The correct option defines a ‘State’ as it encapsulates the essential elements that constitute statehood: a permanent population, defined territory, organized government, and sovereignty. These elements are crucial in distinguishing a state from other political entities, as they emphasize the state's ability to govern itself independently and maintain order within its borders. This definition aligns with the analytical frameworks found in standard UPSC-level resources, such as the NCERT textbooks, which underscore these characteristics as foundational to the understanding of political organization and governance.