Protection of monuments

Also called: Article 49 · Topic: Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 10 "The Constitution of India: An Introduction"

Meaning

Article 49 is a Directive Principle. It asks the State to protect monuments, places and objects of artistic or historic interest that Parliament declares to be of national importance. The State must keep them from being damaged, destroyed, removed or taken out of the country. It is one of the liberal-intellectual principles and helps keep India's heritage safe for future generations. Class 7 NCERT includes it among the directives.

Example

Parliament gave effect to Article 49 through the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act 1958. This law protects sites and monuments declared to be of national importance.

Don't confuse with

• Article 51A(f): this is a fundamental duty of citizens to value and preserve our composite culture, which means the shared culture that many communities built together. Article 49 is a duty of the State, not of citizens.

Related concepts

• Liberal-intellectual principles
• Early childhood care and education
• Protection of environment and wildlife
• Separation of judiciary from executive
• Promotion of international peace and security
• Directives outside Part IV

Read more

• Liberal-intellectual directives, amendments and directives outside Part IV