The ideal of a welfare state is enshrined in the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) of the Constitution of India. The DPSPs are non-justiciable, meaning they cannot be enforced by courts, but they provide a framework for the government to establish social, economic, and political conditions necessary to ensure the welfare of the people.

The Constitution makers envisioned that the state would work towards creating a society that is more equal, just and compassionate by providing adequate resources and opportunities for its citizens to lead a decent life. The DPSPs lay down guidelines for the government to achieve these goals, including providing adequate food, clothing, housing, and medical care, promoting education and culture, protecting the environment, and promoting the welfare of women and children.

The Preamble to the Constitution, while not explicitly mentioning the welfare state, states that India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, and republic nation, which implies the government`s responsibility to promote social justice and the well-being of its citizens.