1. Introduction: The Indian Constitution’s objectives are derived from the Preamble and Directive Principles, guiding governance and law.
2. Main Body: The Preamble specifies justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Directive Principles, categorised into socialistic, Gandhian, and liberal-intellectual, aim for a welfare state, holding moral authority.
3. Conclusion: The Constitution balances Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, ensuring comprehensive governance, affirmed by the Minerva Mills case.

Ans. The Indian Constitution outlines several key objectives that guide the governance and legal framework of the country. These objectives are primarily derived from the Preamble and the Directive Principles of State Policy.

Preamble of the Constitution

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reveals four main components that makes the chief objectives:

1. Source of Authority: The Constitution derives its authority from the people of India.

2. Nature of the Indian State: It declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, and republic.

3. Objectives of the Constitution: It specifies justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as the core objectives.

4. Date of Adoption: The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949.

Objectives as Specified in the Preamble

1. Justice: Social, economic, and political justice for all citizens.

2. Liberty: Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship.

3. Equality: Equality of status and opportunity, and to promote among them all.

4. Fraternity: Assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation.

Directive Principles of State Policy

According to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the Directive Principles of State Policy are a ‘novel feature’ of the Indian Constitution. They are mentioned in Part IV of the Constitution and can be classified into three broad categories:

1. Socialist Principles: Aimed at promoting social and economic democracy.

2. Gandhian Principles: Inspired by the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, focusing on promoting cottage industries, living wages, and the organisation of village panchayats.

3. Liberal-Intellectual Principles: Emphasising the importance of a uniform civil code, free legal aid, and the separation of judiciary from the executive.

The Directive Principles seek to establish a ‘welfare state’ in India. Although they are non-justiciable, meaning they are not enforceable by the courts, they impose a moral obligation on the state authorities for their application.

In the Minerva Mills case (1980), the Supreme Court held that ‘the Indian Constitution is based on the balance between the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles.’