Viewing: Question Paper
Annual Examination — Academic Session 2025–26
Economics — Class X
Chapter 1 : Development
▶ General Instructions
- This question paper contains four sections. Read all instructions carefully before attempting.
- Section A consists of 20 Multiple Choice Questions of 1 mark each. Choose the most appropriate option.
- Section B consists of 8 Short Answer Questions of 3 marks each. Answer in 40–60 words.
- Section C consists of 4 Long Answer Questions of 5 marks each. Answer in 100–120 words.
- Section D consists of 2 Case Studies with 2 questions each (4 marks per case). Read each passage carefully.
- All questions are compulsory unless an internal choice is given.
- Write neat, legible answers. Diagrams and tables should be labelled.
Section A
Multiple Choice Questions
20 Questions × 1 Mark = 20 Marks
Choose the most appropriate answer from the four options given below each question.
1.
The most common method used to measure the development of a country is:
[1]
(a) Literacy Rate
(b) Per Capita Income
(c) Infant Mortality Rate
(d) Life Expectancy
Answer: (b) Per Capita Income
Per Capita Income (average income) is the most common method used by the World Bank to compare the development of countries.
Per Capita Income (average income) is the most common method used by the World Bank to compare the development of countries.
2.
According to the World Bank (2023), countries with per capita income of US$ 63,400 per annum and above are classified as:
[1]
(a) Low-income countries
(b) Middle-income countries
(c) High-income or rich countries
(d) Developing countries
Answer: (c) High-income or rich countries
The World Bank classifies countries with per capita income ≥ US$ 63,400 per annum (2023) as high-income or rich countries.
The World Bank classifies countries with per capita income ≥ US$ 63,400 per annum (2023) as high-income or rich countries.
3.
India’s per capita income in 2023 places it in the category of:
[1]
(a) High-income countries
(b) Low-income countries
(c) Low middle-income countries
(d) Upper middle-income countries
Answer: (c) Low middle-income countries
India’s per capita income in 2023 was approximately US$ 10,030 per annum, placing it in the low middle-income category.
India’s per capita income in 2023 was approximately US$ 10,030 per annum, placing it in the low middle-income category.
4.
Which of the following states has the lowest per capita income among the three states — Haryana, Kerala and Bihar?
[1]
(a) Haryana
(b) Kerala
(c) Bihar
(d) All are equal
Answer: (c) Bihar
Bihar had a per capita income of ₹47,498 in 2021–22, the lowest among the three. Haryana was highest at ₹2,64,729.
Bihar had a per capita income of ₹47,498 in 2021–22, the lowest among the three. Haryana was highest at ₹2,64,729.
5.
HDI is published by which organisation?
[1]
(a) World Bank
(b) IMF
(c) Government of India
(d) UNDP
Answer: (d) UNDP
The Human Development Index (HDI) is published annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its Human Development Report.
The Human Development Index (HDI) is published annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its Human Development Report.
6.
Kerala’s Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) per 1,000 live births (2020) is:
[1]
(a) 28
(b) 27
(c) 6
(d) 15
Answer: (c) 6
Kerala has an IMR of just 6 per 1,000 live births (2020), far better than Haryana (28) or Bihar (27) — due to strong public health facilities.
Kerala has an IMR of just 6 per 1,000 live births (2020), far better than Haryana (28) or Bihar (27) — due to strong public health facilities.
7.
Which of the following is a non-renewable resource?
[1]
(a) Groundwater
(b) Forests
(c) Crude oil
(d) Solar energy
Answer: (c) Crude oil
Crude oil is a non-renewable resource with a fixed stock that cannot be replenished. Global reserves at current extraction rates will last about 47 years.
Crude oil is a non-renewable resource with a fixed stock that cannot be replenished. Global reserves at current extraction rates will last about 47 years.
8.
The HDI measures development using three dimensions. Which of the following is NOT one of them?
[1]
(a) Health (Life Expectancy)
(b) Education (Literacy & Schooling)
(c) Income (GNI per capita)
(d) Military strength
Answer: (d) Military strength
HDI combines health (life expectancy), education (mean years of schooling), and income (GNI per capita). Military strength is not a component.
HDI combines health (life expectancy), education (mean years of schooling), and income (GNI per capita). Military strength is not a component.
9.
India’s HDI world rank in 2021–22 is:
[1]
(a) 78
(b) 129
(c) 134
(d) 164
Answer: (c) 134
India ranks 134th out of 193 countries in the HDI (2021–22), behind Sri Lanka (78) and Bangladesh (129).
India ranks 134th out of 193 countries in the HDI (2021–22), behind Sri Lanka (78) and Bangladesh (129).
10.
Which neighbouring country ranks highest on the HDI among India’s neighbours?
[1]
(a) Pakistan
(b) Nepal
(c) Sri Lanka
(d) Bangladesh
Answer: (c) Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka ranks 78th on HDI — the highest among India’s listed neighbours. Pakistan ranks lowest at 164th.
Sri Lanka ranks 78th on HDI — the highest among India’s listed neighbours. Pakistan ranks lowest at 164th.
11.
“We have not inherited the world from our forefathers — we have borrowed it from our children.” This quote best relates to:
[1]
(a) Per capita income
(b) Sustainable development
(c) Human Development Index
(d) Average income trap
Answer: (b) Sustainable development
This famous quote captures the essence of sustainable development — present generations must not exhaust resources needed by future generations.
This famous quote captures the essence of sustainable development — present generations must not exhaust resources needed by future generations.
12.
Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) is the number of children that die before the age of:
[1]
(a) 5 years
(b) 2 years
(c) 1 year
(d) 10 years
Answer: (c) 1 year
IMR = number of children dying before completing one year of age, expressed per 1,000 live births in that year.
IMR = number of children dying before completing one year of age, expressed per 1,000 live births in that year.
13.
Per Capita Income is calculated as:
[1]
(a) GDP ÷ Population
(b) Total National Income ÷ Total Population
(c) Total Exports − Total Imports
(d) National Savings ÷ Population
Answer: (b) Total National Income ÷ Total Population
Per capita income = Total national income ÷ total population. It represents the average income per person in a country.
Per capita income = Total national income ÷ total population. It represents the average income per person in a country.
14.
Which of the following is a goal that most people seek, beyond income?
[1]
(a) Higher exports
(b) More factories
(c) Equal treatment, freedom and security
(d) Greater taxation
Answer: (c) Equal treatment, freedom and security
Beyond income, people seek equal treatment, freedom, security, and respect — these are vital non-material developmental goals.
Beyond income, people seek equal treatment, freedom, security, and respect — these are vital non-material developmental goals.
15.
The Public Distribution System (PDS) of Kerala contributes mainly to:
[1]
(a) Higher per capita income
(b) Better nutritional status and lower IMR
(c) More exports
(d) Higher literacy only
Answer: (b) Better nutritional status and lower IMR
Kerala’s well-functioning PDS ensures access to subsidised food, improving nutrition and health — a key reason for its exceptionally low IMR of 6.
Kerala’s well-functioning PDS ensures access to subsidised food, improving nutrition and health — a key reason for its exceptionally low IMR of 6.
16.
Groundwater overuse is particularly severe in which region of India?
[1]
(a) Northeastern states
(b) Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh
(c) Kerala and Tamil Nadu
(d) Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Answer: (b) Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh
According to the NCERT text, groundwater overuse is particularly found in agriculturally prosperous Punjab and Western UP, hard rock plateaus, and coastal areas.
According to the NCERT text, groundwater overuse is particularly found in agriculturally prosperous Punjab and Western UP, hard rock plateaus, and coastal areas.
17.
Why are averages (per capita income) sometimes misleading as a measure of development?
[1]
(a) They are difficult to calculate
(b) They hide inequalities in income distribution
(c) They are not published by governments
(d) They include foreign income only
Answer: (b) They hide inequalities in income distribution
Two countries can have the same average income but very different distributions — e.g. Country A (equal) vs Country B (one rich, rest poor).
Two countries can have the same average income but very different distributions — e.g. Country A (equal) vs Country B (one rich, rest poor).
18.
Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is used to:
[1]
(a) Measure military power of nations
(b) Calculate rainfall distribution
(c) Compare income across countries in equal terms
(d) Rank countries by population
Answer: (c) Compare income across countries in equal terms
PPP adjusts income so that every dollar buys the same amount of goods and services in any country, enabling fair cross-country comparison.
PPP adjusts income so that every dollar buys the same amount of goods and services in any country, enabling fair cross-country comparison.
19.
Which of the following statements is correct about developmental goals?
[1]
(a) All people have identical developmental goals
(b) Only income-related goals matter
(c) Different people can have different and even conflicting goals
(d) Developmental goals are set by the government only
Answer: (c) Different people can have different and even conflicting goals
Life situations differ — a tribal may oppose a dam that benefits an industrialist. What is development for one may be destruction for another.
Life situations differ — a tribal may oppose a dam that benefits an industrialist. What is development for one may be destruction for another.
20.
Literacy Rate measures the proportion of literate population in the age group of:
[1]
(a) 5 years and above
(b) 7 years and above
(c) 10 years and above
(d) 15 years and above
Answer: (b) 7 years and above
Literacy Rate = proportion of literate population in the 7-and-above age group. It is a key educational indicator used in development comparisons.
Literacy Rate = proportion of literate population in the 7-and-above age group. It is a key educational indicator used in development comparisons.
Section B
Short Answer Questions
8 Questions × 3 Marks = 24 Marks
Answer each question in approximately 40–60 words.
21.
Why do different persons have different developmental goals? Give two examples to support your answer.
[3]
Answer: Different persons have different developmental goals because their life situations are different — their occupation, gender, class, and location shape what they need most.
- Example 1: A landless rural labourer wants more days of work and better wages; a prosperous Punjab farmer wants high crop support prices and cheap labour.
- Example 2: An industrialist wants dams to generate cheap electricity; a tribal living near the river resists the dam as it submerges their land.
1 mark: Reason (different life situations) | 1+1 marks: Two valid examples
22.
What is the difference between total income and per capita income of a country? Why is per capita income considered a better measure for comparison?
[3]
Answer:
- Total Income = sum of incomes of all residents of a country.
- Per Capita Income = Total income ÷ Total population. It is also called average income.
- Why better: Countries have different population sizes. Comparing total incomes would not reveal what an average person earns. Per capita income makes the comparison meaningful — it tells us how much a typical individual earns, allowing fairer cross-country comparisons.
1 mark: Total income definition | 1 mark: Per capita income formula | 1 mark: Reason per capita is better
23.
Compare Haryana and Kerala using two development indicators other than per capita income. What conclusion can you draw?
[3]
Answer:
- Infant Mortality Rate: Haryana 28 vs Kerala 6 (per 1,000 live births, 2020). Kerala is far superior.
- Literacy Rate: Haryana 82% vs Kerala 94% (2017–18). Kerala is superior.
- Conclusion: Although Haryana has a higher per capita income than Kerala, Kerala performs better on human development indicators because of its superior public facilities — healthcare, education, and the PDS. This proves that income alone is not an adequate measure of development.
1+1 marks: Two valid indicators with data | 1 mark: Logical conclusion
24.
What are public facilities? Why are they important for development? Give two examples.
[3]
Answer: Public facilities are goods and services provided collectively by the government or society for the benefit of all citizens.
- Importance: Money in your pocket cannot buy everything — a pollution-free environment, prevention of infectious diseases, or universal education require collective provision. Individual provision is costly and unequal; collective provision is cheaper and fairer.
- Example 1: Government schools — enable children from all classes to study.
- Example 2: Public Distribution System (PDS) — provides subsidised food, improving health and nutrition for all.
1 mark: Definition | 1 mark: Importance | 1 mark: Two examples
25.
Distinguish between renewable and non-renewable resources. Give one example of each.
[3]
Answer:
- Renewable Resources: Resources that are naturally replenished over time. However, they can be over-exploited if used faster than nature replenishes them. Example: Groundwater — replenished by rain, but about 300 districts in India have seen water levels fall over 4 metres in 20 years due to overuse.
- Non-Renewable Resources: Resources with a fixed stock on Earth that cannot be replenished once used. Example: Crude oil — estimated global reserves will last only about 47 years at current extraction rates.
1 mark: Renewable + example | 1 mark: Non-renewable + example | 1 mark: Key distinction (replenishment)
26.
How does the UNDP’s HDI differ from the World Bank’s method of measuring development?
[3]
Answer:
| Basis | World Bank | UNDP (HDI) |
|---|---|---|
| Criterion | Per capita income only | Income + Health + Education |
| Focus | Economic output | Human wellbeing |
| Limitation | Hides inequality & quality of life | More comprehensive picture |
1 mark: World Bank criterion | 1 mark: HDI components | 1 mark: Key difference (human wellbeing)
27.
What is meant by ‘sustainability of development’? Why is it important?
[3]
Answer: Sustainability of development means meeting the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Importance 1: Overuse of renewable resources (e.g. groundwater in Punjab) and depletion of non-renewables (crude oil lasting ~47 years) threatens future availability.
- Importance 2: Environmental degradation crosses national boundaries — our future is linked together globally. Without sustainable practices, economic growth today destroys tomorrow’s potential.
1 mark: Definition | 1+1 marks: Two reasons with examples
28.
What do you understand by ‘national development’? How is it different from individual development goals?
[3]
Answer:
- National Development means choosing goals and policies that benefit the largest number of people in a fair and just manner — thinking about what is good for the whole nation, not just a group or individual.
- Difference from individual goals: Individual goals can be personal (a rich farmer wanting cheap labour) or even harmful to others (a factory wanting to dump waste). National development must weigh all perspectives and choose paths where the benefit is widespread and equitable.
- It also involves asking: Would this idea benefit a large number or only a small group? Is it fair?
1 mark: Definition of national development | 1 mark: Distinction | 1 mark: Fair & widespread benefit criterion
Section C
Long Answer Questions
4 Questions × 5 Marks = 20 Marks
Answer each question in approximately 100–120 words. Internal choice is provided.
29.
“Income is an important criterion of development, but it is not the only one.” Justify this statement with reference to goals beyond income, and explain why non-material goals matter.
[5]
Answer: Income is important because it enables people to purchase goods and services they need. More income means more of all things human beings require. However, income alone is insufficient to measure development because:
- Non-material goals: People also seek equal treatment, freedom, security, and respect. These cannot be bought with money but are vital to wellbeing. A job offering high pay but no security or family time reduces quality of life.
- Collective goods: A pollution-free environment, prevention of infectious disease, and quality education require collective social action — individual money cannot guarantee them.
- Kerala–Haryana example: Despite Haryana’s higher per capita income, Kerala has far lower Infant Mortality Rate (6 vs 28), higher literacy (94% vs 82%) and better school attendance — because Kerala invests in public facilities.
- Women’s dignity: If women engage in paid work, their dignity in the household increases. But if society provides respect and safety, women can pursue any career — showing that non-material conditions shape economic outcomes.
1 mark: Income as a goal | 1 mark: Non-material goals | 1 mark: Collective goods argument | 1 mark: Kerala example | 1 mark: Conclusion
— OR —
29b.
Explain the concept of the ‘Average Income Trap’ with an example. Why is equitable distribution of income important alongside the size of per capita income?
[5]
Answer:
- Average Income Trap: While averages are useful for comparison, they hide disparities. Two countries can have the same average income, yet one may be far more unequal.
- Example (Country A vs B): Country A has 5 citizens earning ₹9,500; ₹10,500; ₹9,800; ₹10,000; ₹10,200 — average ₹10,000. Country B has 4 citizens earning ₹500 each and one earning ₹48,000 — also average ₹10,000. Though the average is identical, most people in Country B are poor. Country A has equitable distribution; Country B is highly unequal.
- Why equitable distribution matters:
- High average income with extreme inequality means most citizens are poor while few are very rich.
- Access to food, education, healthcare, and dignity depends on how income is distributed, not just its average.
- A society where everyone earns similarly (Country A) is more developed in a meaningful human sense than one with extreme concentration of wealth (Country B).
1 mark: Concept of average trap | 2 marks: Country A vs B example with data | 2 marks: Why equitable distribution matters
30.
Describe the Human Development Index (HDI) in detail. What are its three components? How does India’s HDI performance compare to its neighbours? (Refer to data from the Human Development Report 2023–24.)
[5]
Answer:
HDI (Human Development Index) is a composite index published by UNDP that measures human development by combining three key dimensions:
- 1. Health: Measured by Life Expectancy at birth — the average expected length of life at birth.
- 2. Education: Measured by mean years of schooling of people aged 25 and above.
- 3. Income: Measured by GNI per capita in 2017 PPP dollars, which adjusts for purchasing power.
- Sri Lanka: GNI $11,899, Life Exp. 76.6 yrs, Schooling 11.2 yrs → HDI Rank 78 (best)
- Bangladesh: GNI $6,511, Life Exp. 73.7 yrs → Rank 129
- India: GNI $6,951, Life Exp. 67.7 yrs → Rank 134
- Nepal: GNI $4,026, Life Exp. 70.5 yrs → Rank 146
- Pakistan: GNI $5,374, Life Exp. 66.4 yrs → Rank 164 (worst)
1 mark: HDI definition | 1+1+1 marks: Three components | 1 mark: Comparative data & conclusion
31.
What is sustainable development? Explain the threats to sustainability using two specific examples from India and the world. What does the statement “we have borrowed the Earth from our children” imply?
[5]
Answer: Sustainable Development = development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
- Example 1 — Groundwater Crisis (India): About 300 districts have reported a water level decline of over 4 metres in 20 years. Nearly one-third of the country already overuses its groundwater reserves. At this rate, 60% of India will be overusing groundwater in 25 years. Agriculturally prosperous regions like Punjab and Western UP are worst affected.
- Example 2 — Crude Oil Depletion (World): Global crude oil reserves (1,732 thousand million barrels) will last only about 47 years at current extraction rates. The US has only 10.5 years of reserves, while the Middle East has about 70 years. Countries like India that depend on oil imports face severe energy vulnerability.
- Implication of the quote: “We have borrowed the Earth from our children” means future generations have a right to the same natural resources we enjoy today. We are not owners — we are temporary custodians. Destroying resources for short-term gain violates the rights of those yet to be born.
1 mark: Definition | 1+1 marks: Two examples with data | 1 mark: Implication of quote | 1 mark: Overall analysis
32.
Explain in detail how developmental goals differ across different sections of society. Why does “what may be development for one may not be development for another”? Support with examples from different categories of people.
[5]
Answer: Development is not a single universal concept — it is shaped by each person’s life situation, occupation, gender, and social position.
- Landless rural labourers: Want more days of work, better wages, quality schools for children, and no social discrimination — basic survival and dignity.
- Prosperous Punjab farmers: Want high crop support prices, cheap labour, and ability to settle children abroad — maximising wealth and opportunity.
- Girl from rich urban family: Wants the same freedom as her brother, the right to choose her career, and study abroad — equality and autonomy.
- Adivasis near Narmada valley: Want protection of their land and forest rights, not large dams — security and culture over industrial progress.
- Conflicting goals: Industrialists need large dams for cheap electricity (their development). But the same dam submerges tribal land and destroys livelihoods (destruction for tribals). This is why what is development for one can be destruction for another.
1 mark: Reason (different life situations) | 3 marks: Three specific categories with examples | 1 mark: Conflicting goals + conclusion
Section D
Case Study / Source-Based Questions
2 Cases × 8 Marks = 16 Marks
Read the passages and data carefully and answer the questions that follow.
📄 Case Study 1 — Data-Based Question
Study the following data from Table 1.4 and Table 1.3 of NCERT Chapter 1: Development, and answer the questions below.
| State | Per Capita Income (2021–22 in ₹) | IMR per 1,000 live births (2020) | Literacy Rate % (2017–18) | Net Attendance Ratio — secondary (2017–18) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haryana | 2,64,729 | 28 | 82 | 73 |
| Kerala | 2,34,405 | 6 | 94 | 94 |
| Bihar | 47,498 | 27 | 62 | 69 |
33.
Based on the table above, compare Haryana and Kerala on all four indicators. Despite Haryana’s higher per capita income, why does Kerala perform better on human development indicators? Explain with reference to public facilities. (4 marks)
[4]
Answer — Comparison:
- Per Capita Income: Haryana (₹2,64,729) > Kerala (₹2,34,405) — Haryana wins.
- IMR: Haryana 28 vs Kerala 6 — Kerala is dramatically better (28 children die per 1,000 in Haryana vs only 6 in Kerala).
- Literacy Rate: Haryana 82% vs Kerala 94% — Kerala is better.
- Net Attendance Ratio: Haryana 73% vs Kerala 94% — Kerala is better.
1 mark: Correct comparison (all 4 indicators) | 1 mark: Identifying public facilities as the reason | 2 marks: Detailed explanation with examples
34.
Bihar has the lowest per capita income and also lags in literacy and school attendance. (i) What do you think are the consequences of low school attendance for Bihar’s future development? (ii) What role can the government play in improving Bihar’s human development? (4 marks)
[4]
Answer:
(i) Consequences of low school attendance:
- About one-third of children aged 15–17 in Bihar do not attend secondary school — creating a large pool of unskilled youth.
- Low literacy perpetuates the cycle of poverty: uneducated parents cannot support children’s education, keeping future generations trapped.
- Low-skilled workforce reduces Bihar’s productive capacity, limits innovation, and deters investment — reducing future per capita income growth.
- Constitutional goal of free and compulsory education for all children up to 14 years (expected by 1960) remains unfulfilled.
- Open more schools, especially in rural areas and for girls, who are disproportionately excluded.
- Strengthen the Mid-Day Meal scheme to incentivise attendance.
- Improve teacher quality and accountability.
- Launch conditional cash transfers to families who keep children in school.
- Invest in healthcare (reducing IMR of 27 close to Kerala’s 6) through public hospitals and PDS.
2 marks: Consequences (2 valid points) | 2 marks: Government’s role (2 valid points)
📄 Case Study 2 — Source-Based Question
Read the following passage adapted from NCERT Class 10 Economics, Chapter 1, and answer the questions that follow:
“Recent evidence suggests that the groundwater is under serious threat of overuse in many parts of the country. About 300 districts have reported a water level decline of over 4 metres during the past 20 years. Nearly one-third of the country is overusing their groundwater reserves. In another 25 years, 60 per cent of the country would be doing the same if the present way of using this resource continues. Groundwater overuse is particularly found in the agriculturally prosperous regions of Punjab and Western U.P., hard rock plateau areas of central and south India, some coastal areas and the rapidly growing urban settlements.”
Additionally, global crude oil reserves are estimated at 1,732 thousand million barrels. At the current rate of extraction, they will last only about 47 years. Countries like India depend heavily on oil imports.
35.
Based on the passage, explain why groundwater is classified as a renewable resource yet is still under threat. What does this tell us about the limits of renewable resources? (4 marks)
[4]
Answer:
- Why renewable: Groundwater is a renewable resource because it is naturally replenished by rainfall through the process of percolation and seepage into the water table.
- Why still under threat: Renewable does not mean unlimited. If the rate of consumption exceeds the rate of replenishment, even a renewable resource gets depleted. In India, agricultural demand (especially for water-intensive crops in Punjab and Western UP), industrial use, and rapid urbanisation have caused extraction to far outpace recharge.
- Scale of threat: 300 districts have seen water levels fall 4+ metres. One-third of the country is already overusing reserves. If unchecked, 60% will face crisis in 25 years.
- Lesson: Renewable resources can sustain us only if used within their regeneration capacity. Overuse converts a renewable resource into a functionally non-renewable one. This is central to the concept of sustainable development — protecting resources so they remain available for future generations.
1 mark: Why renewable | 1 mark: Why still threatened (extraction > replenishment) | 1 mark: Data from passage | 1 mark: Lesson about sustainability
36.
Crude oil will last only about 47 years at the current rate. (i) What challenges does this pose specifically for India? (ii) Suggest two alternative energy sources India could develop to reduce dependence on crude oil. (4 marks)
[4]
Answer:
(i) Challenges for India:
- India imports most of its crude oil — as global reserves shrink, prices will rise sharply, making energy more expensive for every citizen and industry.
- Oil price increases create inflationary pressure across the economy (transport, food, manufacturing all become costlier).
- Over-dependence on oil-rich nations (Middle East) creates geopolitical vulnerability — supply disruptions directly threaten India’s energy security.
- India’s foreign exchange reserves are strained by high oil import bills, limiting funds available for other development priorities.
- Solar energy: India has immense solar potential (especially in Rajasthan, Gujarat). The National Solar Mission aims to make India a global solar energy leader. Solar is renewable, clean, and increasingly cost-competitive.
- Wind energy: India has a large coastline and high wind-potential states (Tamil Nadu, Gujarat). Wind farms can generate large amounts of electricity without fossil fuels, reducing oil dependence for power generation.
2 marks: Two challenges for India (specific and explained) | 1+1 marks: Two alternative energy sources with explanation
🔑 Official Answer Key
For Examiner Use Only — Class X Economics | Chapter 1: Development
ANSWER KEY — NOT FOR STUDENT USE
Marks Distribution Summary
| Section | Type | No. of Qs | Marks Each | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | MCQ | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| B | Short Answer | 8 | 3 | 24 |
| C | Long Answer | 4 (with 1 internal choice) | 5 | 20 |
| D | Case Study | 4 | 4 | 16 |
| Grand Total | 80 | |||
Section A — MCQ Answer Key
Q1(b)
Q2(c)
Q3(c)
Q4(c)
Q5(d)
Q6(c)
Q7(c)
Q8(d)
Q9(c)
Q10(c)
Q11(b)
Q12(c)
Q13(b)
Q14(c)
Q15(b)
Q16(b)
Q17(b)
Q18(c)
Q19(c)
Q20(b)
Section B — Short Answer Key Points (3 marks each)
Q21[3 marks]
Why do different persons have different developmental goals?
1 mark Different life situations (occupation, gender, class, location) create different needs.
1 mark Example 1: Landless labourer (wants wages/work) vs prosperous farmer (wants high prices/cheap labour).
1 mark Example 2: Industrialist (wants dam for electricity) vs tribal (dam destroys their land).
1 mark Example 1: Landless labourer (wants wages/work) vs prosperous farmer (wants high prices/cheap labour).
1 mark Example 2: Industrialist (wants dam for electricity) vs tribal (dam destroys their land).
Q22[3 marks]
Total income vs per capita income; why per capita is better.
1 mark Total income = sum of all residents’ incomes.
1 mark Per capita income = total income ÷ total population (also called average income).
1 mark Per capita income is better because different countries have different populations; total income does not tell us individual earnings.
1 mark Per capita income = total income ÷ total population (also called average income).
1 mark Per capita income is better because different countries have different populations; total income does not tell us individual earnings.
Q23[3 marks]
Compare Haryana and Kerala on two indicators other than per capita income.
1 mark IMR: Haryana 28 vs Kerala 6 — Kerala far superior.
1 mark Literacy Rate: Haryana 82% vs Kerala 94% — Kerala superior.
1 mark Conclusion: Higher income alone does not ensure better development; public facilities matter more.
1 mark Literacy Rate: Haryana 82% vs Kerala 94% — Kerala superior.
1 mark Conclusion: Higher income alone does not ensure better development; public facilities matter more.
Q24[3 marks]
What are public facilities? Why important?
1 mark Public facilities = goods/services provided collectively by government for all citizens.
1 mark Important because individual money cannot buy pollution-free air, epidemic prevention, or universal education.
1 mark Examples: Government schools + PDS (any two valid examples).
1 mark Important because individual money cannot buy pollution-free air, epidemic prevention, or universal education.
1 mark Examples: Government schools + PDS (any two valid examples).
Q25[3 marks]
Distinguish renewable from non-renewable resources.
1 mark Renewable = naturally replenished; can be overused (groundwater).
1 mark Non-renewable = fixed stock, cannot be replenished (crude oil).
1 mark Key distinction: renewal capacity — oil lasts ~47 years globally.
1 mark Non-renewable = fixed stock, cannot be replenished (crude oil).
1 mark Key distinction: renewal capacity — oil lasts ~47 years globally.
Q26[3 marks]
UNDP HDI vs World Bank method.
1 mark World Bank uses only per capita income.
1 mark HDI uses income + health (life expectancy) + education (schooling) — three dimensions.
1 mark Key difference: HDI focuses on human wellbeing, not just economic output.
1 mark HDI uses income + health (life expectancy) + education (schooling) — three dimensions.
1 mark Key difference: HDI focuses on human wellbeing, not just economic output.
Q27[3 marks]
Sustainability of development — meaning and importance.
1 mark Meeting present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their needs.
1 mark Importance 1: Resources (groundwater, oil) are finite or can be over-exploited.
1 mark Importance 2: Environmental degradation is global and intergenerational.
1 mark Importance 1: Resources (groundwater, oil) are finite or can be over-exploited.
1 mark Importance 2: Environmental degradation is global and intergenerational.
Q28[3 marks]
National development vs individual goals.
1 mark National development = goals that benefit the largest number of people fairly and justly.
1 mark Individual goals can be personal/selfish or harmful to others.
1 mark National development must weigh all perspectives and choose broad-based, equitable paths.
1 mark Individual goals can be personal/selfish or harmful to others.
1 mark National development must weigh all perspectives and choose broad-based, equitable paths.
Section C — Long Answer Key Points (5 marks each)
Q29 / Q29b[5 marks]
Income is not the only criterion for development / Average income trap.
Value Points (Q29 — income not the only criterion)
- Income enables purchasing power (1 mark)
- Non-material goals: freedom, security, equal treatment, respect (1 mark)
- Collective goods argument (pollution-free env., disease prevention) (1 mark)
- Kerala vs Haryana: higher income but worse IMR/literacy in Haryana (1 mark)
- Conclusion: Development = mix of income + non-material goals (1 mark)
Value Points (Q29b — average income trap)
- Averages hide disparities (1 mark)
- Country A vs B example with correct data (2 marks)
- Why equitable distribution matters — access to food, healthcare, dignity (1 mark)
- Conclusion: Size + distribution of income both matter (1 mark)
Q30[5 marks]
HDI — definition, components, India vs neighbours.
Value Points
- HDI definition: UNDP composite index (1 mark)
- Component 1: Health — Life Expectancy at birth (1 mark)
- Component 2: Education — Mean years of schooling (1 mark)
- Component 3: Income — GNI per capita in PPP dollars (1 mark)
- India rank 134; Sri Lanka 78 (best); Pakistan 164 (worst); Bangladesh 129 ahead of India despite lower income (1 mark)
Q31[5 marks]
Sustainable development — definition, two examples, quote implication.
Value Points
- Definition: present needs without compromising future generations (1 mark)
- Example 1: Groundwater — 300 districts, 4m decline, 60% crisis in 25 yrs (1 mark)
- Example 2: Crude oil — 1,732 bn barrels, ~47 years remaining (1 mark)
- Quote implication: future generations have equal rights to resources (1 mark)
- Overall analysis: sustainability as a core development principle (1 mark)
Q32[5 marks]
Different developmental goals across society — with examples.
Value Points
- Reason: different life situations (1 mark)
- Category 1 with goal: Landless labourer — work, wages, schools (1 mark)
- Category 2 with goal: Girl from rich family — freedom, equality (1 mark)
- Category 3 with goal: Adivasi / tribal — land rights, cultural protection (1 mark)
- Conflicting goals example (dam) + conclusion (fair national development) (1 mark)
Section D — Case Study Answer Key (4 marks each)
Q33[4 marks]
Haryana vs Kerala on all four indicators; why Kerala fares better.
Value Points
- Correct comparison of all 4 indicators with data (1 mark)
- Identifying PDS + public healthcare as key reason (1 mark)
- Explanation: money alone cannot buy collective public goods (1 mark)
- Conclusion: income is necessary but not sufficient for human development (1 mark)
Q34[4 marks]
Bihar — consequences of low attendance; government’s role.
Value Points
- Consequence 1: unskilled workforce, poverty trap (1 mark)
- Consequence 2: constitutional goal of free education unfulfilled (1 mark)
- Govt role 1: open more schools especially for girls (1 mark)
- Govt role 2: strengthen PDS / Mid-Day Meal / incentive schemes (1 mark)
Q35[4 marks]
Why groundwater (renewable) is still under threat; limits of renewables.
Value Points
- Renewable because replenished by rainfall (1 mark)
- Threatened because extraction rate > replenishment rate (1 mark)
- Data from passage: 300 districts, 60% crisis in 25 yrs (1 mark)
- Lesson: renewable ≠ unlimited; sustainability requires staying within regeneration limits (1 mark)
Q36[4 marks]
Crude oil — challenges for India; two alternative energy sources.
Value Points
- Challenge 1: India imports oil — rising prices strain economy and foreign exchange (1 mark)
- Challenge 2: geopolitical vulnerability / energy insecurity (1 mark)
- Alternative 1: Solar energy — India’s National Solar Mission; renewable & clean (1 mark)
- Alternative 2: Wind energy — large coastline; Tamil Nadu & Gujarat potential (1 mark)
Note for Examiners: Award marks for any relevant, factually correct answers even if not verbatim. Accept well-explained alternative examples. For case study questions, ensure data from the passage is referenced. Do not deduct marks for minor language errors.
