UPSC Prelims 2021 · Question 87 of 97

UPSC Prelims 2021 question on Definition of State

Which one of the following best defines the term 'State'?

  1. A community of persons permanently occupying a definite territory independent of external control and possessing an organized government
  2. A politically organized people of a definite territory and possessing an authority to govern them, maintain law and order, protect their natural rights and safeguard their means of sustenance
  3. A number of persons who have been living in a definite territory for a very long time with their own culture, tradition and government
  4. A society permanently living in a definite territory with a central authority, an executive responsible to the central authority and an independent judiciary
Show answer

Answer: A. A community of persons permanently occupying a definite territory independent of external control and possessing an organized government

State is a political organization of society. The state is a form of human association distinguished from other social groups based on its purpose of formation.

Following are the elements of a state:

1) People, i.e. the community of persons permanently living there.
2) Government
3) Territory: Demarcated boundary that separates one state from the other.
4) Sovereignty: It has independent say in all domestic and external decision making.

Thus, the 1st option is the correct answer.

More questions on Basic Concepts of Constitution

All 12 questions on Basic Concepts of Constitution →

← Full 2021 question paper · All Polity questions