Welfare state

this explain welfare state concept

1. Welfare State By Mahesh Jaiwantrao Patil M.A. (Political Science), M.Phil , NET, SET, & Ph.D (Pursuing) Assistant Professor, Narayanrao Chavan Law College, Nanded, Maharashtra, India. Cell No ([phone]

2. Object of the Chapter To understand meaning & definition. To understand nature and significance. To explain functions of Welfare State.

3. Introduction In olden times, the state was a ‘police-state’ i.e., the governments had to perform the sovereign functions along with the establishment of public safety and security, administration of justice and collection of taxes and these formed the primary duties of every government. But democracy changed the role and functions of the government. Today, the concept of 'welfare states' have redefined the meaning of democracy.  As a result of the socio-economic and political changes, things have changed and the concept of state has also changed to give way for the principle of ‘welfare state'. In modern times, the responsibilities and functions of governments have increased beyond limits.

4. Definition There is no agreed definition of the concept of welfare state. T. W. Kent : “A state that provides for its citizens a wide range of social services." G.D.H. Cole:- The welfare state is a society in which an assured minimum standard of living and opportunity becomes the possession of every citizen.“ Hobman : “The welfare state as a compromise between communism on the one side and unbridled individualism on the other. It guarantees a minimum standard of subsistence without removing incentives to private enterprise”.

5. Meaning It is a concept of government in which the state plays a key role in the protection and promotion of economic and social well-being of its citizens. A welfare state is based on the principles of equality of opportunity and equitable distribution of wealth. It also focuses on the governmental responsibility for those who are unable to avail themselves of the minimal provisions of a good life. Under this system, the welfare of its citizens is the responsibility of the state. The welfare state involves a transfer of funds from the state, to the services provided (healthcare, education & etc.) as well as directly to individuals (beneficiaries).

6. A welfare state is a state or a government meant for the welfare, or the well-being of the people. In other words, it is a government which primarily aims at the 'welfare' of the people. A welfare state takes the responsibility of the welfare and the economic and social wellbeing of its citizens. Welfare implies the benefits or different modes of aid provided to the people. It can be in terms of money or services. Cash payments, subsidies, concessions, grants and public distribution come under the term welfare. All these welfare measures amount to the redistribution of governmental revenue to the needy

7. CHARACTERISTICS Of welfare State Ensures social security:- In a welfare state of economy, though the traits of capitalism are also seen, it is mainly a mixed economy. Even when a combination of capitalistic and socialistic features exists, the government plays a dominant role in controlling the economic activities and in the social welfare of the people.  Socialistic in nature:- It is based on the principles of equality and is keen to provide equal opportunity to all. It also aims to ensure equitable distribution of wealth. Control over all the economic activities . In a welfare state, all the private enterprises are regulated by the government.

8. Provide basic facilities to its citizens:- A welfare government is keen in providing economic and social services such as general education, public health, public transport, housing, and other financial assistance to its people. Runs various enterprises:- Ownership and operation of industrial enterprises, business and other commercial activities are also done by welfare governments. Justice to all:- In a welfare state, common man has to deal with the authorities for many of their needs. For example; administrative officers, controlling officers, sanctioning authorities, officers of social services, executives of public sector undertakings etc. In all such dealings, a welfare state has the responsibility to ensure justice and fulfillment of their requirements. 

9. Planning of activities:- Economic activities include production and distribution. It is the duty of the welfare state to formulate national policies and to plan every economic activity in a balanced manner. Industrial policy, trade policy, commercial and banking policy etc are framed in order to control those activities. Regulate and control:- I t regulate & controls all private enterprises engaged in economic activities. Such control includes registration, licensing, taxation etc. Welfare of labourers :- It makes legislations to prevent exploitation of workers, and to ensure the security and welfare of those who work in industrial enterprises, factories, companies and all other sectors of employment

10. Functions of Welfare state To Protect life and property. To Protect from external invasion. To Maintain of law and order. To maintain diplomatic relations with other countries. Judicial administration. To spread education. Social economic security. To Eradicate poverty. To improve health. Moral and social reforms.

11. To provide recreational facilities. To provide public utility services. To develop agriculture sector. To make regulations regarding trade and industries. Maximum use of natural resources. To make regulations regarding export and import. To make regulations about labour . To impose and collect taxes.