Article 48 of Indian Constitution: Organisation of agriculture and animal husbandry.
Article 48 Organisation of agriculture and animal husbandry – Constitution Of India.
The State shall endeavour to organise agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines and shall, in particular, take steps for preserving and improving the breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter, of cows and calves and other milch and draught cattle Article 48A – Protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wild life The State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wild life of the country.
Here’s a simplified explanation of Articles 48 and 48A from the Constitution of India, along with a flowchart to visually represent them:
🐄🌾 Article 48 – Organisation of Agriculture & Animal Husbandry
✅ Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV)
The State shall endeavour to:
- Organise agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines.
- Preserve and improve the breeds of:
- Cows
- Calves
- Other milch (milk-giving) and draught cattle (used for labor).
- Prohibit slaughter of the above animals.
🌳🦜 Article 48A – Protection of Environment, Forests & Wildlife
✅ Added by 42nd Amendment (1976)
The State shall endeavour to:
- Protect and improve the environment.
- Safeguard:
- Forests
- Wildlife
Five FAQs on Article 48 of the Constitution of India
What does Article 48 refer to?
It directs the State to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines, focusing on preserving and improving livestock breeds and prohibiting the slaughter of cows, calves, and draught cattle.
Why focus on preserving cattle?
Cattle are crucial for agriculture, providing milk, labor, and fertilizer. Preserving them ensures sustainable farming and economic stability for rural areas.
Is Article 48 enforceable by law?
No, it is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy, which are guidelines, not laws that can be enforced in court.
Does Article 48 address animal welfare?
Yes, by protecting key animals like cows from slaughter, it indirectly promotes ethical treatment and animal welfare.
How has Article 48 influenced policies?
It has led to laws banning cow slaughter in many states and promoted improved animal husbandry and agricultural practices.
Flow Chart to Explain article 48 of Indian Constitution
