GS2 · 15 marks · 250 words

Considering the non-enforceable nature of fundamental duties and directive principles of state policy, critically examine their impact in socio-political norms.

Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024

Directive Principles and DutiesConstitution and Basic Structure

Syllabus: Indian Constitution—historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.

How toppers approached it

From 4 of the 5 answers · about 280 words · 75% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening2 of 4
  • A definition1 of 4
  • A constitutional or legal provision1 of 4

Body

  • Points and prose3 of 4
  • Points1 of 4

Close

  • A way forward2 of 4
  • A quotation1 of 4
  • A summary1 of 4

The toppers’ answers

Madhav AgarwalAIR 16 · CSE 2024 · 201 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening · a constitutional or legal provision

The Directive Principles of state policy (DPSP) and Fundamental duties are covered under Part IV (Article 36-51) and Part IV A (Article 51 A) of the Indian Constitution.

Unlike fundamental rights they are non-enforceable, thus making their impact a mixed bag.

Impact in socio-political norms :-

(A) Directive principle of state policies:

Visible positive impact:

Body · points and prose

(1) Article 40:- Calls for grassroot democracy brought via 73rd/74th Amendment Act

(2) Article 50 : Separation of powers through check & balances by three organs.

(3) Worker benefits : Worker participation in management via Labour codes, minimum wage under Code of wages.

(4) Inclusive Growth : by reforms such as progressive taxation, land reforms to check concentration of wealth.

(5) Other : Steps for health, environment also taken.

Diagram
- Scope for Improvement - Inequality on rise (Oxfam Report) - grassroot-democracy becoming dependent and agents of government - Work towards living wage, universal health coverage

(B) Fundamental Duties :

Visible impact positive : (1) Respect for flag, anthem, constitution via National Honours Act.

(2) Spirit of enquiry under 51A (h) fostered through education (3) Right to education (Article 21A) promoted & led to near 100% enrolment due to duty under 51A (k).

Diagram
- Scope for improvement - Overcome colonial mindset and remember ideals of freedom struggle - New duties: cleanliness, pay taxes - Reduce issues of women (social, political, economic) to bring women led empowerment & dignity

Close · a way forward

DPSP and FD have to be widely promoted to create an awareness among citizens.

Only then India could march faster towards its goal of becoming a "developed nation by 2047".

More on Directive Principles and Duties

Part IV and IVA, their relationship with Fundamental Rights.

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