Actual Article
Article 51 of the Indian Constitution lays down the directive principles of state policy regarding the promotion of international peace and security. This article emphasizes India’s commitment to fostering peaceful and cooperative relations with other nations and upholding international law and justice.
Text of Article 51
“The State shall endeavour to—
(a) promote international peace and security;
(b) maintain just and honourable relations between nations;
(c) foster respect for international law and treaty obligations in the dealings of organised peoples with one another; and
(d) encourage settlement of international disputes by arbitration.”
UPSC Notes for Article 51
- Objective: To guide the Indian state in its interactions with other nations, promoting peace, justice, and respect for international law.
- Key Provisions:
- International Peace and Security: Encourages the Indian state to actively work towards global peace and stability.
- Just and Honourable Relations: Advocates for maintaining fair and respectful relations with all nations.
- Respect for International Law: Stresses the importance of adhering to international legal standards and treaty obligations.
- Arbitration in Disputes: Promotes the use of arbitration as a peaceful means to resolve international conflicts.
- Significance: Reflects India’s commitment to global harmony and justice, aligning its foreign policy with the principles of international cooperation and legal order.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 51
- Keshavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala (1973): While this case primarily dealt with the basic structure doctrine, it underscored the significance of directive principles, including those in Article 51, as guiding principles for state policy.
- Vishakha vs. State of Rajasthan (1997): This case highlighted the importance of international conventions in shaping domestic laws, indirectly reflecting the respect for international law advocated by Article 51.
Important Reports Related to Article 51
- National Commission to Review the Working of the Constitution (2002): Suggested measures to strengthen the implementation of directive principles, including those related to international peace and security.
- Law Commission of India Reports: Various reports have discussed the importance of integrating international legal standards into domestic law, aligning with the principles of Article 51.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 51
- Prelims 2018:
- Which of the following objectives are promoted by Article 51 of the Indian Constitution?
- International peace and security
- Just and honourable relations between nations
- Respect for international law
- Settlement of international disputes by arbitration
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
- (d) 1 and 4 only
- Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
- Prelims 2015:
- Under which part of the Indian Constitution do the Directive Principles of State Policy, including Article 51, fall?
- (a) Part II
- (b) Part III
- (c) Part IV
- (d) Part V
- Answer: (c) Part IV
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 51
- Mains 2019:
- Discuss how the principles laid down in Article 51 can guide India’s foreign policy in the contemporary global scenario.
- Mains 2016:
- Evaluate the significance of Directive Principles of State Policy in shaping India’s approach to international relations. How does Article 51 contribute to this framework?
Article 51 is instrumental in guiding India’s foreign policy and international relations. It underscores the country’s commitment to promoting global peace, maintaining honorable relations, respecting international law, and resolving disputes through peaceful means. Understanding its provisions and significance is essential for UPSC aspirants, as it forms a vital part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, reflecting India’s approach to global harmony and justice.