Article 47 of Indian Constitution, Interpretation, Importance

Article 47 of Indian Constitution, falling under the Directive Principles of State Policy, places a responsibility on the State to work towards improving public health, raising nutritional standards, and enhancing the overall standard of living. It further directs the State to take measures to prohibit the consumption of intoxicating drinks and harmful drugs, except when required for medicinal purposes. This provision reflects the constitutional vision of promoting a healthier society and underscores the State’s role in safeguarding public well-being.

Article 47 of Indian Constitution

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.

Article 47 of Indian Constitution Interpretation

The core aim of Article 47 of Indian Constitution is to ensure that the State actively advances public welfare by improving nutrition, raising living standards, and strengthening public health, while regulating the use of harmful substances.

In line with this directive, the State is expected to formulate and implement policies that:

• Enhance the nutritional intake of the population

• Promote food security

• Improve living conditions to ensure a better quality of life

• Strengthen preventive healthcare, disease control, and public health infrastructure

• Ensure equitable access to medical services

Article 47 calls upon the State to restrict the production, sale, and consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs, except when required for medicinal purposes.

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Article 47 of Indian Constitution Judicial Pronouncements

The Supreme Court, in State of Kerala v. N. M. Thomas (1976), emphasized the importance of the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs) in guiding the State’s governance objectives. The judgment underscored their role in promoting public welfare and shaping the policy framework of the nation.

In Vincent Panikurlangara v. Union of India (1987), the Court reaffirmed the State’s responsibility under Article 47 to safeguard public health. It stressed the necessity of adopting regulatory measures to control the production, distribution, and consumption of substances harmful to health.