pay and access to resources while also emphasizing the importance of preventing child labor and abuse. Understanding this article helps in solving welfare-related questions in the NDA exam, and aspirants should refer to NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf for detailed learning.


15. What is the purpose of Article 47 under DPSPs?
A) Promote international trade
B) Raise nutrition levels and improve public health
C) Establish uniform civil laws
D) Provide legal aid to workers

Correct Answer: B) Raise nutrition levels and improve public health

Explanation:
Article 47 focuses on improving the nutritional level and living standards of citizens, while also promoting better public health measures. These provisions support government initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of citizens and ensuring sustainable development. Such welfare policies are a common topic in the NDA exam, and candidates should prepare thoroughly using NDA polity notes preparation, download NDA notes, and download NDA study material pdf to understand the application of these principles.


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⬅️ Fundamental Rights Fundamental Duties ➡️

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💬 WhatsApp Us Instantly

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