Home The Constitution Part IV Article 36

Art. 36 Part IV: Directive Principles of State Policy

Definition of 'the State'

Exact text — Constitution of India

"In this Part, unless the context otherwise requires, ‘the State’ has the same meaning as in Part III."

In Plain English

What this Article actually means

A short cross-reference Article — it simply confirms that 'the State' means the same broad thing here (government, Parliament, State legislatures, local and statutory authorities) as it does in Part III's Fundamental Rights, so the Directive Principles that follow bind the same range of public bodies.

Why This Matters To You

How it shows up in everyday life

This ensures consistency — when you read that 'the State shall endeavour to secure...' something in the Articles that follow, it's the same wide range of government bodies covered by Article 12, not a narrower or different definition.

Read alongside this one

Art. 12 — Definition of 'the State'

Frequently Asked

Quick answers about Article 36

Why repeat this definition instead of just referring back to Article 12?

It's a standard drafting technique for clarity — Part IV is meant to be readable somewhat independently, so this Article makes the definition explicit rather than forcing a cross-reference.

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The text above reproduces Article 36 of the Constitution of India as amended to date, for general educational reference. It is public-domain legislative text, but we recommend cross-checking the authoritative version at legislative.gov.in or india.gov.in before relying on it for a legal matter. The explanation, examples and FAQs are general information, not legal advice — consult a qualified advocate for guidance on your specific situation.