Article 36 — Definition

Article 36 defines 'the State' for the purposes of Part IV by incorporating the same definition used in Part III (Fundamental Rights). This means the Directive Principles apply to the central government, state governments, Parliament, state legislatures, and all local or other authorities within India or under its control.

Constitutional text

In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, 'the State' has the same meaning as in Part III.

Source: Constitution of India, as published by the Ministry of Law and Justice.

History and context

The Constituent Assembly chose to import the Article 12 definition of 'State' rather than invent a new one, ensuring internal consistency across Parts III and IV of the Constitution. This was a drafting convention that avoided ambiguity about which bodies were bound by the Directive Principles. The same comprehensive definition that makes the Fundamental Rights enforceable against all organs of government also makes the Directive Principles applicable to all of them.

Last reviewed: 3 July 2026

Article 36 — Definition

Constitutional text

History and context

Related articles