When was the protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wildlife as a directive added in the Constitution of India?

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  1. 2002
  2. 1978
  3. 2011
  4. 1976

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 4 : 1976
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The correct answer is 1976.

Key Points

  • The protection and improvement of the environment and safeguarding forests and wildlife were added as Directive Principles of State Policy under Article 48A of the Indian Constitution in 1976.
  • This amendment was made through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, which is considered one of the most extensive amendments in Indian constitutional history.
  • Article 48A directs the State to endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country.
  • Additionally, Article 51A(g) was also added through the 42nd Amendment, which makes it a fundamental duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife.
  • The 42nd Amendment Act was enacted during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who emphasized environmental protection as a key priority.

Additional Information

  • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP):
    • DPSPs are guidelines for the central and state governments to ensure social and economic welfare in India.
    • They are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced by courts, but they are fundamental in governance.
    • Environmental protection was incorporated under DPSPs through Article 48A, emphasizing sustainable development.
  • 42nd Amendment Act of 1976:
    • It introduced significant changes to the Constitution, including adding new directives and duties.
    • It added Articles 48A and 51A(g), focusing on environmental conservation.
    • It is often referred to as the "Mini-Constitution" due to its sweeping impact on constitutional provisions.
  • Fundamental Duties:
    • Fundamental Duties were added to the Constitution through the 42nd Amendment under Article 51A.
    • Article 51A(g) specifically states that citizens must protect and improve the environment.
    • Fundamental Duties are non-enforceable but serve as moral obligations for Indian citizens.
  • Global Environmental Awareness:
    • The incorporation of environmental protection in the Indian Constitution was influenced by global movements like the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (1972) held in Stockholm.
    • India was one of the signatories to the Stockholm Declaration, which emphasized environmental conservation worldwide.
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