What is Article 46 of Indian constitution |
Article 46 of the Indian Constitution is a part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). It directs the State (government) to promote the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of society — especially the Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) — and protect them from social injustice and exploitation.
📜 Text of Article 46 (Simplified)
“The State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, particularly the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.”
✅ Key Focus Areas of Article 46
Area | Description |
---|---|
Educational Upliftment | Government should provide free education, scholarships, and support to weaker sections |
Economic Development | Create job opportunities, training programs, and welfare schemes |
Protection from Injustice | Prevent discrimination, untouchability, and exploitation |
🧒 Who Are “Weaker Sections”?
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Scheduled Castes (SCs)
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Scheduled Tribes (STs)
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Other backward and economically disadvantaged people
🛠️ Schemes/Laws Based on Article 46
Law/Scheme | Purpose |
---|---|
SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 | Protects SC/STs from violence and discrimination |
Post Matric Scholarship Scheme | Provides financial help to SC/ST students |
Eklavya Model Residential Schools | Offers quality education to tribal children |
Stand-Up India Scheme | Encourages entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women |
Reservation in education & jobs | Uplifts weaker sections by giving them fair opportunities |
📌 Summary of Article 46
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Type of law | Directive Principle (non-enforceable in court) |
Focus | Educational and economic upliftment of SCs, STs, and weaker sections |
Protection | From social injustice and exploitation |
Government's duty | Make policies, laws, and welfare schemes |
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