Question

Which Article contains clear directives related to primary education?
“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 till the age of fourteen years.”

• A. Article 41
• B. Article 42
• C. Article 46
• D. Article 45

Hint:

Article 45 (old) → primary education (6–14 years) Article 21A (new) → Fundamental Right to education after 86th Amendment (2002)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV of the Indian Constitution) guide the state in social and economic policymaking. Article 45 originally focused on universal elementary education.

Step 1: Original constitutional provision Article 45 originally stated that the State shall provide free and compulsory education for children up to

14 years within 10 years of the Constitution’s commencement.

Step 2: Constitutional amendment After the

86th Constitutional Amendment Act (2002):

• Education for ages 6–14 became a Fundamental Right under Article 21A.

• Article 45 was modified to focus on early childhood care (0–6 years).

Step 3: Evaluating options

• Article 41: Employment, education, assistance

• Article 42: Working conditions and maternity relief

• Article 46: Welfare of SC/ST and weaker sections

• Article 45: Primary education (original provision)
Thus, Article 45 is correct.