GK Express of 18/03/2026

🧠 Thought of the Day

“Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity—the preamble is not just words; it is the soul of our democracy.”

📘 Concept of the Day

Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

Why is this Topic Important?

Directive Principles of State Policy are fundamental guidelines for governance in India. They aim to establish a welfare state.

What are DPSPs?

Directive Principles of State Policy are provisions in the Constitution that guide the government in making laws and policies for social and economic welfare.

Welfare State – a state that works for the well-being of its citizens.
Non-justiciable – not enforceable by courts (citizens cannot go to court if DPSPs are not followed).

Constitutional Provisions

Part IV of the Indian Constitution
Articles 36 to 51
Inspired by Irish Constitution

Objectives of DPSPs

Establish social and economic democracy
Reduce inequality
Promote justice (social, economic and political)
Improve living standards

Types of DPSPs

1. Socialistic Principles

Equal pay for equal work (Article 39)
Right to adequate livelihood
Prevention of concentration of wealth

2. Gandhian Principles

Promotion of cottage industries
Organisation of village panchayats
Prohibition of alcohol
Protection of cows

3. Liberal-Intellectual Principles

Uniform Civil Code (Article 44)
Separation of judiciary from executive
Promotion of international peace

Relationship with Fundamental Rights

Fundamental Rights are enforceable by courts.
DPSPs are not enforceable but are equally important.
Both together aim to achieve a balanced and just society.

Balanced Approach – giving importance to both individual rights and social welfare.

Important Amendments and Cases

42nd Amendment (1976) – strengthened DPSPs
Minerva Mills Case (1980) – harmony between Fundamental Rights and DPSPs
Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) – basic structure doctrine

Importance of DPSPs

Guide law-making and policy decisions
Promote inclusive development
Help in achieving social justice
Reflect goals of Indian Constitution

Criticism

Non-justiciable nature reduces effectiveness
Lack of proper implementation
Sometimes conflict with Fundamental Rights

Simple Example

Schemes like MGNREGA and Right to Education are inspired by DPSPs to improve living conditions and provide equal opportunities.

🤔 Think About This

Tap a question to reveal the model approach

Q. How does the 'Neighborhood First' policy benefit India's internal security?

Introduction:
India’s “Neighborhood First” policy focuses on strengthening relations with its neighboring countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Myanmar. Good relations with neighbors are essential not only for development but also for maintaining internal security.

Benefits for Internal Security:

1. Better Border Management: Cooperation with neighboring countries helps in controlling illegal migration, smuggling, and infiltration across borders.

2. Counter-Terrorism Cooperation: Sharing intelligence and joint efforts help in tackling terrorism and extremist activities.

3. Reduction of Insurgency: Peaceful relations with neighbors reduce external support to insurgent groups, especially in the North-East region.

4. Control of Organized Crime: Joint actions help in controlling drug trafficking, human trafficking, and fake currency networks.

5. Stability in Border Regions: Development projects and connectivity improve economic conditions in border areas, reducing unrest.

6. Maritime Security: Cooperation with countries like Sri Lanka and Maldives strengthens security in the Indian Ocean and prevents illegal activities.

Challenges:

• Political instability in neighboring countries.
• Influence of external powers like China.
• Border disputes and trust deficit.

Conclusion:
The “Neighborhood First” policy plays a crucial role in strengthening India’s internal security by promoting cooperation, reducing cross-border threats, and ensuring stability in the region.

Q. What is the difference between 'Judicial Review' and 'Judicial Activism'? Explain with examples.

Introduction:
Judicial Review and Judicial Activism are important concepts related to the role of the judiciary in a democracy. While both involve the court’s power, they differ in scope and approach.

Difference between Judicial Review and Judicial Activism:

1. Meaning:
Judicial Review: It is the power of courts to examine the constitutionality of laws and government actions.
Judicial Activism: It is the proactive role of the judiciary in protecting rights and addressing issues beyond strict interpretation of law.

2. Nature:
Judicial Review: Based on constitutional provisions.
Judicial Activism: Based on judicial interpretation and initiative.

3. Objective:
Judicial Review: To ensure laws are consistent with the Constitution.
Judicial Activism: To promote justice, good governance, and protect public interest.

4. Scope:
Judicial Review: Limited to testing legality of actions.
Judicial Activism: Wider scope, sometimes includes policy directions.

5. Example:
Judicial Review: Striking down a law violating fundamental rights.
Judicial Activism: Issuing guidelines on issues like environmental protection or workplace safety (e.g., Vishaka Guidelines).

Conclusion:
Judicial Review is a constitutional duty of the courts, while Judicial Activism is an expanded role adopted to ensure justice and accountability. Both are important, but activism must be exercised carefully to maintain the balance of power.

📝 Let’s Write an Exam (PYQ)

Q.1 Which Article of the Indian Constitution provides for the "Right to Constitutional Remedies"?

Article 21

Article 44

Article 32

Article 14

Article 32 is known as the 'Heart and Soul' of the Constitution. It allows citizens to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights.

Q.2 The concept of "Rule of Law" in the Indian Constitution is borrowed from which country?

Britain (UK)

USA

Ireland

Australia

Borrowing from the British Constitution, the Rule of Law ensures that no person is above the law and that every citizen is subject to the same jurisdiction.

✍️ Answer These Questions

1. Who is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?

2. What is the minimum age to become the President of India?

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