What is Article 47 of Indian Constitution – Defination & Meaning

Article 47: Duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living and to improve public health The State shall regard the raising of
📅 Part IV – Directive Principles of State Policy
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Article Number

47

part

Part IV – Directive Principles of State Policy

Status

Active

Bare Acts Text

Article 47: Duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living and to improve public health

  • The State shall regard the raising of the level of nutrition and the standard of living of its people and the improvement of public health as among its primary duties and, in particular, the State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health.
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Full Definition & Explanation

Article 47 of the Indian Constitution emphasizes the responsibility of the State to improve the nutrition levels and public health of its citizens. It recognizes that a healthy population is necessary for the development of the nation. This article directly affects all citizens, with a particular focus on vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those living in poverty. These groups often suffer the most from malnutrition and health-related issues, making the State’s role in their welfare key. The article mandates the State to take proactive steps to enhance nutrition and living standards. This includes implementing policies that promote healthy eating and access to nutritious food. Additionally, it encourages the prohibition of harmful substances, like intoxicating drinks and drugs, unless they are used for medicinal purposes. This means that the government can control and limit the availability of such substances to protect the well-being of its citizens. For example, states often enforce laws against the sale of alcohol in certain areas to prevent health issues related to excessive consumption. The real-world impact of Article 47 can be observed in various public health initiatives across India. Government programs aimed at improving nutrition in schools or campaigns to reduce tobacco and alcohol use are direct applications of this article. These initiatives not only lead to a healthier population but also contribute to social and economic development. By prioritizing health, the State lays the groundwork for a more productive society, benefiting everyone in the long run.

Historical Context

Article 47 was included in the Constitution when it was adopted in 1950, reflecting the framers’ commitment to the welfare of citizens. During the Constituent Assembly debates, members discussed the need for a strong focus on health and nutrition as part of the Directive Principles of State Policy. This article has remained unchanged since its inception, highlighting the importance the Constitution places on public health. The Supreme Court has reinforced its significance in various cases, such as the ‘Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity vs. State of West Bengal,’ emphasizing the State’s duty to provide adequate health facilities and services to its citizens.

Key Features

– Article 47 mandates that the State improve the nutrition levels of its citizens.
– It emphasizes the importance of public health as a government responsibility.
– The State is encouraged to prohibit harmful intoxicants for health protection.
– It specifically targets vulnerable populations to enhance their health and living conditions.
– The article reinforces the government’s role in ensuring better living standards for all.

Importance & Impact

– The article supports the creation of comprehensive health and nutrition policies at various levels.
– It promotes public health campaigns that aim to educate citizens about healthy living.
– The government has the authority to regulate substances that pose health risks to society.
– Programs addressing child nutrition are often directly linked to the provisions of this article.
– A healthier population leads to increased productivity and better economic outcomes for the nation.

Sample UPSC Question

Consider the following statements regarding Article 47 of the Indian Constitution: A) It mandates the State to improve public health and nutrition among citizens. B) It encourages the prohibition of all intoxicants without exceptions. C) It is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy that guides State action. D) It provides a fundamental right to health for all citizens. Which of the statements is/are correct? Explain your reasons for the answer choices you select.

Answer

The correct answer is A and C. Article 47 mandates the State to improve public health and nutrition, highlighting its role in ensuring citizens’ well-being. Option B is incorrect because it allows medicinal use of intoxicants. Option D is incorrect as health is a directive principle, not a fundamental right.

Key Takeaways

✓ Article 47 focuses on improving health and nutrition for citizens.
✓ The State has a duty to promote public health initiatives.
✓ Regulation of harmful substances is a key focus of this article.
✓ It specifically addresses the needs of vulnerable populations.
✓ A healthier population contributes to national growth and development.

FAQs

Article 47 focuses on the State’s duty to raise nutrition levels and improve public health standards. It encourages the government to take necessary steps to ensure the well-being of citizens. This includes regulating harmful substances and promoting health awareness among the population. For example, public health campaigns often draw on this article to guide their initiatives.

Article 47 guides the development of public health policies by emphasizing the need for improved nutrition and health awareness. It encourages the government to implement programs addressing malnutrition and substance abuse. The government often uses this article as a framework for initiatives aimed at protecting vulnerable populations, ensuring they receive adequate healthcare and nutrition.

Article 47 empowers the State to regulate harmful substances to protect public health. This includes prohibiting the sale and consumption of intoxicants in certain areas. For instance, states may implement laws that limit the availability of alcohol to prevent health-related issues, demonstrating the article’s real-world application in safeguarding citizens’ well-being.

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Pramod Pal Founder and Editor-in-Chief

Pramod is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of StudyHub. He holds a Master's degree and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Geology, alongside more than 7+ years spent building and verifying competitive exam content for Indian aspirants. He leads StudyHub's editorial process across Indian Polity, the Constitution, Indian Economy, History, Geography, Science, and the platform's other subject areas — checking every article against primary sources (bare act text and Gazette notifications for constitutional topics, government and Economic Survey data for economy content, standard reference material elsewhere) and flagging it for re-verification whenever a relevant amendment, policy, or data update makes an earlier version outdated.
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