Part IV: Directive Principles of State Policy

Part IV of the Constitution of India contains Directive Principles of State Policy, which are guidelines for the government in the governance of the country. While not legally enforceable by the courts, these principles are considered fundamental in the governance of the country and are aimed at achieving social and economic justice.

Article 36 - Definition of the State

Article 36 defines the term "State" for the purpose of interpreting Directive Principles of State Policy. It includes the Government of India, the Parliament of India, the Government and Legislature of each of the states, and all local or other authorities within the territory of India or under the control of the Government of India.

Article 37 - Application of the Principles contained in this Part

Article 37 states that the provisions contained in Part IV of the Constitution shall not be enforceable by any court but the principles therein laid down are nevertheless fundamental in the governance of the country and it shall be the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.

Article 38 - State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people

Article 38 emphasizes that the State shall strive to promote the welfare of the people by securing and protecting a social order conducive to the promotion of social, economic, and political justice and equality of status and opportunity.

Article 39 - Certain principles of policy to be followed by the State

Article 39 outlines certain principles of policy to be followed by the State, including securing adequate means of livelihood for all citizens, equal pay for equal work for both men and women, and the protection of children from exploitation.

Article 40 - Organisation of village panchayats

Article 40 directs the State to take steps to organize village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.

Article 41 - Right to work, to education and to public assistance in certain cases

Article 41 directs the State to provide within the limits of its economic capacity and development, for securing to all citizens 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.

Article 42 - Provision for just and humane conditions of work and maternity relief

Article 42 directs the State to make provisions for securing just and humane conditions of work and for maternity relief.

In summary, Part IV of the Constitution of India lays down the Directive Principles of State Policy, which serve as guidelines for the government in the governance of the country. While not enforceable by the courts, these principles are fundamental in the governance of the country and it is the duty of the State to apply them in making laws.