Directive principles of State Policy

The ideal of Welfare State in the Indian Constitution is enshrined in its Directive principles of State Policy. Directive principles of State Policy are guidelines that the state should keep in mind while formulating policies and making laws for the country. These principles are not enforceable by any court but are considered fundamental in the governance of the country.

Key Directive Principles related to Welfare State

1. Article 38: The State shall strive to promote the welfare of the people by securing and protecting as effectively as it may, a social order in which justice, social, economic and political, shall inform all the institutions of the national life.

2. Article 39: The State shall, in particular, direct its policy towards securing:
- That the citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood.
- That the ownership and control of material resources of the community are so distributed as best to subserve the common good.
- That the operation of the economic system does not result in the concentration of wealth and means of production to the common detriment.
- That there is equal pay for equal work for both men and women.
- That the health and strength of workers, men, and women, and the tender age of children are not abused and that citizens are not forced by economic necessity to enter avocations unsuited to their age or strength.

3. Article 41: The State shall, within the limits of its economic capacity and development, make effective provision for securing the right to work, to education, and to public assistance in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and disablement, and in other cases of undeserved want.

4. Article 42: The State shall make provisions for securing just and humane conditions of work and for maternity relief.

5. Article 47: The State shall regard the raising of the level of nutrition and the standard of living of its people and the improvement of public health as among its primary duties and, in particular, the State shall endeavor to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health.

Conclusion

The Directive principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution reflect the ideal of a Welfare State. These principles guide the government in formulating policies and laws that promote the welfare of the people, ensure social justice, and provide for the basic needs and well-being of the citizens. While they are not enforceable by the courts, they serve as a moral compass for the government to work towards creating a just and equitable society.