Extra 15 important long-answer questions with answers from the chapter "Development" in Class 11 Political Science:

1. Define development. What are the key aspects of development?

Answer:
Development refers to the process of improving the economic, social, and political well-being of people in a country. It involves growth in income, literacy, health, infrastructure, and governance.

Key Aspects of Development:

Economic Growth:

Increase in national income, GDP, and employment opportunities.

Social Progress:

Improvement in education, healthcare, and gender equality.

Political Stability:

Good governance, democracy, and human rights.

Environmental Sustainability:

Protection of natural resources and eco-friendly policies.

Thus, development is a multi-dimensional concept, focusing on human well-being rather than just economic prosperity.

2. Differentiate between economic growth and economic development.

Answer:

Economic Growth	Economic Development
Refers to an increase in GDP or national income.	Refers to overall improvement in living standards, including health and education.
Measured in terms of GDP and per capita income.	Measured using Human Development Index (HDI), literacy rate, and life expectancy.
Can occur without improving social indicators.	Focuses on reducing poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
Example: A rise in GDP without improvements in healthcare.	Example: Increase in GDP along with better education and health facilities.

Thus, economic development is a broader concept that includes economic growth along with social progress.

3. What is the Human Development Index (HDI)? What are its components?

Answer:
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a tool developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to measure a country's overall development.

Components of HDI:

Life Expectancy Index

– Measures health and longevity.

Education Index

– Includes literacy rate and school enrolment.

Income Index

– Per capita income in terms of Purchasing Power Parity (PPP).

HDI ranks countries based on these indicators, showing how well a country provides a good quality of life for its citizens.

4. What are the challenges to development in developing countries?

Answer:

Poverty and Unemployment:

Large sections of the population remain poor due to lack of jobs and economic opportunities.

Illiteracy and Poor Healthcare:

Limited access to education and medical facilities hinders human capital development.

Political Instability:

Corruption, weak governance, and lack of policies slow down development.

Environmental Issues:

Deforestation, pollution, and climate change threaten sustainable development.

Economic Inequality:

The gap between the rich and poor widens, leading to social unrest.

These challenges require strong policy interventions and global cooperation for sustainable development.

5. Explain the concept of sustainable development. Why is it important?

Answer:
Sustainable development refers to meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Importance of Sustainable Development:

Environmental Protection:

Ensures responsible use of natural resources.

Economic Growth:

Encourages eco-friendly industries and green jobs.

Social Equity:

Reduces poverty and ensures equal opportunities for all.

Climate Change Mitigation:

Reduces carbon emissions and promotes renewable energy.

Thus, sustainable development is essential for long-term global stability.

6. What is the role of education in development?

Answer:
Education plays a crucial role in the development of a nation:

Skill Development:

Educated individuals contribute more effectively to the workforce.

Economic Growth:

Higher literacy rates lead to increased productivity and innovation.

Social Awareness:

Educated citizens make informed decisions and promote democratic values.

Poverty Reduction:

Provides better job opportunities and reduces income inequality.

Health Improvement:

Awareness about hygiene, nutrition, and family planning improves overall well-being.

Thus, investment in education is a key driver of national development.

7. How does globalization impact development?

Answer:
Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and societies.

Positive Impacts:

Trade and Investment:

Increased foreign direct investment (FDI) boosts industrial growth.

Technology Transfer:

Helps developing countries access advanced technologies.

Employment Opportunities:

Expands job markets and entrepreneurship.

Cultural Exchange:

Promotes diversity and innovation.

Negative Impacts:

Economic Inequality:

Benefits large corporations more than small businesses.

Environmental Degradation:

Increased industrialization leads to pollution.

Loss of Local Industries:

Traditional businesses struggle to compete with global brands.

Thus, globalization has both positive and negative effects on development.

8. What are the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Answer:
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by the United Nations (UN) in 2015 to promote development worldwide.

Some key SDGs:

No poverty

Zero hunger

Quality education

Gender equality

Clean water and sanitation

Affordable and clean energy

Decent work and economic growth

These 17 goals aim to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.

9. Explain the importance of infrastructure in development.

Answer:
Infrastructure includes roads, electricity, water supply, and communication systems, which are essential for economic growth.

Importance:

Boosts Economic Activities:

Improves trade, investment, and industrial production.

Enhances Quality of Life:

Provides clean water, electricity, and healthcare facilities.

Reduces Poverty:

Increases employment and business opportunities.

Supports Urbanization:

Develops smart cities and improves connectivity.

Thus, good infrastructure is a backbone for national development.

10. What is the role of government in economic development?

Answer:

Policy Making:

Formulating economic policies for sustainable growth.

Public Services:

Providing healthcare, education, and social welfare schemes.

Infrastructure Development:

Investing in roads, transport, and communication.

Job Creation:

Encouraging industrialization and entrepreneurship.

Governments play a crucial role in shaping a country's development.

11. What are the features of developed countries?

Answer:

High GDP and per capita income

Advanced infrastructure and technology

High literacy and life expectancy

Stable political system

Strong industrial and service sectors

12. How does inequality affect development?

Answer:
Economic inequality hinders growth by limiting access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities. It leads to social unrest and slows economic progress.

13. What is the importance of gender equality in development?

Answer:
Gender equality enhances economic productivity, reduces poverty, and improves health and education outcomes.

14. How does poverty hinder development?

Answer:
Poverty leads to illiteracy, poor health, and unemployment, reducing economic productivity and slowing national growth.

15. What are the measures to reduce unemployment?

Answer:

Skill development programs

Encouraging entrepreneurship

Promoting industrialization

Expanding rural employment schemes