UPSC Prelims 2006 Q8: Indian Polity – Directive Principles Of State Policy
Consider the following statements:
1. There is no provision in the Constitution of India to encourage equal pay for equal work for
both men and women.
2. The Constitution of India does not define backward classes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b) 2 only
Explanation
Equal pay and backward classes in the Constitution
| Statement | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1. No provision encourages equal pay for equal work for men and women | False | Article 39(d), a Directive Principle, requires equal pay for equal work for both men and women |
| 2. The Constitution does not define backward classes | True | Articles 15(4), 16(4) and 340 use the term but never define it |
So only statement 2 is correct.
Answer: (b) 2 only.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false, since Article 39(d) provides for equal pay for equal work for men and women.
- (b) CORRECT. Only statement 2 is true; the Constitution uses 'backward classes' without defining it.
- (c) Incorrect. Statement 1 is false, so both cannot be correct.
- (d) Incorrect. Statement 2 is true, so it is not 'neither'.
Key point
Article 39(d) directs equal pay for equal work for men and women, while 'backward classes' is used in Articles 15(4), 16(4) and 340 but never defined.
Remember
Article 39(d): equal pay for equal work; 'backward classes' is not defined.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting that Directive Principles such as Article 39(d) are also constitutional provisions.
- Assuming the Constitution defines backward classes; commissions have interpreted it.
- Confusing Fundamental Rights with Directive Principles when asked about 'provisions'.
Exam tip
Equal pay for equal work for men and women is Article 39(d), a Directive Principle.
Sources
- Constitution of India — Articles 39(d), 15(4), 16(4), 340
- M. Laxmikanth — Indian Polity (Directive Principles of State Policy)
- NCERT Class XI Political Science — Indian Constitution at Work — Rights in the Indian Constitution