Which Article of the Constitution of India is associated with the protection and improvement of the environment and safeguarding of forests and wild life?

Correct option is B

• Article 48A of the Constitution of India is concerned with the protection and improvement of the environment, as well as the safeguarding of forests and wildlife.
• It mandates that the State shall endeavor to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country. This provision was added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.

• Article 48A specifically directs the State to ensure environmental protection as a duty of the government. It has been instrumental in the formulation of various environmental laws and policies in India.
• Article 51A (Option 4), though related to fundamental duties, includes the duty of every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment, but Article 48A lays down the responsibility of the State.

• Article 39 A: This article deals with equal justice and free legal aid, not with environmental protection.
• Article 43 A: This relates to the promotion of cottage industries, not environmental protection.
• Article 51 A: While this article includes fundamental duties, including protecting the environment, it is Article 48A that directly addresses the protection and improvement of the environment.