Question

Discuss the role of the state in contemporary period.

1. Governance
2. Economic development
3. Welfare
4. Nation building
5. Peace and Order

Answer 1

The values of nationalism, secularism, and democracy and goals of economic development and social change are the ones that determine the role of the State. This role may be described as follows:

1. Governance: Involvement of the members of the society in the decision-making process of the state is good governance. This is sometimes referred to as ‘democratisation’ or the creation of a ‘participatory state’.
2. Economic Development: The State is expected to intervene in the economic life for the purpose of promoting industrial and agricultural growth and economic development. Economic stability and growth would ensure the economic well-being of the people. This does not imply creating a Socialist System and Planning. It implies that the State must be a facilitator of economic development.
3. Welfare: This refers to the application of the principles of social justice, fairness and equality. The State is expected to rectify the imbalances in the society so that the marginalised sections of the society do not suffer.
4. Nation Building: This refers to the problem of ensuring that the diversity in a society does not lead to disintegration of the State. Nation Building is closely associated with the idea of national integration.
5. Peace and Order: The State ensures peace and order in the society. The core purpose of the State is protection. This role has also been described as ‘state building’. The survival of the political system may be threatened from international or domestic environment. The maintenance of security and survival of the state, its constitution and political order is one of the key roles of the State.