TS Inter 2nd Year – Economics Previous Paper 2022
ECONOMICS, Paper – II
(English Version)
Time: 3 Hours Max. Marks: 100
SECTION A (3 x 10 = 30)
Note: Answer ANY THREE of the following questions in 40 lines each. (ii) Each question carries TEN marks.
1. What are the causes for rapid growth of population in India?
India has experienced rapid population growth in recent decades, driven by a combination of factors:
- High Fertility Rates: Historically, India has had high fertility rates, with women giving birth to a large number of children. This is influenced by socio-cultural factors like preference for sons, women’s limited access to education and employment, and lack of awareness/access to family planning methods.
- Declining Mortality Rates: Improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and nutrition have led to a significant decline in infant and child mortality rates. This has resulted in a larger proportion of the population surviving to reproductive age.
- Early Marriages: Early marriages, particularly among women, contribute to higher fertility rates as they limit educational and economic opportunities for women.
- Lack of Access to Family Planning: Despite government efforts, access to and utilization of contraceptives and other family planning methods remain limited in certain regions due to lack of awareness, availability, and affordability.
- Poverty and Illiteracy: Poverty and illiteracy are often correlated with higher fertility rates. Lack of education and awareness about family planning methods contribute to this.
- Socio-cultural Factors: In some regions, large family size is still considered a sign of prosperity and social status, contributing to higher fertility rates.
Addressing these issues requires a multi-pronged approach, including:
- Promoting family planning: Increasing access to and utilization of contraceptives and other family planning methods.
- Improving women’s education and empowerment: Empowering women through education and economic opportunities can lead to lower fertility rates.
- Addressing poverty and illiteracy: Implementing programs to reduce poverty and improve access to education can help in controlling population growth.
- Raising awareness about family planning: Conducting awareness campaigns to educate people about the benefits of family planning.
- Delaying age at marriage: Promoting delayed marriage and childbearing through social and legal interventions.
2. Describe the causes for low productivity in agriculture.
Low agricultural productivity is a persistent challenge in many developing countries, including India. Several factors contribute to this issue:
- Land Fragmentation: Small and fragmented landholdings limit the adoption of modern farming techniques and mechanization, leading to lower yields.
- Lack of Irrigation: Inadequate irrigation facilities make agriculture heavily dependent on rainfall, leading to crop failures during droughts.
- Limited Access to Credit and Inputs: Farmers often lack access to affordable credit and quality inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, hindering their ability to invest in productive farming.
- Poor Infrastructure: Inadequate roads, transportation, and storage facilities increase the cost of transporting produce to markets and lead to post-harvest losses.
- Lack of Skill Development: Farmers often lack the knowledge and skills required for modern agricultural practices, including crop rotation, pest management, and soil conservation.
- Market Imperfections: Farmers often face price volatility and low prices for their produce due to imperfect market conditions and lack of access to market information.
- Lack of Diversification: Over-reliance on a few crops makes farmers vulnerable to price fluctuations and natural disasters.
- Environmental Factors: Soil degradation, water scarcity, and climate change pose significant challenges to agricultural productivity.
Addressing these issues requires a multi-pronged approach, including land consolidation, improving irrigation infrastructure, providing access to credit and inputs, developing rural infrastructure, promoting skill development, strengthening market linkages, and promoting diversification.
3. Analyze critically the characteristics of developing economies with special reference to India
- Low Per Capita Income: Developing economies have low per capita income compared to developed economies.
- High Population Growth: Population growth rates are often high in developing economies, putting pressure on resources and infrastructure.
- High Poverty Rates: Poverty is a significant challenge in developing economies, with a large proportion of the population living below the poverty line.
- Dependence on Agriculture: Agriculture is often the primary source of employment and income in developing economies.
- High Unemployment and Underemployment: Unemployment and underemployment are common problems in developing economies.
- Low Levels of Industrialization: Industrialization is often limited in developing economies, leading to dependence on primary sector activities.
- High Inequality: Income and wealth inequality are often high in developing economies.
- Vulnerability to External Shocks: Developing economies are often vulnerable to external shocks, such as fluctuations in commodity prices and global economic downturns.
India shares many of these characteristics. It has a low per capita income, high population growth, high poverty rates, and a large agricultural sector. While India has made significant progress in industrialization, it still faces challenges such as unemployment, underemployment, and inequality.
4. How do you reduce inequalities in the distribution of income and wealth?
Reducing inequalities in the distribution of income and wealth requires a multi-pronged approach:
- Progressive Taxation: Implementing progressive taxation policies, where higher income earners pay a higher percentage of their income as tax.
- Social Welfare Programs: Providing social welfare programs, such as subsidized education, healthcare, and housing, to benefit low-income households.
- Minimum Wage Legislation: Implementing minimum wage laws to ensure that workers receive a fair wage.
- Land Reforms: Implementing land reforms to ensure equitable distribution of land among farmers.
- Promoting Inclusive Growth: Promoting economic growth that benefits all segments of society, not just the wealthy.
- Strengthening Labor Unions: Empowering labor unions to negotiate better wages and working conditions for workers.
- Reducing Corruption: Reducing corruption in government and public institutions to ensure that resources are used efficiently and equitably.
- Promoting Education and Skill Development: Investing in education and skill development to equip people with the skills needed to participate in the workforce and earn a decent living.
Implementing these policies requires a strong political will and commitment to social justice.
5. Explain the importance of agriculture in the Indian economy.
Agriculture plays a crucial role in the Indian economy:
- Food Security: Agriculture is the primary source of food for the Indian population. It ensures food security for the nation.
- Employment: Agriculture provides employment to a large section of the population, especially in rural areas.
- Rural Development: Agricultural development is crucial for rural development and poverty reduction.
- Foreign Exchange Earnings: Agricultural exports contribute to foreign exchange earnings.
- Raw Material for Industries: Agriculture provides raw materials for various industries, such as food processing, textiles, and pharmaceuticals.
- Contribution to GDP: Agriculture contributes significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of India.
6. Briefly explain the development and welfare programs of the government of Telangana.
The Government of Telangana has implemented numerous development and welfare programs aimed at improving the lives of its citizens. Some key programs include:
- Rythu Bandhu: A flagship program providing financial assistance to farmers to support agricultural activities.
- KCR Kits: A scheme providing comprehensive maternity kits to pregnant women and lactating mothers.
- Kanti Velugu: A program for free eye check-ups and surgeries for people of all ages.
- Mission Bhagiratha: A massive project to provide safe and adequate drinking water to all households in the state.
- Kalyana Lakshmi/Shadi Mubarak: Financial assistance to women upon marriage.
- Dalit Bandhu: A program providing financial assistance to Dalit families for their economic empowerment.
- KCR Farmer Market: A network of markets providing farmers with a platform to sell their produce directly to consumers at fair prices.
- Haritha Haram: A greening initiative aimed at increasing forest cover and improving the environment.
These programs have had a significant impact on improving the livelihoods of people in Telangana, especially in rural areas.
7. Critically examine the Industrial Policy Resolution, 1991.
The Industrial Policy Resolution, 1991 was a landmark policy that marked a shift from the previous inward-looking approach to a more market-oriented approach to industrial development. Key features of the policy include:
- Deregulation: The policy aimed to deregulate industries and reduce government control.
- Privatization: The policy encouraged the privatization of public sector enterprises.
- Foreign Investment: The policy opened up the economy to foreign investment.
- Competition: The policy aimed to promote competition among industries.
- Focus on Infrastructure: The policy emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure to support industrial growth.
The Industrial Policy Resolution, 1991 paved the way for economic liberalization and has been instrumental in driving India’s economic growth in recent decades. However, critics argue that the policy has led to increased inequality and job losses in the informal sector.
SECTION B (8 x 5 = 40)
Note: (i) Answer ANY EIGHT of the following questions in 20 lines each. (ii) Each question carries FIVE marks.
8. Examine the different types of unemployment.
Unemployment refers to the situation where individuals actively seeking employment are unable to find work. There are several types of unemployment:
- Cyclical Unemployment: This type is caused by fluctuations in the business cycle. During economic downturns, demand for labor falls, leading to job losses.
- Structural Unemployment: This occurs due to structural changes in the economy, such as technological advancements that make certain skills obsolete, leading to job displacement.
- Frictional Unemployment: This is a temporary type of unemployment that occurs when individuals are transitioning between jobs, such as when they are searching for a new job after quitting or being laid off.
- Seasonal Unemployment: This type is associated with seasonal variations in demand for labor, such as in the tourism or agriculture sectors.
- Disguised Unemployment: This is prevalent in agriculture, where more people are employed than are actually needed to produce the output.
9. Examine the causes for poverty in India.
Poverty in India is a complex issue with multiple causes:
- Low Income and Inequality: Unequal distribution of income and wealth, coupled with low wages and limited employment opportunities, contribute significantly to poverty.
- Lack of Access to Resources: Limited access to basic necessities like food, education, healthcare, and clean water further exacerbates poverty.
- Social Exclusion: Discrimination based on caste, religion, gender, and other factors can lead to social exclusion and limit opportunities for marginalized groups.
- Illiteracy and Lack of Skills: Low levels of education and skills limit employment opportunities and earning potential, trapping individuals in poverty.
- Environmental Degradation: Environmental issues like soil erosion, deforestation, and climate change can impact agricultural productivity and livelihoods, leading to poverty.
- Lack of Social Safety Nets: Inadequate social safety nets, such as unemployment benefits and social security programs, fail to provide adequate support to vulnerable populations.
These are just some of the key factors contributing to poverty in India. Addressing poverty requires a multi-pronged approach, including economic growth, social inclusion, and targeted interventions to improve access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.
10. Write a note on NITI Aayog.
NITI Aayog, or the National Institution for Transforming India, is a policy think tank of the Government of India, established in 2015. It replaced the Planning Commission,
11. What are the causes of rural indebtedness?
Rural indebtedness is a significant issue in India, driven by various factors:
- Low Incomes: Low agricultural incomes and lack of alternative sources of income force farmers to borrow to meet their basic needs and invest in agricultural activities.
- High Input Costs: The cost of agricultural inputs, such as seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, has been rising, putting a strain on farmers’ finances.
- Lack of Access to Credit: Farmers often lack access to formal credit from banks and financial institutions, forcing them to rely on informal sources of credit, which often charge high interest rates.
- Natural Disasters: Natural disasters, such as droughts and floods, can destroy crops and livestock, leading to losses and indebtedness.
- Market Fluctuations: Price fluctuations in agricultural commodities can lead to income losses and indebtedness.
- Social Customs: Social customs, such as dowry and weddings, can also contribute to rural indebtedness.
12. Suggest measures for survival and growth of small scale industries.
Small scale industries (SSIs) play a crucial role in the Indian economy. Measures for their survival and growth include:
- Access to Finance: Providing easier access to credit and financial assistance through schemes like MUDRA loans.
- Market Access: Strengthening market linkages by improving infrastructure, providing access to market information, and organizing trade fairs.
- Skill Development: Promoting skill development programs to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of SSI workers.
- Technology Upgradation: Encouraging the adoption of modern technology and machinery to improve efficiency and quality.
- Government Support: Providing subsidies, tax incentives, and other forms of government support to promote the growth of SSIs.
- Simplifying Regulations: Reducing the burden of government regulations and streamlining procedures to facilitate business operations.
13. Distinguish between economic development and economic growth.
Economic growth refers to an increase in the production of goods and services in an economy over time.
Economic development is a broader concept that encompasses not just economic growth, but also social progress and improvement in the overall well-being of the population. It focuses on qualitative aspects such as:
- Poverty reduction: Reducing poverty and ensuring a decent standard of living for all citizens.
- Income distribution: Reducing income inequality and ensuring equitable distribution of wealth.
- Social development: Improving access to education, healthcare, and other social services.
- Environmental sustainability: Promoting sustainable development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet
their own needs. - Human development: Enhancing human capabilities and well-being, such as improving health, education, and living standards.
In summary: Economic growth is a necessary but not sufficient condition for economic development. While economic growth can lead to increased
14. What are the defects of agricultural marketing in India?
Agricultural marketing in India suffers from several defects:
- Market Imperfections: Lack of proper infrastructure, inadequate storage facilities, and poor market information lead to price volatility and low prices for farmers.
- Middlemen Exploitation: The presence of intermediaries in the supply chain often exploits farmers by offering low prices for their produce.
- Lack of Market Access: Farmers, especially in remote areas, often lack access to markets and face difficulties in transporting their produce.
- Post-Harvest Losses: Inadequate storage and transportation facilities lead to significant post-harvest losses, reducing farmers’ income.
15. What is planning? Explain.
Planning refers to the process of setting goals, formulating strategies, and allocating resources to achieve desired objectives. In the context of economic development, planning involves the government setting targets for economic growth, employment, and social development, and formulating policies and programs to achieve these goals. Planning can be centralized, where the government plays a dominant role, or decentralized, involving greater participation from stakeholders.
16. What are the types of non-renewable energy sources?
Non-renewable energy sources are those that exist in finite quantities and cannot be replenished at a rate that keeps pace with consumption. Examples include:
- Fossil Fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas are the most common non-renewable energy sources. They are widely used for electricity generation, transportation, and industrial processes.
- Nuclear Energy: Nuclear power plants use nuclear fission to generate electricity.
17. Describe the family planning programme in India.
India has implemented various family planning programs to control population growth. These programs aim to:
- Promote awareness: Educate people about the benefits of family planning and responsible reproductive behavior.
- Improve access: Increase access to contraceptives and family planning services, especially in rural areas.
- Empower women: Empower women through education and economic opportunities, which can lead to lower fertility rates.
- Address social and cultural factors: Address social and cultural factors that influence fertility rates, such as early marriage and preference for sons.
These programs have contributed to a decline in fertility rates in India, but challenges remain in ensuring access and utilization of family planning services across all sections of the population.
18. What are the major objectives of LIC?
LIC, or Life Insurance Corporation of India, is a state-owned insurance company. Its major objectives include:
- Providing life insurance and related services: Offering a wide range of life insurance products, including term insurance, endowment plans, and pension plans.
- Mobilizing savings: Mobilizing savings from the public and channeling them into long-term investments.
- Promoting financial inclusion: Making insurance accessible to a wider section of the population, including low-income households.
- Nation-building: Contributing to nation-building by investing in infrastructure projects and supporting economic development.
- Social security: Providing social security to policyholders by offering financial protection in case of unforeseen events.
19. Assess the role of international trade on the Indian economy.
International trade plays a crucial role in the Indian economy:
- Economic Growth: Trade provides access to a wider market for Indian goods and services, boosting exports and contributing to economic growth.
- Technology Transfer: International trade facilitates the transfer of technology and knowledge, leading to improvements in productivity and competitiveness.
- Competition: International trade promotes competition among domestic firms, leading to better quality products and services.
- Employment Generation: Trade creates employment opportunities in export-oriented sectors.
- Foreign Exchange Earnings: Exports generate foreign exchange earnings, which are essential for financing imports and reducing dependence on foreign aid.
However, international trade also presents challenges such as competition from foreign imports and the risk of trade deficits.
20. Analyse the causes for unemployment in India.
Unemployment is a significant challenge in India, driven by various factors:
- Slow Economic Growth: Slow economic growth leads to a decline in job creation, resulting in higher unemployment rates.
- Rapid Population Growth: Rapid population growth puts pressure on the job market, leading to increased competition for limited jobs.
- Structural Changes in the Economy: Technological advancements and changes in industrial structure can lead to job displacement and structural unemployment.
- Inadequate Skill Development: Lack of adequate skills and training among the workforce can make it difficult for individuals to find suitable employment.
- Regional Imbalances: Uneven development across regions leads to higher unemployment rates in certain areas.
- Demographic Factors: A large youth population entering the workforce can increase the pressure on the job market.
21. Discuss the types of pollutions.
Pollution refers to the contamination of the environment with harmful substances. There are various types of pollution:
- Air Pollution: Contamination of the air with harmful substances, such as particulate matter, gases, and chemicals.
- Water Pollution: Contamination of water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, and oceans, with pollutants like industrial waste, sewage, and agricultural runoff.
- Soil Pollution: Contamination of soil with harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, fertilizers, and industrial waste.
- Noise Pollution: Excessive and unwanted noise that can cause hearing loss and other health problems.
- Light Pollution: Excessive artificial light at night, which can disrupt natural ecosystems and human health.
- Radioactive Pollution: Contamination of the environment with radioactive materials.
22. Explain the concept of human resource development and its importance.
Human Resource Development (HRD) refers to the systematic and continuous process of improving the skills, knowledge, and abilities of employees within an organization. It encompasses a range of activities aimed at enhancing individual and organizational performance.
Key aspects of HRD include:
- Training and Development: Providing employees with opportunities to learn new skills, acquire knowledge, and develop their competencies through training programs, workshops, and other learning initiatives.
- Career Development: Assisting employees in planning and managing their careers by providing guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement.
- Performance Management: Setting clear performance expectations, providing regular feedback, and recognizing and rewarding employee contributions.
- Organizational Development: Fostering a positive and supportive work environment that encourages employee growth and development.
Importance of HRD:
- Increased Productivity: Skilled and knowledgeable employees are more productive and efficient, leading to higher organizational performance.
- Enhanced Employee Morale: HRD initiatives can boost employee morale, motivation, and engagement, leading to increased job satisfaction and reduced turnover.
- Improved Competitiveness: A skilled and adaptable workforce is essential for organizations to compete effectively in today’s dynamic business environment.
- Organizational Growth: HRD contributes to the overall growth and development of the organization by ensuring that it has the talent and capabilities to achieve its strategic goals.
- Employee Development: HRD provides opportunities for employees to grow and develop their careers, leading to personal and professional fulfillment.
23. Write a brief note on education profile of the state.
The education profile of a state provides a comprehensive overview of the status of education within that region. It encompasses various indicators such as:
- Literacy Rates: Percentage of the population above a certain age who can read and write.
- Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER): The ratio of students enrolled in a particular level of education to the total population of that age group.
- Dropout Rates: The percentage of students who leave school before completing their education.
- Teacher-Student Ratio: The ratio of teachers to students in schools.
- School Infrastructure: Availability and quality of schools, classrooms, and other educational facilities.
- Quality of Education: The level of learning outcomes and academic performance of students.
The education profile of a state is crucial for understanding its human capital development, addressing educational challenges, and formulating effective education policies.
24. Why should we protect the environment?
Protecting the environment is crucial for the survival and well-being of all living beings, including humans. Here are some key reasons:
- Clean Air and Water: A healthy environment provides clean air and water, which are essential for human health.
- Biodiversity: Protecting the environment helps preserve biodiversity, which is essential for the stability of ecosystems.
- Climate Change: Protecting the environment is crucial for mitigating climate change and its impacts.
- Natural Resources: The environment provides us with natural resources, such as forests, minerals, and water, which are essential for our survival and development.
- Quality of Life: A healthy environment contributes to a better quality of life, providing us with opportunities for recreation and enjoyment.
25. Discuss the importance of Kaleshwaram project.
The Kaleshwaram Project is a massive irrigation project in Telangana, India. It aims to divert water from the Godavari River to irrigate drought-prone areas in the state. The project is considered important for several reasons:
- Irrigation: It will provide irrigation to millions of acres of land, boosting agricultural production and improving food security.
- Drinking Water: The project will also supply drinking water to many areas facing water scarcity.
- Hydropower Generation: The project will generate hydropower, contributing to the state’s energy needs.
- Industrial Development: The project will facilitate industrial development by providing water for industrial use.
- Flood Control: The project will also help in flood control by regulating water flow in the Godavari River.
SECTION C (15 x 2 = 30)
Note: (i) Answer ANY FIFTEEN of the following questions in 5 lines each. (ii) Each question carries TWO marks.
Janani Suraksha Yojana is a government-sponsored program in India that provides cash incentives to pregnant women and lactating mothers to encourage institutional deliveries and improve maternal and child health. It aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates by promoting institutional deliveries and providing financial assistance to
27. Population explosion
Population explosion refers to a rapid and uncontrolled increase in population. It can strain resources, lead to environmental degradation, and exacerbate poverty and unemployment. Factors contributing to population explosion include high birth rates, declining mortality rates, and limited access to family planning.
28. Self-reliance
Self-reliance is the ability of a country to meet its own needs and requirements without depending on external assistance or imports. It emphasizes economic independence and self-sufficiency. Strategies to achieve self-reliance include promoting domestic production, developing indigenous technologies, and reducing dependence on imports.
29. Marketable surplus of agriculture
Marketable surplus refers to the portion of agricultural produce that is sold in the market after meeting the farmer’s own consumption needs. It is the surplus available for trade and commercial purposes. Increasing marketable surplus is crucial for improving farmers’ incomes and ensuring food security.
30. Per capita income
Per capita income is the average income earned per person in a country or region. It is calculated by dividing the total income of a country by its population. Per capita income is an important indicator of economic development and living standards.
31. Infant mortality rate
The infant mortality rate is the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births. It is a key indicator of a country’s health and development. A high infant mortality rate indicates poor healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation conditions.
32. Inclusive growth
Inclusive growth refers to economic growth that benefits all segments of society, not just a select few. It emphasizes reducing inequality and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress are shared equitably among all citizens.
33. Green revolution
The Green Revolution refers to a period of significant increases in agricultural productivity in the mid-20th century, primarily due to the introduction of high-yielding varieties of crops, improved irrigation, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides.
34. National income
National income is the total value of goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a given period. It is a key measure of a country’s economic output and well-being.
35. Grading
Grading is the process of classifying and categorizing agricultural products based on their quality, size, and other characteristics. Grading helps to ensure quality and facilitates fair trade by providing a common standard for buyers and sellers.
36. Agricultural productivity
Agricultural productivity refers to the output per unit of input in agriculture. It is influenced by factors such as technology, irrigation, use of inputs, and farming practices. Improving agricultural productivity is crucial for increasing food production and improving farmers’ incomes.
37. Balanced regional development
Balanced regional development refers to the equitable distribution of economic growth and development across different regions of a country. It aims to reduce regional disparities and ensure that all regions benefit from economic progress.
38. Food security
Food security exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and
39. Tertiary sector
The tertiary sector, also known as the service sector, includes all economic activities that provide services rather than goods. Examples include education, healthcare, tourism, banking, and transportation.
40. Balance of payments
The balance of payments is a record of all economic transactions between a country and the rest of the world over a specific period.
41. Ecosystem
An ecosystem is a community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms) interacting with each other and their physical environment.