Short questions with answers for Class 11 CHSE Odisha students on Sectoral Development, covering Agriculture, Industry, Infrastructure, and Foreign Trade.

 

Chapter: Sectoral Development

Topic: Agriculture – Importance, low productivity and its causes, Green Revolution, present agricultural situation.

Importance of Agriculture

 

Q1: Why is agriculture considered the backbone of the Indian economy?

A1: Agriculture is considered the backbone because it provides food security, raw materials for industries, employment to a large population, and contributes significantly to the national income.

 

Q2: How does agriculture contribute to national income?

A2: Agriculture contributes to national income by producing food grains, cash crops, and livestock products, which are sold in domestic and international markets.

 

Q3: Mention one-way agriculture provides raw materials.

A3: Agriculture provides raw materials like cotton for textile mills, sugarcane for sugar factories, and jute for jute industries.

 

Q4: What is the primary role of agriculture in terms of food?

A4: The primary role of agriculture is to ensure food security for the entire population.

 

Q5: How does agriculture help in poverty reduction?

A5: Agriculture helps in poverty reduction by providing employment and income opportunities to a large segment of the rural population.

 

Q6: Name a major sector that depends on agriculture for its growth.

A6: The industrial sector, particularly agro-based industries, heavily depends on agriculture for raw materials.

 

Q7: What percentage of India's population is still dependent on agriculture for livelihood (approximate)?

A7: Approximately 50-60% of India's population is still dependent on agriculture for their livelihood, directly or indirectly.

 

Q8: How does agricultural surplus aid economic development?

A8: Agricultural surplus aids economic development by allowing for exports, earning foreign exchange, and providing food for the growing urban population.

 

Q9: Give one example of a cash crop.

A9: Sugarcane, cotton, jute, and tobacco are examples of cash crops.

 

Q10: What is the significance of agriculture in terms of rural employment?

A10: Agriculture is the largest employer in rural areas, providing direct and indirect employment to a significant portion of the rural workforce.

 

Low Productivity and its Causes

 

Q1: Define agricultural productivity.

A1: Agricultural productivity refers to the output per unit of input, such as output per hectare of land or output per worker.

 

Q2: Name one major cause of low agricultural productivity in India.

A2: One major cause is over-dependence on monsoon rains, leading to rain-fed agriculture.

 

Q3: How do small and fragmented landholdings affect productivity?

A3: Small and fragmented landholdings make it difficult to adopt modern farming techniques, mechanization, and efficient irrigation, leading to lower productivity.

 

Q4: What is the impact of a lack of irrigation facilities on agriculture?

A4: Lack of irrigation facilities makes agriculture vulnerable to droughts and irregular rainfall, leading to crop failures and low yields.

 

Q5: How does the use of traditional farming methods contribute to low productivity?

A5: Traditional farming methods often involve outdated tools, seeds, and practices that result in lower yields compared to modern, scientific methods.

 

Q6: Explain the role of inadequate credit facilities in low productivity.

A6: Inadequate credit facilities prevent farmers from investing in quality seeds, fertilizers, machinery, and irrigation, thus limiting their ability to improve productivity.

 

Q7: What is disguised unemployment in agriculture?

A7: Disguised unemployment in agriculture refers to a situation where more people are employed than are actually needed, meaning the marginal productivity of some workers is zero or near zero.

 

Q8: How does soil degradation affect agricultural output?

A8: Soil degradation, due to erosion, nutrient depletion, or salinity, reduces soil fertility and thus directly impacts agricultural output and productivity.

 

Q9: Mention one socio-economic factor contributing to low productivity.

A9: Illiteracy among farmers, lack of awareness about modern techniques, and poverty are socio-economic factors contributing to low productivity.

 

Q10: What is the impact of poor marketing and storage facilities on farmers?

A10: Poor marketing and storage facilities lead to post-harvest losses, distress sales, and lower returns for farmers, discouraging them from investing in productivity-enhancing measures.

 

Green Revolution

 

Q1: What was the primary objective of the Green Revolution in India?

A1: The primary objective of the Green Revolution was to achieve self-sufficiency in food grain production by increasing agricultural productivity.

 

Q2: Which two main crops were primarily targeted during the Green Revolution?

A2: Wheat and rice were the two main crops primarily targeted during the Green Revolution.

 

Q3: Name one key technological input that was central to the Green Revolution.

A3: High Yielding Variety (HYV) seeds were a central technological input.

 

Q4: When did the Green Revolution largely take place in India?

A4: The Green Revolution largely took place in India during the mid-1960s.

 

Q5: Who is known as the "Father of the Green Revolution" in India?

A5: M.S. Swaminathan is known as the "Father of the Green Revolution" in India.

 

Q6: What role did chemical fertilizers play in the Green Revolution?

A6: Chemical fertilizers were used extensively to provide essential nutrients to HYV crops, boosting their growth and yield.

 

Q7: How did irrigation facilities contribute to the success of the Green Revolution?

A7: Reliable irrigation facilities were crucial for the successful growth of HYV seeds, which require controlled water supply.

 

Q8: Mention one positive impact of the Green Revolution on food security.

A8: The Green Revolution led to a significant increase in food grain production, making India self-sufficient and preventing widespread famine.

 

Q9: What was one criticism or negative consequence of the Green Revolution?

A9: One criticism was that it increased regional disparities (benefiting only certain regions) and income inequalities among farmers. Also, it led to environmental concerns due to overuse of chemicals.

 

Q10: How did the Green Revolution impact farmers' incomes in the beneficiary regions?

A10: The Green Revolution significantly increased the income of farmers in the beneficiary regions due to higher yields and marketable surplus.

 

Present Agricultural Situation

 

Q1: What is the current trend in the share of agriculture in India's GDP?

A1: The share of agriculture in India's GDP has been steadily declining over the years, though it still remains a significant contributor.

 

Q2: Are most Indian farmers still dependent on the monsoon?

A2: Yes, a significant portion of Indian agriculture is still dependent on the monsoon, though irrigation coverage has increased.

 

Q3: Name one major challenge faced by Indian agriculture today.

A3: Major challenges include climate change, fragmented landholdings, low public and private investment, and volatile market prices.

 

Q4: What is the concept of agricultural diversification?

A4: Agricultural diversification means shifting from traditional cereal cultivation to high-value crops like fruits, vegetables, flowers, or to allied activities like dairy and fisheries.

 

Q5: How is climate change impacting Indian agriculture?

A5: Climate change is leading to more frequent extreme weather events like droughts, floods, and unseasonal rains, affecting crop yields and agricultural patterns.

 

Q6: What is the role of technology in improving the present agricultural situation?

A6: Technology, such as precision agriculture, drones, better forecasting, and digital platforms, can improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance productivity.

 

Q7: Mention one government initiative to support farmers' income.

A7: Government initiatives include PM-KISAN, Minimum Support Price (MSP) schemes, and crop insurance schemes (e.g., PMFBY).

 

Q8: What is the current status of agricultural exports from India?

A8: India is a significant agricultural exporter, with exports including rice, spices, cotton, and various other agricultural products.

 

Q9: How do issues related to agricultural marketing affect farmers' profitability?

Q9: Issues like inadequate storage, poor transport, and limited access to organized markets often force farmers to sell their produce at low prices, reducing profitability.

 

Q10: What is the significance of organic farming in the present context?

A10: Organic farming is gaining significance due to increasing awareness about environmental sustainability, soil health, and consumer demand for chemical-free food.

 

Topic: Industry – Importance, Industrial Policies – 1948,1956, 1991.

Importance of Industry

 

Q1: Why is industrial development crucial for economic growth?

A1: Industrial development is crucial for economic growth as it creates employment, adds value to raw materials, promotes exports, and enhances national income.

 

Q2: How does industry contribute to employment generation?

A2: Industry creates direct employment in factories and indirect employment in ancillary services like transport, marketing, and raw material supply.

 

Q3: What is the role of industry in modernizing agriculture?

A3: Industry provides essential inputs for agriculture such as fertilizers, pesticides, farm machinery (tractors, tillers), and irrigation equipment, leading to agricultural modernization.

 

Q4: How does industrialization lead to urbanization?

A4: Industrialization leads to urbanization as people migrate from rural areas to industrial centers in search of employment and better living standards.

 

Q5: Mention one way industry helps in earning foreign exchange.

A5: Industry helps in earning foreign exchange by producing goods for export, thereby contributing to the country's balance of payments.

 

Q6: What is the significance of the industrial sector in terms of technological advancement?

A6: The industrial sector drives technological advancement through research and development, innovation, and adoption of new production methods.

 

Q7: How does the industrial sector support the defense sector?

A7: The industrial sector produces various equipment, machinery, and technologies necessary for national defense.

 

Q8: What is the concept of forward and backward linkages in industry?

A8: Forward linkages refer to an industry's output serving as input for another industry, while backward linkages refer to an industry sourcing inputs from other industries.

 

Q9: How does industrial development impact the standard of living?

A9: Industrial development improves the standard of living by providing a wider range of goods and services, creating income opportunities, and improving infrastructure.

 

Q10: Why is a strong industrial base important for a nation's self-reliance?

A10: A strong industrial base reduces a nation's dependence on imports for essential goods and technologies, thereby promoting self-reliance and national security.

 

Industrial Policy – 1948

 

Q1: What was the main objective of the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) of 1948?

A1: The main objective was to establish a mixed economy, giving a significant role to the public sector while also allowing private enterprise.

 

Q2: Which sector was given a dominant role in the IPR 1948?

A2: The public sector was given a dominant role, especially in strategic and heavy industries.

 

Q3: How many categories of industries were identified in IPR 1948?

A3: Four categories of industries were identified.

 

Q4: Which industries were reserved exclusively for state monopoly under IPR 1948?

A4: Industries like arms and ammunition, atomic energy, and railway transport were reserved exclusively for state monopoly.

 

Q5: What was the role assigned to the private sector under IPR 1948?

A5: The private sector was allowed to operate in other industries, but their activities were subject to state regulation and control.

 

Q6: What was the long-term goal of the IPR 1948 regarding industrialization?

A6: The long-term goal was to achieve rapid industrialization and reduce dependence on foreign goods.

 

Q7: Did the IPR 1948 promote foreign investment extensively?

A7: No, the IPR 1948 was cautious about foreign investment, preferring indigenous development.

 

Q8: What was the approach of IPR 1948 towards cottage and small-scale industries?

A8: IPR 1948 recognized the importance of cottage and small-scale industries for employment generation.

 

Q9: What was the overall philosophy behind the IPR 1948?

A9: The overall philosophy was to achieve socialist patterns of society with state control over key sectors.

 

Q10: How did the IPR 1948 aim to balance public and private sector roles?

A10: It aimed to balance by reserving strategic industries for the public sector while allowing private sector participation in other areas, albeit with state guidance.

 

Industrial Policy – 1956

 

Q1: Why was the Industrial Policy Resolution (IPR) of 1956 considered a more comprehensive policy than 1948?

A1: IPR 1956 was more comprehensive as it explicitly laid down the framework for India's mixed economy and emphasized the role of the public sector.

 

Q2: How many schedules were established for industries in IPR 1956?

A2: Three schedules were established for industries.

 

Q3: Which schedule in IPR 1956 listed industries exclusively reserved for the public sector?

A3: Schedule A listed industries exclusively reserved for the public sector.

 

Q4: Name one industry that was exclusively reserved for the public sector under IPR 1956.

A4: Arms and ammunition, atomic energy, iron and steel, heavy electricals, etc., were reserved for the public sector.

 

Q5: What was the role of the private sector in industries listed under Schedule B of IPR 1956?

A5: Schedule B industries were those where the state would progressively establish new units, but private enterprises were also expected to supplement the efforts of the state.

 

Q6: What was the general approach of IPR 1956 towards foreign capital?

A6: While generally preferring indigenous capital, IPR 1956 recognized the need for foreign capital and technology but under strict state control.

 

Q7: How did IPR 1956 view the role of cottage and small-scale industries?

A7: IPR 1956 stressed the importance of cottage and small-scale industries for employment and regional development.

 

Q8: What was the main philosophy guiding the IPR 1956?

A8: The main philosophy was to accelerate the rate of economic growth and to speed up industrialization, with an emphasis on the 'socialist pattern of society'.

 

Q9: What was the impact of IPR 1956 on industrial licensing?

A9: IPR 1956 strengthened the industrial licensing system, where private companies needed licenses to set up or expand units.

 

Q10: How did the IPR 1956 aim to reduce regional disparities?

A10: It aimed to reduce regional disparities by promoting industrial development in backward areas.

 

Industrial Policy – 1991

 

Q1: What was the primary reason for the introduction of the Industrial Policy (IP) of 1991?

A1: The primary reason was a severe economic crisis in India, necessitating economic reforms, liberalization, and globalization.

 

Q2: What were the three main pillars of the IP 1991?

A2: The three main pillars were Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG).

 

Q3: How did the IP 1991 change the industrial licensing system?

A3: It abolished industrial licensing for most industries, except for a few strategic and hazardous ones.

 

Q4: What was the impact of IP 1991 on the public sector?

A4: It drastically reduced the number of industries reserved for the public sector and encouraged privatization and disinvestment of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

 

Q5: How did the IP 1991 promote foreign direct investment (FDI)?

A5: It opened up many sectors for automatic approval of FDI, raising the equity limits for foreign investors.

 

Q6: What was the role of the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices (MRTP) Act after IP 1991?

A6: The MRTP Act was largely diluted, and eventually replaced by the Competition Act, promoting competition rather than controlling monopolies.

 

Q7: How did IP 1991 affect import duties and tariffs?

A7: It significantly reduced import duties and tariffs to facilitate greater integration with the global economy.

 

Q8: What was the objective of the IP 1991 regarding technology transfer?

A8: The objective was to encourage the inflow of foreign technology to modernize Indian industries and enhance their competitiveness.

 

Q9: Name one industry that remained under licensing after IP 1991.

A9: Alcoholic drinks, tobacco, hazardous chemicals, defense equipment, and industrial explosives remained under licensing.

 

Q10: What was the overall impact of IP 1991 on the Indian economy?

A10: It led to higher economic growth, increased competition, greater foreign investment, and integration of the Indian economy with the global economy.

 

Topic: Infrastructure - Role, Economic Infrastructure (Energy, Transport, and Communications) and Social Infrastructure (Education and Health)

Role of Infrastructure

 

Q1: Define infrastructure in an economic context.

A1: Infrastructure refers to the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, power supplies) needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

 

Q2: Why is robust infrastructure considered essential for economic development?

A2: Robust infrastructure reduces production costs, facilitates trade, attracts investment, enhances productivity, and improves the overall quality of life.

 

Q3: How does good infrastructure impact foreign investment?

A3: Good infrastructure attracts foreign investment by providing a reliable and efficient environment for businesses to operate, reducing their operational costs.

 

Q4: Mention one way infrastructure helps in poverty reduction.

A4: Infrastructure helps in poverty reduction by creating employment opportunities, improving access to markets for goods and services, and enhancing the quality of social services.

 

Q5: What is the relationship between infrastructure and human capital development?

A5: Good social infrastructure, such as education and health facilities, is crucial for human capital development, which in turn boosts productivity and economic growth.

 

Q6: How does efficient transport infrastructure benefit trade?

A6: Efficient transport infrastructure reduces the time and cost of moving goods, facilitating both domestic and international trade.

 

Q7: What role does energy infrastructure play in industrial growth?

A7: Reliable and affordable energy (electricity, oil, gas) is vital for powering factories, machinery, and production processes, thus directly supporting industrial growth.

 

Q8: How does communication infrastructure contribute to economic efficiency?

A8: Communication infrastructure (internet, telecom) enables faster information exchange, improves market access, facilitates e-commerce, and enhances business efficiency.

 

Q9: Give an example of how infrastructure can reduce regional disparities.

A9: By building roads, railways, and communication networks in remote or backward regions, infrastructure can connect them to mainstream economic activities, reducing disparities.

 

Q10: What is the long-term benefit of investing in infrastructure?

A10: The long-term benefit is sustainable economic growth, improved living standards, enhanced competitiveness, and a more resilient economy.

 

Economic Infrastructure (Energy, Transport, and Communications)

 

Q1: What are the three main components of economic infrastructure?

A1: The three main components are Energy, Transport, and Communications.

 

Q2: Why is energy considered a critical component of economic infrastructure?

A2: Energy is critical because it powers industries, agriculture, households, and transport systems, driving almost all economic activities.

 

Q3: Name two major sources of energy in India.

A3: Coal, petroleum, natural gas, hydro-power, solar, and wind energy are major sources.

 

Q4: How does an inadequate transport system hinder economic growth?

A4: An inadequate transport system increases costs of production and distribution, delays delivery, and limits market access, thus hindering economic growth.

 

Q5: What are the different modes of transport that constitute economic infrastructure?

A5: Roads, railways, waterways (inland and sea), and airways are the different modes of transport.

 

Q6: How do communication systems contribute to economic development?

A6: Communication systems facilitate business transactions, enable e-governance, support e-commerce, and provide access to information, boosting economic development.

 

Q7: Give an example of how digital communication infrastructure impacts the service sector.

A7: Digital communication infrastructure enables call centers, IT services, and remote work, driving growth in the service sector.

 

Q8: What is the significance of port infrastructure for foreign trade?

A8: Port infrastructure is crucial for efficient handling of imports and exports, facilitating international trade and reducing logistics costs.

 

Q9: How does grid connectivity in energy systems benefit the economy?

A9: Grid connectivity ensures efficient distribution of electricity, reduces transmission losses, and improves energy access across regions.

 

Q10: Why is investment in high-speed internet considered essential for modern economies?

A10: High-speed internet is essential for digital transformation, supporting innovation, improving productivity, and fostering a knowledge-based economy.

 

Social Infrastructure (Education and Health)

 

Q1: What are the two main components of social infrastructure?

A1: The two main components are Education and Health.

 

Q2: Why is investment in education considered vital for a nation's development?

A2: Investment in education enhances human capital, improves productivity, fosters innovation, and promotes social mobility.

 

Q3: How does a literate and skilled workforce contribute to economic growth?

A3: A literate and skilled workforce can adopt new technologies, work more efficiently, and innovate, leading to higher productivity and economic growth.

 

Q4: What is the impact of poor health infrastructure on a country's workforce?

A4: Poor health infrastructure leads to a less productive and frequently ill workforce, resulting in lower output and higher healthcare costs.

 

Q5: Mention one benefit of public health programs for the economy.

A5: Public health programs reduce the burden of diseases, improve life expectancy, and ensure a healthier and more productive workforce.

 

Q6: How does access to quality healthcare affect human development indicators?

A6: Access to quality healthcare improves life expectancy, reduces infant mortality rates, and enhances overall well-being, directly improving human development indicators.

 

Q7: What is the significance of vocational education in social infrastructure?

A7: Vocational education provides practical skills and training, making individuals more employable and addressing the skill gap in various industries.

 

Q8: How do schools and universities contribute to research and development?

A8: Schools and universities are centers of learning and research, fostering innovation and contributing to technological advancements essential for economic progress.

 

Q9: What is the 'brain drain' phenomenon in relation to social infrastructure?

A9: 'Brain drain' refers to the emigration of highly skilled and educated individuals to other countries, often due to better opportunities or inadequate social infrastructure (education, health, research facilities) in their home country.

 

Q10: How does good social infrastructure indirectly attract foreign investment?

A10: Good social infrastructure indicates a skilled workforce and a better quality of life, which are attractive factors for foreign companies looking to invest and set up operations.

 

Topic: Foreign Trade – Role, Composition, Direction.

Role of Foreign Trade

 

Q1: Define foreign trade.

A1: Foreign trade refers to the exchange of goods and services between different countries.

 

Q2: What is the primary role of foreign trade for a country like India?

A2: The primary role is to obtain goods and services that cannot be produced domestically, dispose of surplus production, earn foreign exchange, and promote economic growth.

 

Q3: How does foreign trade help in achieving efficient resource allocation?

A3: Foreign trade allows countries to specialize in producing goods and services where they have a comparative advantage, leading to more efficient resource allocation globally.

 

Q4: Mention one way foreign trade facilitates technological advancement.

A4: Foreign trade facilitates technological advancement by enabling the import of advanced machinery, equipment, and know-how, and fostering competition that encourages innovation.

 

Q5: What is the impact of exports on a nation's employment?

A5: Exports create employment opportunities in various sectors involved in the production, packaging, and transportation of goods for foreign markets.

 

Q6: How does foreign trade contribute to increased competition in the domestic market?

Q6: Imports introduce foreign goods, forcing domestic producers to improve quality, reduce costs, and innovate to remain competitive.

 

Q7: What is the significance of foreign exchange earnings from trade?

A7: Foreign exchange earnings are crucial for financing necessary imports, repaying foreign debt, and maintaining a healthy balance of payments.

 

Q8: How does foreign trade help in stabilizing prices?

A8: By allowing the import of goods that are in short supply domestically and exporting surplus goods, foreign trade can help stabilize domestic prices.

 

Q9: What is the concept of 'market expansion' in foreign trade?

A9: Market expansion refers to producers gaining access to larger international markets for their products, beyond their domestic market.

 

Q10: How does foreign trade contribute to a higher standard of living?

A10: Foreign trade provides consumers with a wider variety of goods and services at potentially lower prices, contributing to a higher standard of living.

 

Composition of Foreign Trade

 

Q1: What does the 'composition of foreign trade' refer to?

A1: It refers to the types of goods and services that a country imports and exports.

 

Q2: Name two major categories of goods that India typically exports.

A2: Major exports include manufactured goods (engineering goods, textiles, chemicals), agricultural products (rice, spices), gems and jewellery, and petroleum products.

 

Q3: What are the major items that India typically imports?

A3: Major imports include crude petroleum, machinery, electronic goods, gold, chemicals, and pearls, precious and semi-precious stones.

 

Q4: Has India's export basket shifted from primary goods to manufactured goods over time?

A4: Yes, there has been a significant shift from primary agricultural goods to manufactured and high-value-added goods in India's export basket.

 

Q5: What is the significance of service exports in India's foreign trade?

A5: Service exports, particularly IT and IT-enabled services, have grown significantly and contribute substantially to India's foreign exchange earnings.

 

Q6: How does the composition of trade reflect a country's stage of development?

A6: Developing countries often export primary goods and import manufactured goods, while developed countries tend to export manufactured goods and services.

 

Q7: What is the role of petroleum in India's import bill?

A7: Petroleum and crude oil constitute the largest share of India's import bill, as India is heavily reliant on oil imports.

 

Q8: Give an example of an 'invisible' item in foreign trade.

A8: Services like tourism, software exports, banking, and shipping are examples of 'invisible' items.

 

Q9: How has the composition of India's imports changed with industrialization?

A9: With industrialization, India's imports have shifted from consumer goods to capital goods, industrial raw materials, and technology.

 

Q10: What is the impact of global demand on the composition of a country's exports?

A10: Global demand patterns influence the composition of a country's exports, encouraging diversification into products with high international demand.

 

Direction of Foreign Trade

 

Q1: What does the 'direction of foreign trade' indicate?

A1: It indicates the countries or regions with which a country conducts its import and export trade.

 

Q2: Name two major trading partners of India.

A2: Major trading partners include the USA, China, UAE, Saudi Arabia, European Union, and Singapore.

 

Q3: Why is diversification of trade partners important for a country?

A3: Diversification of trade partners reduces dependence on a few countries, minimizing risks associated with economic or political instability in any single partner country.

 

Q4: Which region has traditionally been a significant export destination for Indian goods?

A4: The European Union and North America (USA) have traditionally been significant export destinations.

 

Q5: How has the 'Look East' policy impacted India's trade direction?

A5: The 'Look East' (now 'Act East') policy has increased India's trade and economic engagement with Southeast Asian and East Asian countries.

 

Q6: What is the significance of the Middle East in India's import direction?

Q6: The Middle East is a significant source of crude oil imports for India.

 

Q7: How do Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) influence the direction of trade?

A7: FTAs reduce trade barriers between signatory countries, often leading to an increase in trade volume and a shift in trade direction towards those partners.

 

Q8: What is the impact of geopolitical factors on the direction of foreign trade?

A8: Geopolitical factors like trade disputes, sanctions, or alliances can significantly alter trade routes and partners, influencing the direction of foreign trade.

 

Q9: Has China's role as a trading partner for India primarily been as an importer or exporter to India?

A9: China's role has primarily been as a major exporter to India, leading to a significant trade deficit for India.

 

Q10: How does the growing importance of emerging economies impact India's trade direction?

A10: The growing importance of emerging economies in Asia, Africa, and Latin America is leading to a diversification of India's trade direction towards these new markets.