13 E. The welfare state in Nepal (the exam's Nepal paragraph)

1. Constitutional identity: Nepal is constitutionally a "socialism-oriented" state (Art. 4) — not Soviet socialism but the constitutional commitment to a welfare-oriented, equitable economy through democratic means. 2. Directive principles and policies (Art. 51): the state's duty to pursue development, inclusion and welfare — the constitutional core of welfarism. 3. Welfare as fundamental rights: education (Art. 31 — free and compulsory basic education), health (Art. 35 — free basic health services), food (Art. 36), housing (Art. 37), social justice (Art. 42), social security (Art. 43). 4. Legislation & programs: Social Security Act 2075 (contributory social security); Senior Citizens Act 2063 and old-age allowances; targeted programs for Karnali and remote districts; health insurance; Child Grant; Martyrs'/conflict-victims' provisions. 5. Federal service delivery: local governments (Schedule 8: basic health, basic education, local development) as the welfare state's front line. 6. Honest assessment for exams: a poor state with rich constitutional welfare promises — implementation gap, fiscal limits, and dependence on remittances define Nepal's welfare-state debate.