The term “socialistic” in the preamble of the Indian Constitution is indeed relevant in today’s politics. Although it was not part of the original constitution, the 42nd Amendment in 1976 incorporated it to reflect the government’s priority on economic planning and social justice . This addition signifies India’s commitment to a mixed economy, where both public and private sectors coexist, ensuring the state’s responsibility to maintain key social infrastructure and care for the poor.
In practice, India’s socialist model has evolved, shifting towards liberalism since the 1991 economic liberalization . However, the concept remains essential for a country with a vast population living below the poverty line. India’s public distribution system, the largest in the world, exemplifies this socialist approach.
*Key aspects of socialism in India:*
– _Economic planning_: India adopted a top-down, five-year planning approach, similar to the Soviet model, to address poverty and redistribute wealth.
– _Mixed economy_: Public and private sectors coexist, with the state playing a crucial role in key social infrastructure and poverty alleviation.
– _Social justice_: The Directive Principles of State Policy emphasize social justice, equitable resource distribution, fair work conditions, and equal pay.
While scholars debate the effectiveness of India’s socialist model, its relevance endures, particularly in addressing socio-economic disparities. The inclusion of “socialistic” in the preamble serves as a guiding principle for policymakers, ensuring that India’s growth is inclusive and equitable.