Question

Which Article of the Indian Constitution imposes a responsibility upon the State to take steps to prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves, milch and draught cattle?

• A. Article 49
• B. Article 50
• C. Article 51
• D. Article 48

Hint:

Article 48 emphasizes the protection of animals and promotes the well-being of livestock as an important aspect of state policy.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Article 48 of the Indian Constitution imposes a responsibility upon the State to take steps to prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves, milch, and draught cattle, and to improve the breeds of these animals.

Answer 2

Article 48 of the Indian Constitution imposes a responsibility on the State to take steps for organizing agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines. It specifically directs the State to take measures for preserving and improving the breeds of cattle and prohibits the slaughter of cows, calves, and other milch and draught cattle.

Text of Article 48:
"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."

This Article is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) of the Constitution. Although these principles are not justiciable (i.e., not enforceable by courts), they are fundamental in the governance of the country and aim to guide the State in the formulation of policies and laws.

The inclusion of this Article reflects the significance of cattle in Indian society, particularly in the agricultural economy and cultural context. It provides a constitutional basis for laws in various states that ban or regulate cow slaughter.

Conclusion:
The correct answer is Article 48, which places a constitutional duty upon the State to prohibit the slaughter of cows, calves, and other useful cattle.