Explanation
- A
Preamble
The Preamble states justice, equality and related ideals, but the operational ‘welfare State’ programme—livelihood, health, education, living wage—is elaborated in the Directive Principles. This option is not the key.
- B
Directive Principles of State Policy
Part IV Directive Principles of State Policy commit the State to social and economic welfare: adequate livelihood, equal pay, public health, education, nutrition and reduction of inequality. That is the constitutional home of the welfare-State ideal. This option is the official key.
- C
Fundamental Rights
Fundamental Rights are primarily civil-political guarantees (with some socio-economic content such as 21 and 21A). They are not the charter of the welfare State as a whole. This option is therefore wrong.
- D
Seventh Schedule
The Seventh Schedule distributes legislative subjects; it does not enshrine the welfare-State ideal. This option is not the key.
Summary. Official key is (b) Directive Principles of State Policy. Article 38 asks the State to secure a social order for welfare. Preamble ideals are prefatory; rights are justiciable limits; the Seventh Schedule is a list of heads of law. Granville Austin’s ‘common social revolution’ reading points to Part IV. Only DPSPs fit.
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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2020 · Q12 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which part of the Constitution of India declares the ideal of Welfare State? -
2026 · Q23 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which of the following best explain(s) the rationale for protecting mangrove ecosystems in the context of climate resilience? 1. Mangroves reduce tidal energy and store freshwater, making them ideal sites for paddy cultivation in saline estuarine belts. 2. Their salt-sensitive roots filter seawater, making mangroves key to converting coastal land into freshwater aquaculture zones. 3. By withstanding tidal surges and offering biomass resources, mangroves function both as natural bio-shields and livelihood bases for rural communities. Select the answer using the code given below: