The Directive Principles of State Policy are certain moral principles in the nature of directions; instructions or recommendations to the Centre and State Governments. These are the basic Principles of Centre and State Governments. These principles lay stress on the establishment of social and economic democracy.

Importance: The importance of Directive Principles may be described that the Directive Principles are like the instruments of instructions. The ultimate object of the Directive Principles is to liberate the Indian masses in a positive sense. The basic objectives of Indian Constitution may be achieved by these Directive Principles of State Policy. These principles stand for a welfare state. Governments come and go. But one thing is important that any party may form the Government but clear cut aims and ideals are placed by the Directive Principles and the Government must act according to these guidelines.

Four Directive Principles: Articles 36 to 51 of the Constitution deal with Directive Principles. Five Directive Principles are given here.

(i) The state shall make provisions for securing just and human conditions of work and maternity relief.

(ii) The state shall endeavour to provide, within a period of ten years from the commencement of the Constitution, for free and compulsory education for all children upto the age of 14.

(iii) The ownership and control of the national resources of the community shall be distributed as best to subserve the common goal.

(iv) To take steps to secure the separation of the judiciary from the executive of the state.

(v) To promote international peace and security.