Question

Which Article of the Indian Constitution requires the State to promote the economic interests of the weaker sections of society?

• A. Article 46
• B. Article 47
• C. Article 49
• D. Article 48

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Article 46

Article 46 of the Indian Constitution

• Article 46 falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), specifically in Part IV of the Constitution.
• It mandates that the State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, and in particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.
• The State shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.
• DPSPs are not legally enforceable by any court, but they are fundamental in the governance of the country and it shall be the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws. (Article 37)
• This principle aims to ensure social and economic justice and aims to establish a welfare state.
• Key related concepts for exams:
• Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST): Specific communities recognized by the President of India under Articles 341 and 342, respectively, often facing historical disadvantages.
• Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): Guidelines or principles set for the Union and State governments to follow while forming laws and policies. Inspired by the Irish Constitution.
• Fundamental Rights vs. DPSPs: Fundamental Rights are justiciable (enforceable by courts), while DPSPs are non-justiciable. However, DPSPs aim to achieve goals that are complementary to Fundamental Rights.
• Welfare State: A concept where the state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens.