Article 47 of Indian Constitution - Detailed Analysis

Article 47 of Indian Constitution states that “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 endeavor to bring about prohibition of the consumption except for medicinal purposes of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health.”

The primary objective of Article 47 is to ensure that the State actively promotes public welfare through improved nutrition, higher living standards and better health outcomes along with the regulation of harmful substances.

According to Article 47 the State is expected to develop programs that -

• enhance dietary intake
• promote food security
• improve living conditions to foster a better quality of life for citizens

It emphasizes preventive health measures, disease control, healthcare infrastructure, and equitable access to healthcare services. It also encourages the State to limit the availability and consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs except for medicinal uses.

The Supreme Court in the State of Kerala vs N. M. Thomas (1976) highlighted the significance of DPSPs in guiding the governance of the State objectives. It underscored the role of DPSPs in public welfare and in shaping policy direction.

Vincent Panikurlangara vs Union of India (1987) case reinforced the responsibility of the State to protect public health under Article 47. The Court in this case highlighted the need for regulatory measures to control harmful substances.

Article 47 of Indian Constitution places a moral duty on the State to work toward holistic societal health and welfare by focusing on nutrition, living standards and controlling substances harmful to health. The article is not enforceable but it forms a crucial framework for policies promoting public welfare and serves as a guiding principle for health-related legislative and administrative measures.