UPSC Prelims 2020 question on Welfare State Constitution

A welfare state is a concept of government where the state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of the economic and social well-being of its citizens. It is based on the principles of equality of opportunity, equitable distribution of wealth, and public responsibility for those unable to avail themselves of the minimal provisions for a good life.

The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) embody the concept of a 'welfare state'. The DPSPs, contained in Part IV (Articles 36–51) of the Constitution of India, lay down the guidelines for governance to be followed by the state. They direct the state to apply these principles in making laws to establish a just society.

The fact that the Preamble of the Constitution itself envisages India to be a 'socialist' state bears enough evidence for this.

Hence option (a) — Directive Principles of State Policy — is the correct answer.