- Statement (i) is not the primary defining characteristic: While political rights are important, a Welfare State primarily focuses on the socio-economic well- being of its citizens rather than explicitly promoting 'political wellbeing' as its core definition. - Statement (ii) is correct: A fundamental aspect of a Welfare State is its commitment to protecting and promoting the social well-being of its citizens through social safety nets, healthcare, education, etc. - Statement (iii) is correct: Welfare states aim to provide a basic standard of living and access to essential services, thereby promoting equality of opportunity by mitigating disparities caused by socio-economic background. - Statement (iv) is incorrect: A Welfare State aims to reduce income inequality and promote equitable distribution of resources, but achieving 'equal distribution of wealth' is typically associated with more radical ideologies like communism, not the standard concept of a Welfare State.