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| What is Article 43 of Indian constitution |
Article 43 of the Indian Constitution is a Directive Principle of State Policy (DPSP). It directs the State (government) to ensure that workers get a living wage, and have access to social and cultural life, not just basic survival.
📜 Text of Article 43 (Simplified)
“The State shall endeavour to secure, by suitable legislation or economic organization or in any other way, to all workers – agricultural, industrial, or otherwise – a living wage, conditions of work ensuring a decent standard of life, and full enjoyment of leisure and social and cultural opportunities.”
✅ Meaning of Article 43
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Living wage | A wage enough for a decent life — food, shelter, healthcare, education |
| Decent standard of life | Workers should live with comfort, health, and dignity |
| Leisure and culture | Workers should get rest time and chances for social and cultural growth |
🏭 Who does it apply to?
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All workers — not just in industries but also in:
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Agriculture
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Construction
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Self-employed sectors
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Informal and gig economy
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🛠️ Laws Based on Article 43
| Law / Scheme | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wages Act, 1948 | Ensures workers are paid a minimum amount |
| Code on Wages, 2019 | Merges wage laws and strengthens the concept of living wages |
| MGNREGA, 2005 | Provides wage-based employment for rural poor |
| Social Security Code, 2020 | Offers social protection to workers |
🧠 Example:
If a worker earns just enough to survive, but cannot afford education for children, decent housing, or medical care — then it is not a living wage.
👉 Article 43 says the government must create systems to fix this, so workers live with dignity, not in poverty.
📌 Summary of Article 43
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Type of provision | Directive Principle of State Policy |
| Focus | Living wage, decent life, social & cultural opportunities |
| Target group | All types of workers |
| Court enforceable? | ❌ No, but guides law and policy-making |
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