HPAS 2023 GS2 Question 2

HPAS 2023 Mains GS-2 Question 2

Describe the Article related to the promotion of international peace and security given in the Constitution.

Solution:

The promotion of international peace and security is enshrined in Article 51 of the Indian Constitution. It is the final article under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) and reflects the civilizational values of India, specifically the philosophy of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (The World is One Family).

1. Four Key Mandates of Article 51

Article 51 directs the State to strive for the following objectives:

• Promotion of Peace: To promote international peace and security.
• Just and Honourable Relations: To maintain just and honourable relations between nations.
• Respect for International Law: To foster respect for international law and treaty obligations in the dealings of organised peoples with one another.
• Arbitration: To encourage the settlement of international disputes by arbitration.

2. Influence on India’s Foreign Policy

Article 51 serves as the constitutional guiding light for India’s global conduct:

• Panchsheel: The Five Principles of Peaceful Co-existence (1954) were a direct practical application of Article 51.
• Non-Alignment Movement (NAM): India’s refusal to join military blocs during the Cold War was rooted in the pursuit of independent, peaceful relations.
• UN Peacekeeping: India is one of the largest contributors to UN Peacekeeping Operations, fulfilling its mandate to promote security globally.
• Rule of Law: India generally adheres to international treaties (like UNCLOS) and participates in global climate change agreements (Paris Agreement), upholding the spirit of fostering respect for international law.

3. Significance

While Directive Principles are non-justiciable (cannot be enforced by a court of law), Article 51 provides the moral and legal framework for the executive branch to formulate foreign policy. It ensures that India is viewed globally as a “Responsible Stakeholder” and a “Force for Global Peace.”

Concise Model Answer (150-Word Limit)

Article 51, under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV), is the constitutional cornerstone of India’s foreign policy. It mandates the State to strive for four primary objectives:

1. Promote international peace and security.
2. Maintain just and honourable relations between nations.
3. Foster respect for international law and treaty obligations.
4. Encourage the settlement of international disputes through arbitration.

This Article reflects India’s ancient ethos of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” and has historically shaped doctrines like Panchsheel and Non-Alignment. In the contemporary era, Article 51 guides India’s active role in UN Peacekeeping, its commitment to a “rules-based international order,” and its efforts in global climate diplomacy. Although non-justiciable, it ensures that the Indian State remains committed to being a peaceful, responsible, and law-abiding member of the international community.