Article 48A: Protection and improvement of environment and safeguarding of forests and wild life

Leading cases

• Vellore Citizens Welfare Forum v. Union of India (1996)The Court held that the precautionary principle and the polluter pays principle are part of Indian environmental law, and directed an authority under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 to assess and recover compensation from polluting tanneries in Tamil Nadu.

Questions on this article

8 questions in 10 of our papers cite Article 48A. Try these from the free papers:

1. 1. Article 39A of the Constitution (a Directive Principle) provides for:

   A.Uniform Civil CodeB.Free legal aidC.Right to workD.Protection of environment
   Show answer

2. 2. The provision that "the State shall endeavour to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wild life of the country" is found in which Part of the Constitution of India?

   A.Part IVA, which lists the Fundamental DutiesB.Part IV, the Directive Principles of State PolicyC.Part XIV, on services under the Union and StatesD.Part III, which guarantees the Fundamental Rights
   Show answer

3. 3. Consider the following statements: 1. Article 51A(g) makes it the duty of every citizen of India to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers and wild life. 2. Article 51A(g) also requires every citizen to have compassion for living creatures. 3. Article 48A, like Article 51A(g), casts its obligation on every citizen of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

   A.1 and 2 onlyB.1, 2 and 3C.2 and 3 onlyD.1 only
   Show answer