Actual Article
Article 46: Promotion of educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other weaker sections
The State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people, and, in particular, of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, and shall protect them from social injustice and all forms of exploitation.
UPSC Notes for Article 46
Explanation:
- Directive Principle: Article 46 is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) under Part IV of the Indian Constitution. It mandates the State to promote the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of society, specifically Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).
- Objective: The primary aim is to ensure social justice and equality by addressing the disparities faced by these communities and protecting them from exploitation.
Key Points:
- Educational Interests: The State is directed to provide special care in promoting education among SCs, STs, and other weaker sections to ensure they have access to quality education and opportunities for higher studies.
- Economic Interests: Focuses on improving the economic conditions of these communities through various schemes, subsidies, and programs aimed at their upliftment.
- Protection from Exploitation: Ensures that these communities are safeguarded against social injustices and all forms of exploitation, including economic, social, and cultural discrimination.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 46
Cases:
- State of Madras vs. Champakam Dorairajan (1951): The Supreme Court ruled that the State cannot make reservations in educational institutions based on caste or religion, leading to the First Amendment, which allowed the State to make special provisions for SCs, STs, and other backward classes.
- Indra Sawhney vs. Union of India (1992): Known as the Mandal Commission case, it upheld the reservations for OBCs in jobs and educational institutions, reinforcing the principles of Article 46.
Commissions:
- Kaka Kalelkar Commission (1953): The first Backward Classes Commission which recommended measures for the upliftment of backward classes, in line with Article 46.
- Mandal Commission (1980): Recommended reservations for OBCs, which led to significant policy changes to promote the educational and economic interests of backward classes.
Important Reports Related to Article 46
- Sachar Committee Report (2006): Highlighted the socio-economic and educational status of Muslims in India, recommending measures to improve their conditions, similar to the intent of Article 46 for SCs and STs.
- National Policy on Education (1986, 1992): Emphasized inclusive education, focusing on the upliftment of SCs, STs, and other weaker sections through targeted educational programs.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 46
- Prelims 2018: Which of the following Directive Principles aim at the educational and economic upliftment of the weaker sections of the society?
- A. Article 41
- B. Article 42
- C. Article 46
- D. Article 47
- Prelims 2020: Consider the following statements:
- Article 46 of the Indian Constitution directs the State to promote the educational and economic interests of weaker sections, including SCs and STs.
- Directive Principles of State Policy are enforceable by the courts.
- Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- A. 1 only
- B. 2 only
- C. Both 1 and 2
- D. Neither 1 nor 2
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 46
- Mains 2017: “The Directive Principles of State Policy, though non-justiciable, are fundamental in the governance of the country.” Discuss this statement with special reference to Article 46.
- Mains 2015: Examine the impact of the Directive Principles of State Policy on the socio-economic development of SCs and STs, with special reference to Article 46.
Additional Insights:
- Government Initiatives: Several schemes have been launched to promote the interests of SCs and STs, such as scholarships, reservations in educational institutions, and economic development programs like the Stand-Up India scheme.
- Challenges: Despite various initiatives, SCs and STs still face significant challenges, including discrimination, poverty, and lack of access to quality education and economic opportunities.
- Future Directions: Strengthening the implementation of Article 46 requires more focused policies, better monitoring, and active participation from civil society to ensure that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.
By understanding Article 46, UPSC aspirants can gain insights into the constitutional directive aimed at promoting the educational and economic interests of SCs, STs, and other weaker sections. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, providing a comprehensive understanding of the role of Directive Principles in shaping state policies for social justice and equality.