Poverty, Unemployment and Human Development – Economics Questions Asked in SSC & Railway Exams (PYQs with Answers)

SSC Stenographer 2026 – 12 September 2026 Shift 2 · Types of unemployment

Q1. The high percentage of cultivators in rural India signifies which structural problem?

(a) Disguised unemployment
(b) Educational backwardness
(c) Urban migration
(d) Higher wages

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Disguised unemployment

Answer: Option 1 — Disguised unemployment
When far more people work a plot than the plot needs, the extra hands add nothing to output — their marginal productivity is zero — yet they appear employed.
Indian agriculture carries about 46 per cent of the workforce but produces only about 18 per cent of GVA; that gap is the signature of disguised unemployment.
Revision note — Types of unemployment
• Disguised (hidden): more workers than needed, marginal product zero; typical of rural agriculture and family enterprises.
• Seasonal: work exists only in certain months — sowing and harvesting, sugar mills, tourism.
• Structural: a mismatch between the skills available and the skills demanded, as when technology changes.
• Frictional: the short gap while moving between jobs; cyclical: caused by a downturn in demand, more common in industrial economies.
• Open unemployment is visible and counted; educated unemployment is high among graduates in India.
• The NSSO / PLFS measure unemployment by three yardsticks — Usual Status (365 days), Current Weekly Status (7 days) and Current Daily Status.
• Census 2011 counted 11.9 crore cultivators and 14.4 crore agricultural labourers; MGNREGA (2005) and diversification into agro-industry are the standard remedies.
Do not mix these up
• Disguised unemployment vs underemployment — underemployment means working below capacity (hours, skill or pay); disguised unemployment is its extreme case where the extra worker contributes nothing.
• Disguised vs seasonal — the disguised worker is surplus all year; the seasonal worker is idle only in the off-season.
Also asked from this topic: the sector where disguised unemployment is found (agriculture); its defining feature (marginal productivity of the extra worker = zero); working below capacity (underemployment).

SSC Stenographer 2026 – 11 September 2026 Shift 2 · Types of unemployment

Q2. Which of the following best captures the structural reasons behind the phenomenon of 'jobless growth' in India, particularly in the post-1991 reform period?

(a) Excessive investment in agriculture and primary sector productivity
(b) High population growth rate exceeding labor force demand
(c) A growth model led by capital-intensive and service sectors with limited employment elasticity
(d) Deliberate government policy to curb rural employment in favor of urbanization

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) A growth model led by capital-intensive and service sectors with limited employment elasticity

Answer: Option 3 — A growth model led by capital-intensive and service sectors with limited employment elasticity
Jobless growth means GDP grows fast but jobs do not grow in proportion.
After 1991 India's growth came from services (IT, finance, telecom) and capital-intensive manufacturing, both of which add output with very few extra workers — a low employment elasticity.
Revision note — Jobless growth and employment in India
• Employment elasticity = percentage change in employment ÷ percentage change in GDP; India's fell from about 0.5 in the 1980s to below 0.2 after the mid-1990s, which is the arithmetic behind jobless growth.
• The structural reasons: growth led by skill-intensive services, automation and capital-intensive industry, rigid labour laws that discouraged hiring, and a weak labour-intensive manufacturing base.
• Where the workers are: agriculture still employs about 45 per cent of the workforce but produces under 20 per cent of GDP, so labour stays stuck in low-productivity farming.
• About 90 per cent of Indian workers are in the informal (unorganised) sector without written contracts or social security.
• Employment is measured by the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) of the NSO, using Usual Status (365-day reference), Current Weekly Status and Current Daily Status.
• Policy responses: MGNREGA (2005) for rural wage employment, Skill India (2015), PLI schemes (2020) to revive labour-intensive manufacturing.
Do not mix these up
• Jobless growth vs disguised unemployment — jobless growth is output rising without jobs; disguised unemployment is more hands than the work needs, so the marginal product is zero, as on Indian farms.
• Structural vs cyclical unemployment — structural comes from a mismatch of skills with the jobs the economy creates; cyclical comes from a downturn in demand.
Also asked from this topic: why the 1991 reforms are linked with jobless growth (GDP growth without proportional employment); the reference period of the Usual Status measure of unemployment (365 days).

SSC Stenographer 2026 – 10 September 2026 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q3. Which of the following is NOT a dimension of HDI?

(a) Life expectancy
(b) Educational attainment
(c) Per capita income
(d) Pollution levels

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Pollution levels

Answer: Option 4 — Pollution levels
The HDI is built from only three dimensions — a long and healthy life, knowledge, and a decent standard of living.
Pollution belongs to environmental indices, not to the HDI.
Revision note — Human Development Index
• The HDI is published by the UNDP in its Human Development Report, first brought out in 1990.
• It was designed by the Pakistani economist Mahbub-ul-Haq with Amartya Sen, whose capability approach gave it its theoretical base.
• Health is measured by life expectancy at birth; education by mean years of schooling (adults 25+) and expected years of schooling.
• Standard of living is measured by GNI per capita at purchasing power parity.
• The value runs from 0 to 1 and is the geometric mean of the three dimension indices; the bands are very high (0.800 and above), high, medium and low (below 0.550).
• The Inequality-adjusted HDI, the Gender Inequality Index and the Multidimensional Poverty Index were all introduced in the 2010 Human Development Report.
• India's HDI value was 0.685 in the Human Development Report 2025, ranking it 130th of 193 countries; this figure changes with every report, so quote it with its year.
Do not mix these up
• HDI vs MPI — the HDI measures average achievement in health, education and income; the Multidimensional Poverty Index counts the people who are deprived on those counts.
• HDI vs PQLI — the Physical Quality of Life Index uses literacy, infant mortality and life expectancy at age one, and leaves income out altogether.
Also asked from this topic: the three components of the HDI (education, income and life expectancy); what the Education Index uses (mean and expected years of schooling); the body that publishes it (UNDP).

SSC Stenographer 2026 – 10 September 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q4. Which of the following features is common to both the Happiness Index and HDI in determining a country's rank?

(a) Economic inequality
(b) Internet availability
(c) Life expectancy
(d) National defense expenditure

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Life expectancy

Answer: Option 3 — Life expectancy
Both indices measure a country's health by how long its people live.
The HDI uses life expectancy at birth; the World Happiness Report uses healthy life expectancy.
Revision note — HDI and the Happiness Index
• The HDI is published by the UNDP in the Human Development Report, first issued in 1990; it was designed by Mahbub ul Haq with Amartya Sen.
• HDI has three dimensions — health (life expectancy at birth), education (mean and expected years of schooling) and standard of living (GNI per capita, PPP).
• The Inequality-adjusted HDI (IHDI) came in the 2010 report, along with the Multidimensional Poverty Index and the Gender Inequality Index.
• The World Happiness Report is published by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) — not the UNDP — using Gallup World Poll survey data.
• It explains happiness through six variables: GDP per capita, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity and perceptions of corruption.
• Finland has topped the World Happiness Report every year since 2018; in the 2024 report Afghanistan was last.
Do not mix these up
• HDI vs World Happiness Report — the HDI is UNDP data on health, education and income; the Happiness Report is UN SDSN and rests largely on self-reported life evaluations.
• Life expectancy at birth vs healthy life expectancy — the HDI counts all years lived; the Happiness Report counts only the years expected to be lived in good health.
Also asked from this topic: the three dimensions of the HDI (education, income, life expectancy); the least happy country in the 2024 World Happiness Report (Afghanistan).

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 18 August 2026 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q5. In 2026, the Government of India promoted green hydrogen initiatives mainly to support which SDG?

(a) SDG 2 – Zero Hunger
(b) SDG 15 – Life on Land
(c) SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
(d) SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy

Green Hydrogen and SDG 7
India's green hydrogen initiatives (e.g., the National Green Hydrogen Mission) are aligned mainly withSDG 7 — Affordable and Clean Energy, which targets increasing the share of renewable and clean energy sources.
This is a well-established mapping in India's official SDG/energy-policy communications and does not depend on a single 2026 event, so no additional search evidence beyond standard SDG-goal alignment was needed.
Correct Answer: SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 18 August 2026 Shift 3 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q6. In April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched a five-year biodiversity governance project aimed at “greening” Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs). This initiative is most directly associated with which SDG?

(a) SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
(b) SDG 2 – Zero Hunger
(c) SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
(d) SDG 15 – Life on Land

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) SDG 15 – Life on Land

MoEFCC Biodiversity Governance Project — SDG Linkage
In April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), along with the National Biodiversity Authority (NBA), launched a five-year project to strengthen grassroots biodiversity governance (initially in Tamil Nadu and Meghalaya) by integrating biodiversity concerns into Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs) — confirmed by news reports (Construction World, Chronicle India, India Education Diary).
Biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems directly corresponds toSDG 15 – Life on Land.
Correct Answer: SDG 15 – Life on Land

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 17 August 2026 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q7. According to the MoSPI bulletin "Planet in Focus," which specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) represents India's progress in clean water and sanitation in 2026?

(a) SDG 5
(b) SDG 7
(c) SDG 6
(d) SDG 8

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) SDG 6

MoSPI 'Planet in Focus' Bulletin - SDGs
MoSPI (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation) released SDG bulletins including 'Planet in Focus,' tracking India's progress on environment-related Sustainable Development Goals.SDG 6is globally designated as "Clean Water and Sanitation," and India's progress on this goal is reported under SDG 6 in the bulletin.
Correct Answer: SDG 6 (Option 3)

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 13 August 2026 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q8. During the severe heatwave conditions reported in 2026, India accounted for 95 of the world’s 100 hottest cities, highlighting growing concerns regarding rising temperatures and climate-related risks. This issue is most directly associated with which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the United Nations?

(a) SDG 15
(b) SDG 11
(c) SDG 13
(d) SDG 6

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) SDG 13

Answer: Option 3 – SDG 13.
• Rising heat/climate risks relate most directly toSDG 13 (Climate Action).

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 4 August 2026 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q9. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, under which more than 26 lakh households had benefited by December 2025, contributes most directly to which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) through promotion of rooftop solar energy and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels?

(a) SDG 15
(b) SDG 7
(c) SDG 12
(d) SDG 9

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) SDG 7

Answer: Option 2 — SDG 7
Rooftop solar (PM Surya Ghar) supportsSDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy→ Option 2.

RRB Group D 2025-26 – 3 August 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q10. According to the Economic Survey 2025–26, India’s extreme poverty rate for 2022–23, based on the revised international poverty line, was estimated at what level?

(a) 14.9%
(b) 8.7%
(c) 11.2%
(d) 5.3%

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 5.3%

Answer: Option 4 — 5.3%
Per the Economic Survey 2025–26, India's extreme poverty rate for 2022–23 (revised international poverty line) was estimated at about5.3%→ Option 4.
*(2026 current-affairs item — verify against the official answer key.)*

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q11. Which of the following organisations releases the National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) in India?

(a) Union Public Service Commission
(b) Reserve Bank of India
(c) Bureau of Indian Standards
(d) NITI Aayog

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) NITI Aayog

National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
Released by:NITI Aayogin collaboration with UNDP and OPHI (Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative).
First released: November 2021
Measures poverty across 12 indicators: health, education, and standard of living.
Answer: Option 4 → NITI Aayog

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q12. The Human Development Index (HDI) rankings are based on a score between _________.

(a) 1 to 2
(b) 0 to 1
(c) 0 to 5
(d) 1 to 10

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 0 to 1

Human Development Index (HDI)
HDI is a composite index measuring average achievement
in three basic dimensions of human development:
• Health (Life expectancy)
• Education (Mean & expected years of schooling)
• Standard of living (GNI per capita)
HDI Score Range: 0 to 1
• 0 = Lowest human development
• 1 = Highest human development
Published annually by UNDP in Human Development Report
Answer: Option 2 → 0 to 1

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 June 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q13. When was the Rangarajan Committee constituted to review the Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in India?

(a) 2012
(b) 2010
(c) 2014
(d) 2008

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2012

Rangarajan Committee on Poverty Measurement
The committee was constituted inJune 2012by the Planning Commission.
Chairman:Dr. C. Rangarajan(former RBI Governor)
Purpose: To review methodology for measuring poverty in India and suggest changes to the Tendulkar Committee approach.
The committee submitted its report inJune 2014.
Answer: Option 1 → 2012

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 June 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q14. How did the Rangarajan Group recommend updating the poverty line in the future?

(a) By relying on the National Accounts Statistics
(b) By using the Fisher Index with data from NSSO
(c) By removing the concept of poverty line altogether
(d) By using a relative poverty measure compared to an absolute measure

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) By using the Fisher Index with data from NSSO

Topic: Rangarajan Committee on Poverty Estimation (2014)
The Rangarajan Group was constituted to review poverty estimation methodology in India.
Key Recommendation:
The committee recommended using theFisher Price Indexfor updating the poverty line.
Data source:NSSO (National Sample Survey Office)consumption expenditure surveys.
Fisher Index = Geometric mean of Laspeyres and Paasche indices, providing better price adjustment.
This replaced the earlier Tendulkar Committee's approach.
Answer: Option 2 → By using the Fisher Index with data from NSSO

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 17 June 2026 Shift 2 · Types of unemployment

Q15. Which of the following best describes ‘disguised unemployment’ in the Indian context?

(a) Workers shift from one job to another frequently.
(b) Workers are temporarily unemployed during economic slowdown.
(c) Workers are not willing to work.
(d) More people are employed than actually needed, with marginal productivity being zero.

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) More people are employed than actually needed, with marginal productivity being zero.

Topic: Disguised Unemployment
Definition:A situation where more people are engaged in work than actually required, and removing some workers does not affect total output.
Key Features:
• Marginal productivity of extra workers = zero
• Common in Indian agriculture and family businesses
• Example: 5 people working on a farm that needs only 3
Indian Context:Prevalent in rural agricultural sector where family members work on small landholdings even when their contribution to output is negligible.
Answer: Option 4 → More people are employed than actually needed, with marginal productivity being zero.

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 June 2026 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q16. What is GII in the context of Human Development?

(a) Gender Inability Index
(b) Gender Inequality Index
(c) General Inequality Index
(d) Gender Inequality Information

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Gender Inequality Index

GII in Human Development
GII stands forGender Inequality Index.
It is a composite measure introduced by UNDP in 2010.
Reflects gender-based disadvantages in reproductive health, empowerment, and labor market participation.
Answer: Option 2 → Gender Inequality Index

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 June 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q17. The 20-Point Economic Programme was initially launched in 1975 primarily to:

(a) Reduce government borrowing
(b) Liberalize trade policies
(c) Promote foreign direct investment
(d) Accelerate socio-economic reforms

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Accelerate socio-economic reforms

20-Point Economic Programme (1975)
Launched by: Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during Emergency
Primary Objectives:
• Poverty alleviation and social justice
• Land reforms and redistribution
• Minimum wages for agricultural laborers
• Abolition of bonded labor
• Housing for landless and weaker sections
Focus: Direct intervention for socio-economic upliftment of poor and marginalized sections of society.
Answer: Option 4 → Accelerate socio-economic reforms

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 16 June 2026 Shift 3 · Human capital formation

Q18. The concept of Gross Enrolment Ratio belongs to the __________.

(a) health sector
(b) education sector
(c) transport sector
(d) banking sector

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) education sector

Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER)
Definition: Total enrolment in a specific level of education (regardless of age) expressed as a percentage of the eligible official school-age population.
Used to measure: Access to education and participation rates in primary, secondary, and higher education.
Key indicator: UNESCO and education ministries use GER to assess educational development and coverage.
Answer: Option 2 → education sector

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q19. Which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) specifically aims to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all?

(a) Goal 7
(b) Goal 5
(c) Goal 13
(d) Goal 9

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Goal 7

Topic:Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
Aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable,
sustainable and modern energy for all by 2030.
Other Goals:
Goal 5 → Gender Equality
Goal 9 → Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
Goal 13 → Climate Action
Answer: Option 1 → Goal 7

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 15 June 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q20. Which three indicators are considered while calculating the Human Development Index (HDI)?

(a) Industrial production, exports, and imports
(b) GDP, inflation rate, and unemployment rate
(c) Life expectancy, education, and per capita income
(d) Foreign exchange reserves, literacy rate, and poverty rate

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Life expectancy, education, and per capita income

Human Development Index (HDI)
HDI is a composite index developed by UNDP to measure human development across countries.
Three Key Indicators:
1.Life Expectancy at Birth→ Health dimension
2.Education→ Mean years of schooling + Expected years of schooling
3.Per Capita Income (GNI)→ Standard of living dimension
HDI focuses on people-centric development, not just economic growth.
Answer: Option 3 → Life expectancy, education, and per capita income

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 14 June 2026 Shift 3 · Population and demographic dividend

Q21. According to World Population Prospects, 2024, what is the estimated peak of the world’s population in the mid-2080s?

(a) 8.2 billion
(b) 9.5 billion
(c) 11.1 billion
(d) 10.3 billion

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 10.3 billion

Topic: World Population Prospects 2024
UN Report: World Population Prospects 2024
Key Projection: Global population expected to peak in mid-2080s at approximately10.3 billion
Current population (2024): ~8.2 billion
Growth will slow and stabilize by 2080s due to declining fertility rates globally
Answer: Option 4 → 10.3 billion

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 13 June 2026 Shift 2 · Types of unemployment

Q22. Which type of unemployment is caused by a decline in aggregate demand during economic downturns?

(a) Structural
(b) Voluntary
(c) Cyclical
(d) Seasonal

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Cyclical

Types of Unemployment:
Cyclical Unemployment- Caused by fluctuations in economic cycle and decline in aggregate demand during recessions/downturns.
Structural- Mismatch between skills and job requirements.
Seasonal- Due to seasonal nature of work (agriculture, tourism).
Voluntary- When workers choose not to work at prevailing wage.
During economic downturns, demand falls → businesses reduce production → workers laid off → cyclical unemployment rises.
Answer: Option 3 → Cyclical

SSC GD 2026 – 29 May 2026 Shift 3 · Population and demographic dividend

Q23. As per report of Technical Group on Population Projections, the population of older ages (60 years and above) is projected to increase to _____ crores in 2036.

(a) 15
(b) 23
(c) 31
(d) 35

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 23

Correct Answer: 23 crores — Option (b)
The elderly population (60 years and above) in India is projected to increase to 23 crore by 2036. About Population Projections: Source: Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections constituted by the National Commission on Population (NCP), Government of India; Key projection: The population of older ages (60 years and above) in India is projected to increase from about 10.4 crore (2011 Census) to approximately 23 crore by 2036; This represents a significant increase — more than doubling in 25 years; About India's Ageing Population: Demographic transition: India is going through demographic transition — declining fertility rates and increasing life expectancy; Life expectancy at birth in India: Has increased from 37 years (1947) to approximately 70 years (2023); Total Fertility Rate (TFR): Has declined from 6.0 (1950) to approximately 2.0 (2020-21); India is among the first developing nations to achieve below-replacement TFR in recent data; Elderly population data: 2011 Census: 10.38 crore elderly (8.6% of population); 2021 (projected): ~14 crore; 2036 (projected): ~23 crore; 2050 (projected): ~34 crore; Implications: Increasing demand for geriatric healthcare; Need for senior citizen welfare schemes — Atal Pension Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana, SAGE ( Seniorcare Ageing Growth Engine); Need for long-term care infrastructure; Government response: National Programme for Health Care of Elderly (NPHCE); Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana — assistive devices for elderly poor; Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS).
Option (a) 15 crores — Incorrect: The projected elderly population (60+) in India in 2036 is NOT 15 crore ; 15 crore would be an underestimate; as per the Technical Group on Population Projections, the elderly population is projected to reach approximately 23 crore by 2036; this represents a massive increase from the approximately 10 crore elderly in 2011.
Option (c) 31 crores — Incorrect: The projected elderly population (60+) in India in 2036 is NOT 31 crore ; 31 crore would be the projection for a later period (around 2050); as per the Technical Group on Population Projections, the figure for 2036 is approximately 23 crore ; 31 crore is too high for the 2036 projection.
Option (d) 35 crores — Incorrect: The projected elderly population (60+) in India in 2036 is NOT 35 crore ; this figure is far too high for the 2036 projection; as per the Technical Group on Population Projections, the elderly population is projected to reach approximately 23 crore by 2036; 35 crore would go beyond even the 2050 projections for elderly population.

SSC GD 2026 – 22 May 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q24. The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) is released by which of the following?

(a) NITI Aayog
(b) IDSA
(c) NHRC
(d) IIB

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) NITI Aayog

Correct Answer: NITI Aayog — Option (a)
The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (National MPI) in India is released by NITI Aayog. About National MPI: India's National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) is released by NITI Aayog; It measures poverty across multiple dimensions (not just income); Based on the global MPI methodology developed by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and UNDP; Dimensions measured by India's National MPI: 3 dimensions and 12 indicators: Health: Nutrition, Child and Adolescent Mortality, Antenatal Care; Education: Years of Schooling, School Attendance; Living Standards: Cooking Fuel, Sanitation, Drinking Water, Electricity, Housing, Assets, Bank Accounts; Recent findings: India has significantly reduced multidimensional poverty — from 29.17% (2013-14) to 11.28% (2022-23) as per NITI Aayog's National MPI reports; About NITI Aayog: Established: January 1, 2015 (replaced the Planning Commission); Full name: National Institution for Transforming India; It is the Government of India's premier policy think-tank; Chaired by the Prime Minister; Vice-Chairman and CEO lead day-to-day operations; Functions: Provides strategic policy vision, designs programs, monitors implementation, promotes cooperative federalism; Key reports: National MPI, SDG India Index, Health Index, State Energy Efficiency Index, Composite Water Management Index.
Option (b) IDSA — Incorrect: IDSA (now known as Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses — MP-IDSA) is a defence and security research institution — it does NOT publish the National Multidimensional Poverty Index; NITI Aayog is the correct publisher.
Option (c) NHRC — Incorrect: NHRC (National Human Rights Commission) is an independent statutory body that protects human rights in India — while poverty is a human rights concern, the NHRC does NOT release the National MPI; it is released by NITI Aayog.
Option (d) IIB — Incorrect: IIB (Insurance Information Bureau of India) is an industry-level data repository for the Indian insurance sector — it has nothing to do with poverty measurement or the National MPI; NITI Aayog releases the National MPI. The candidate selected this incorrect option.

SSC GD 2026 – 20 May 2026 Shift 1 · Types of unemployment

Q25. Where is disguised unemployment (hidden unemployment)
generally found?

(a) Agriculture sector
(b) IT sector
(c) Industrial sector
(d) Service sector

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Agriculture sector

Correct Answer: Agriculture sector — Option (a)
Disguised unemployment (also called hidden unemployment or underemployment) is most commonly found in the agriculture sector, especially in developing countries like India. It refers to a situation where more people are employed in a job than are actually needed — the marginal productivity of labour is zero or near-zero. For example, if a family farm requires only 3 workers but 6 family members work on it, the additional 3 workers are 'disguisedly unemployed' — removing them would not reduce total output. Characteristics of disguised unemployment: workers appear employed but are economically redundant; it is an invisible form of unemployment; it is characteristic of labour -surplus economies; it is prevalent in subsistence agriculture where family labour is used without proper wages.
Option (b) IT sector — Incorrect: The IT sector is a high-skill, organized sector where labour productivity is relatively easy to measure; disguised unemployment is not characteristic of the IT sector.
Option (c) Industrial sector — Incorrect: The industrial/manufacturing sector has clearer measures of productivity and output per worker; disguised unemployment is more characteristic of the agriculture sector.
Option (d) Service sector — Incorrect: While the informal service sector may have underemployment, disguised unemployment in its classic form is most associated with the agriculture sector in developing countries.

SSC GD 2026 – 18 May 2026 Shift 1 · Types of unemployment

Q26. Why are the 1991 economic reforms sometimes associated with 'jobless growth'?

(a) Increasing share of employment in agriculture
(b) High GDP growth without proportional employment expansion
(c) Rapid decline in educated unemployment
(d) Rural sectors absorbed more labour

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) High GDP growth without proportional employment expansion

Correct Answer: High GDP growth without proportional employment expansion — Option (b)
The 1991 economic reforms (New Economic Policy — LPG: Liberalisation , Privatisation , Globalisation ) are sometimes associated with 'jobless growth' because: India's GDP grew significantly (high economic growth rates of 6–8% annually in the 1990s and 2000s), but employment did not expand proportionately. The reforms favoured capital-intensive industries and the services sector (IT, finance) which are not major employers relative to their economic output. Manufacturing (which generates more jobs) grew but did not absorb the large labour force. The organised sector employment stagnated while the informal sector grew. This pattern of economic growth without commensurate job creation is termed 'jobless growth'.
Option (a) Increasing share of employment in agriculture — Incorrect: The 1991 reforms actually led to a decline in agriculture's share of employment over time as people moved to other sectors; an increase in agricultural employment would not cause 'jobless growth'.
Option (c) Rapid decline in educated unemployment — Incorrect: If educated unemployment had declined rapidly, it would suggest MORE jobs were created, contradicting the 'jobless growth' concept.
Option (d) Rural sectors absorbed more labour — Incorrect: If rural sectors had absorbed more labour , it would indicate employment generation, not 'jobless growth'. The concern was that growth occurred without sufficient job creation.

SSC GD 2026 – 18 May 2026 Shift 3 · Types of unemployment

Q27. What type of unemployment is caused by technological progress?

(a) Cyclical
(b) Disguised
(c) Frictional
(d) Structural

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Structural

Correct Answer: Structural — Option (d)
Structural unemployment is caused by technological progress and changes in the structure of the economy. When new technologies replace certain types of jobs or render specific skills obsolete, workers who cannot adapt quickly enough become structurally unemployed. Examples include: automation replacing factory assembly-line workers; computers replacing typesetters and bookkeepers; AI replacing routine data-entry jobs. Structural unemployment requires workers to acquire new skills or move to different industries — it cannot be resolved simply by economic growth (unlike cyclical unemployment). It is a long-term form of unemployment associated with industrialisation , automation, and technological change.
Option (a) Cyclical — Incorrect: Cyclical unemployment occurs due to downturns in the business cycle (recessions) when demand for goods and services falls; it is not caused by technological progress.
Option (b) Disguised — Incorrect: Disguised (or hidden) unemployment occurs when more people are employed in a job than actually needed (e.g., in agriculture), where removing some workers would not reduce output; it is unrelated to technology.
Option (c) Frictional — Incorrect: Frictional unemployment occurs when workers are between jobs or searching for better employment; it is short-term and unrelated to technological changes.

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 9 May 2026 Shift 1 · Types of unemployment

Q28. Which of the following is an example of structural unemployment?

(a) A textile worker loses the job due to industry automation
(b) A worker is laid off during a temporary dip in demand
(c) A person quits a job to pursue higher education
(d) A worker loses their job due to seasonal fluctuations in tourism

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) A textile worker loses the job due to industry automation

Structural Unemployment
Definition: Job loss due to fundamental changes in economy structure, technology, or industry shifts.
Analysis of Options:
Option 1: Automation replaces workers → permanent industry change →Structural
Option 2: Temporary demand dip →Cyclical unemployment
Option 3: Voluntary quit for education →Frictional unemployment
Option 4: Seasonal job loss →Seasonal unemployment
Answer: Option 1 → A textile worker loses the job due to industry automation

SSC GD 2026 – 8 May 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q29. In the Human Development Index (HDI), the Education Index is measured using:

(a) Mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling
(b) Enrolment ratio and dropout ratio
(c) Literacy rate and school enrolment ratio
(d) Adult literacy rate and teacher-student ratio

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling

Correct Answer: Mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling — Option (a)
The Human Development Index (HDI), published by UNDP, measures three dimensions: Health (Life expectancy at birth), Education (Education Index), and Standard of Living (GNI per capita). The Education Index is calculated using two indicators: (1) Mean Years of Schooling (MYS) — the average number of years of education received by people aged 25 and older; (2) Expected Years of Schooling (EYS) — the number of years of schooling a child of school-entry age can expect to receive if prevailing age-specific enrolment rates persist throughout the child's life. The Education Index = geometric mean of both normalized indicators.
Option (b) Enrolment ratio and dropout ratio — Incorrect: These are education statistics but are NOT the indicators used in the HDI Education Index; HDI uses Mean Years and Expected Years of Schooling.
Option (c) Literacy rate and school enrolment ratio — Incorrect: These were used in the OLD HDI formula (before 2010); the revised HDI (post-2010) uses Mean Years of Schooling and Expected Years of Schooling.
Option (d) Adult literacy rate and teacher-student ratio — Incorrect: Teacher-student ratio is not an HDI component; adult literacy rate was part of the old HDI formula, not the current one.

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 7 May 2026 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q30. Which of the following indicators is NOT a component of the Human Development Index (HDI)?

(a) Gross National Income per capita
(b) Life expectancy
(c) Education index
(d) Poverty line ratio

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Poverty line ratio

Human Development Index (HDI)
HDI measures average achievement in three basic dimensions:
1. Health:Life expectancy at birth
2. Education:Mean years of schooling + Expected years of schooling
3. Standard of Living:Gross National Income (GNI) per capita
Poverty line ratio is NOT a component of HDI.
It is measured separately by Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI).
Answer: Option 4 → Poverty line ratio

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2025-26 – 7 May 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q31. How can developing countries like India reduce inter-regional disparities in human development within the education and healthcare sectors in the 21ˢᵗ century?

(a) By centralising economic activities in urban areas
(b) By focusing all development efforts on capital cities
(c) By reducing investments in rural education and health
(d) By implementing region-specific policies and resource allocation

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) By implementing region-specific policies and resource allocation

Topic: Regional Disparities in Human Development
Inter-regional disparitiesrefer to unequal development across different regions within a country.
Key Strategy for Reduction:
Region-specific policies address unique local needs in education and healthcare.
Targeted resource allocation ensures equitable distribution to backward regions.
Why other options fail:
Options 1-3 would increase disparities by neglecting rural and backward areas.
Answer: Option 4 → By implementing region-specific policies and resource allocation

SSC GD 2026 – 6 May 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q32. Which of the following reports is related to Human Development?

(a) Global Risk Report
(b) Human Development Report
(c) World Economic Outlook
(d) Global Competitiveness Report

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Human Development Report

Correct Answer: Human Development Report — Option (b)
The Human Development Report (HDR) is published annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It was first published in 1990 with Mahbub ul Haq as its architect. The report introduces the Human Development Index (HDI), which measures countries' achievements in health (life expectancy), education (years of schooling), and standard of living (GNI per capita). The HDR provides a broader measure of development beyond just economic growth.
Option (a) Global Risk Report — Incorrect: The Global Risk Report is published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and assesses global risks across economic, environmental, geopolitical, societal, and technological categories.
Option (c) World Economic Outlook — Incorrect: The World Economic Outlook (WEO) is published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and focuses on global economic trends and forecasts.
Option (d) Global Competitiveness Report — Incorrect: The Global Competitiveness Report is also published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) and ranks countries based on their economic competitiveness factors.

SSC GD 2026 – 6 May 2026 Shift 3 · Population and demographic dividend

Q33. According to the 2021 data of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India's fertility rate in 2021 is stabilising at ___.

(a) 2.0
(b) 3.0
(c) 1.5
(d) 2.7

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2.0

Correct Answer: 2.0 — Option (a)
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) 2019–21 and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data, India's Total Fertility Rate (TFR) in 2021 stabilized at 2.0 — which is at (or just below) the replacement level fertility rate of 2.1. This marks a significant demographic transition for India. The TFR has declined from 5.2 in 1971 to 2.0 in 2021, reflecting improved healthcare, education (especially for women), urbanization, and family planning programs. India reached below-replacement fertility rate nationally for the first time.
Option (b) 3.0 — Incorrect: India's TFR of 3.0 was recorded in the early 2000s; by 2021, it had declined significantly to 2.0.
Option (c) 1.5 — Incorrect: A TFR of 1.5 would be below the replacement rate and is seen in states like Tamil Nadu and Kerala; the national average in 2021 is 2.0.
Option (d) 2.7 — Incorrect: 2.7 was approximately India's TFR around 2011–2013; by 2021, it had fallen to 2.0.

SSC GD 2026 – 29 April 2026 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q34. The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index of _____.

(a) Education, Income, Life Expectancy
(b) GDP, Gross National Income, Literacy
(c) Employment, Social Security, Gender Equality
(d) Income, Health, Environment

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Education, Income, Life Expectancy

Correct Answer: Education, Income, Life Expectancy — Option (a)
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistical index developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) that measures human development along three key dimensions: 1) Education: Measured by two indicators — Mean Years of Schooling (average years of education received by people aged 25 and above) and Expected Years of Schooling (total years of schooling expected for a child entering school age); 2) Income/Standard of Living: Measured by Gross National Income (GNI) per capita at Purchasing Power Parity (PPP); 3) Long and Healthy Life: Measured by Life Expectancy at birth. The HDI was introduced in 1990 by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq with the help of Indian Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen; Published annually in the UNDP Human Development Report; India's HDI rank in recent years has been in the 'Medium Human Development' category. The HDI ranges from 0 to 1, with higher values indicating greater human development.
Option (b) GDP, Gross National Income, Literacy — Incorrect: The HDI does not directly use GDP or standalone Literacy as its components; it uses GNI per capita (not GDP), and Education is measured through mean and expected years of schooling — not just literacy.
Option (c) Employment, Social Security, Gender Equality — Incorrect: These are components of other composite indices (like the Social Progress Index or Gender Development Index), not the HDI; the HDI specifically measures Education, Income (GNI per capita), and Life Expectancy.
Option (d) Income, Health, Environment — Incorrect: Environment is not a component of the HDI; the three components of HDI are Education, Income (GNI per capita), and Life Expectancy (representing the health dimension) — environment is not included.

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q35. When was the National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP) launched?

(a) 24th April 2019
(b) 24th April 2020
(c) 24th April 2022
(d) 24th April 2021

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 24th April 2019

National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP)
Also known asSTART (Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme)
Launched by:Ministry of Rural Development
Launch Date:24th April 2019
Objective: Support rural women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) for livelihood and entrepreneurship
Answer: Option 1 → 24th April 2019

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q36. In a country with high informal employment and low social protection coverage, which policy is likely to be the most effective in both poverty alleviation and employment formalization?

(a) Expand social insurance to informal sector
(b) Deregulate labor laws
(c) Targeted food subsidies
(d) Universal basic income

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Expand social insurance to informal sector

Context: High informal employment + Low social protection
Analysis of Options:
Option 1: Expanding social insurance to informal sector addresses both goals directly
• Provides safety net → reduces poverty
• Creates incentive for workers to register → promotes formalization
• Examples: India's PM-SYM, Brazil's Bolsa Família with registration
Option 2: Deregulation may increase informal jobs, not formalize them
Option 3: Food subsidies reduce poverty but don't incentivize formalization
Option 4: UBI costly, no direct link to employment formalization

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q37. In which year was the report of Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in India submitted by the Dr. C Rangarajan Committee?

(a) 2008
(b) 2010
(c) 2014
(d) 2017

Answer & solution

Dr. C. Rangarajan Committee on Poverty Estimation
The committee was constituted to review the methodology
for measurement of poverty in India.
Key Facts:
• Submitted report inJune 2014
• Recommended higher poverty line than Tendulkar Committee
• Suggested ₹47/day (urban) and ₹32/day (rural) in 2011-12 prices
Answer: Option 3 → 2014

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 27 March 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q38. Which index does NITI Aayog use to analyze poverty in India by considering multiple factors like education, health, and living standards?

(a) Income Poverty Index (IPI)
(b) Human Development Index (HDI)
(c) Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)
(d) Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)

Topic:Poverty Measurement in India
Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)is used by NITI Aayog.
MPI considers three dimensions:
1.Health- nutrition, child mortality
2.Education- years of schooling, school attendance
3.Living Standards- housing, sanitation, electricity, assets
MPI goes beyond income-based poverty measurement.
Answer: Option 3 → Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI)

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q39. Which of the following scholars introduced the concept of human development?

(a) Amartya Sen
(b) Mahbub-ul-Haq
(c) Alexander Von Humboldt
(d) Griffith Taylor

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Mahbub-ul-Haq

Topic:Human Development Concept
Mahbub-ul-Haq(Pakistani economist) introduced the concept of human development in 1990.
He created theHuman Development Index (HDI)for UNDP.
Amartya Sen contributed to the theoretical framework but Mahbub-ul-Haq pioneered the concept.
Answer: Option 2 → Mahbub-ul-Haq

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 March 2026 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q40. How many main approaches are there to human development?

(a) Five: income, welfare, capabilities, rights-based, and sustainability approaches
(b) Four: income, welfare, minimum needs, and capabilities approaches
(c) Three: income, welfare, and capability approaches
(d) Six: income, welfare, basic needs, capabilities, rights-based, participatory approaches

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Four: income, welfare, minimum needs, and capabilities approaches

Topic: Approaches to Human Development
The main approaches to human development are:
1. Income Approach:Development measured by per capita income/GDP
2. Welfare Approach:Focus on government welfare programs and social services
3. Minimum Needs Approach:Ensuring basic necessities like food, shelter, health, education
4. Capability Approach:Amartya Sen's concept - expanding people's choices and freedoms
These four form the core framework in human development studies.
Answer: Option 2 → Four: income, welfare, minimum needs, and capabilities approaches

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 24 March 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q41. Which of the following programs aims at self-employment for the rural poor?

(a) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(b) Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana
(c) Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana
(d) National Rural Health Mission

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana

Topic:Rural Development Schemes
Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana (DAY-NRLM)
Launched in 2011, restructured in 2015
Aims atself-employment and skill developmentfor rural poor
Focuses on organizing poor into Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Provides financial assistance and training for livelihood
Other schemes:
MGNREGA → Wage employment (100 days guaranteed work)
PMAY → Housing for all
NRHM → Rural healthcare services
Answer: Option 3 → Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 22 March 2026 Shift 1 · Types of unemployment

Q42. What term describes a situation in which a person is employed but not in the desired capacity, in terms of compensation, hours, or skill level?

(a) Involuntary employment
(b) Underemployment
(c) Low wage employment
(d) Part-time employment

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Underemployment

Topic: Employment Economics
Underemploymentrefers to a situation where a person is employed but not utilized to their full capacity.
Key characteristics:
• Working below skill level or qualification
• Insufficient working hours (wanting full-time but getting part-time)
• Inadequate compensation for skills possessed
Example: An engineer working as a delivery driver or a full-time worker getting only 2-3 days of work per week.
Other options are incorrect:
• Involuntary employment - not a standard economic term
• Low wage employment - refers only to compensation aspect
Answer: Option 2 → Underemployment

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 22 March 2026 Shift 2 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q43. What is the term used for rural self-help group (SHG) women earning ₹1 lakh or more annually?

(a) Sahyogi Didis
(b) Aatmanirbhar Didis
(c) Lakhpati Didis
(d) Crorepati Didis

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Lakhpati Didis

Topic: Rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Lakhpati Didisis a government initiative under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
Women from rural SHGs earning ₹1 lakh or more annually are recognized asLakhpati Didis.
This initiative aims to empower rural women through skill development and income generation activities.
Answer: Option 3 → Lakhpati Didis

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 22 March 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q44. What does the Food for Work Programme aim to provide to the rural poor of backward districts?

(a) Free electricity and water supply
(b) Free education and training abroad
(c) Access to private healthcare schemes
(d) Supplementary wage employment

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Supplementary wage employment

Food for Work Programme
Launched to provide employment opportunities in rural backward areas.
Key Features:
• Wage employment during lean agricultural seasons
• Payment partly in cash and partly in food grains
• Focus on creating rural infrastructure assets
• Targets rural poor in backward districts
The programme aims to providesupplementary wage employmentto rural poor, especially during periods of low agricultural activity.
Answer: Option 4 → Supplementary wage employment

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q45. The conceptual framework of Human Development was pioneered by:

(a) Dr. Abdus Salam
(b) Prof. Amartya Sen
(c) Ellen C. Semple
(d) Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq

Human Development Concept
TheHuman Development Index (HDI)and its conceptual framework was pioneered byDr. Mahbub-ul-Haq, a Pakistani economist.
He introduced this concept in 1990 while working with UNDP.
Prof. Amartya Sen contributed to the theoretical foundation, but Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq created the framework.
Answer: Option 4 → Dr. Mahbub-ul-Haq

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 March 2026 Shift 3 · Types of unemployment

Q46. Which method of measuring unemployment includes people who are in the reference year? Who were unemployed and which basically indicates chronic unemployment?

(a) Usual Subsidiary Status Employment
(b) Current Weekly Statistics employment
(c) Current Daily Statistics on Employment
(d) Usual Principal Status employment

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Usual Principal Status employment

Topic:Unemployment Measurement Methods in India
Usual Principal Status (UPS): Measures unemployment over reference year (365 days)
Captures long-term/chronic unemployment patterns
Person unemployed for major part of year is counted as unemployed
Other Methods:
Current Weekly Status (CWS): Last 7 days reference period
Current Daily Status (CDS): Each day of week separately
Usual Subsidiary Status (USS): Considers subsidiary activity
UPSspecifically identifies chronic/structural unemployment
Answer: Option 4 →Usual Principal Status employment

RRB NTPC GL CBT-1 2025-26 – 18 March 2026 Shift 2 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q47. India adopted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in which year?

(a) 1992
(b) 2015
(c) 2011
(d) 2012

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 2015

UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
SDGs were adopted by all UN member states in September 2015.
India, as a UN member, adopted the 17 SDGs in 2015.
These replaced the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) which ended in 2015.
Answer: Option 2 → 2015

RRB Technician Grade III 2025-26 – 10 March 2026 Shift 2 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q48. Which of the following committees, in its 2009 report, is known for introducing a widely used method to estimate poverty levels in India?

(a) B.N. Yugandhar Committee
(b) Suresh Tendulkar Committee
(c) Rangarajan Expert Group
(d) A.V. Subramanian Committee

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Suresh Tendulkar Committee

The Suresh Tendulkar Committee, in its 2009 report, introduced a new method to estimate poverty levels in India.
This method is widely used and focuses on consumption expenditure based poverty lines.
It improved upon earlier committees by better capturing poverty through comprehensive data and methodology.
Hence, Suresh Tendulkar Committee is known for this significant contribution in poverty estimation.
This is essential knowledge for competitive exams relating to Indian economics and poverty.

RRB Technician Grade III 2025-26 – 6 March 2026 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q49. Which of the following dimensions is NOT directly included in the Human Development Index (HDI)?

(a) A decent standard of living
(b) Human security
(c) A long and healthy life
(d) Being knowledgeable

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Human security

The Human Development Index (HDI) measures three key dimensions:
1. A long and healthy life (life expectancy at birth).
2. Being knowledgeable (education index − mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling).
3. A decent standard of living (GNI per capita).
Human security is not a direct dimension included in HDI.
Therefore, option 2 is correct.
Final answer: Option 2

RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 25 February 2026 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q50. The Five Ps of Sustainable Development are:

(a) People, Peace, Power, Planet, Partnership
(b) People, Peace, Prosperity, Planet, Partnership
(c) Poverty, Peace, Protection, Plant, Product
(d) Population, Peace, Production, Power, Partnership

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) People, Peace, Prosperity, Planet, Partnership

The Five Ps of Sustainable Development are: People, Peace, Prosperity, Planet, Partnership.
This is a commonly accepted framework in sustainability discussions and UN documents.
Option 2 correctly lists these five elements.
Other options contain incorrect or unrelated terms like Power, Poverty, Plant, etc.
Hence, the correct answer is Option 2.

RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 20 February 2026 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q51. Social indicators of development improved after economic growth accelerated. Which of the following indicators saw the most consistent improvement after 1991?

(a) Fiscal deficit
(b) Consumer Price Index
(c) Maternal Mortality Rate
(d) Gini coefficient

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Maternal Mortality Rate

Correct option is 3: Maternal Mortality Rate.
After 1991, India experienced economic growth which positively impacted social indicators.
Among the given options:
- Fiscal deficit is an economic measure, often fluctuating with policy changes.
- Consumer Price Index reflects inflation, which can vary independently of development.
- Maternal Mortality Rate consistently improved due to better healthcare and social policies following economic reforms.
- Gini coefficient measures income inequality, which did not show consistent improvement.
Thus, the Maternal Mortality Rate shows the most consistent improvement after 1991 reforms.
Final answer: Option 3

RRB JE CBT-1 2025-26 – 19 February 2026 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q52. Match the following List-I (World Events) with List-II (Outcomes) and choose your answer from the code given below. World Events (List -I) Outcome (List-II)1. United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, 1972 i) Millennium Development Goals (MDG)2. Brundtland Report, 1987 ii) Adoption of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)3. UN Millennium Summit, 2000 iii) Environmental Movement4. UN Summit, 2015 iv) The word ‘Sustainable Development’ was introduced

(a) 1(iii), 2(iv), 3(i), 4(ii)
(b) 1(i), 2(iv), 3(iii), 4(ii)
(c) 1(i), 2(ii), 3(iii), 4(iv)
(d) 1(i), 2(ii), 3(iv), 4(iii)

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 1(iii), 2(iv), 3(i), 4(ii)

Match the events with their correct outcomes:
1. United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, 1972 − resulted in Environmental Movement (iii).
2. Brundtland Report, 1987 − introduced the term 'Sustainable Development' (iv).
3. UN Millennium Summit, 2000 − led to Millennium Development Goals (MDG) (i).
4. UN Summit, 2015 − adopted Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) (ii).
Hence, correct matching is 1(iii), 2(iv), 3(i), 4(ii).
Final answer: Option 1

SSC MTS 2025 – 13 February 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q53. In the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, how many criteria were there for automatic inclusion of rural households?

(a) 5
(b) 7
(c) 11
(d) 12

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 5

Correct Answer: Option 1 – 5
In the SECC 2011, certain rural households were automatically included in the BPL (Below Poverty Line) category based on 5 criteria for automatic inclusion:
1. Households without shelter (homeless).
2. Destitute households, living on alms.
3. Manual scavenger families.
4. Primitive tribal groups.
5. Legally released bonded labourers .
These households were considered automatically poor regardless of other deprivation criteria.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 (7): The SECC used 7 deprivation criteria (for identifying deprived households), but the automatic inclusion criteria numbered 5.
Options 3 (11) and 4 (12): These numbers are incorrect for SECC 2011 automatic inclusion criteria.

SSC MTS 2025 – 12 February 2026 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q54. In the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, how many deprivation criteria was there?

(a) 5
(b) 7
(c) 11
(d) 12

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) 7

Correct Answer: Option 2 – 7
The Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 used 7 deprivation criteria to identify poor rural households. A household was considered deprived if it met one or more of these criteria. These included: households with only one room and a kutcha (temporary) roof and walls, households without any adult member between 16–59 years, female-headed households with no adult male member, households with a disabled member, SC/ST households, landless households reliant on manual labour, and households with no literate adult above 25 years.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 1 (5): The actual number is 7, not 5.
Option 3 (11): Incorrect; there were 7 deprivation criteria.
Option 4 (12): Incorrect; 12 is not the correct number.

SSC MTS 2025 – 9 February 2026 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q55. Training of Rural Youth for Self-Employment (TRYSEM) was initiated in which year?

(a) 1965
(b) 1971
(c) 1979
(d) 1983

Answer & solution

Correct Answer: 3 (1979)
TRYSEM (Training of Rural Youth for Self-Employment) was launched in August 1979 as a sub-scheme under the Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP). Its aim was to provide technical and entrepreneurial skills to rural youth between 18-35 years of age from families below the poverty line, enabling them to become self-employed.
Option 1 (1965) is incorrect.
Option 2 (1971) is incorrect.
Option 4 (1983) is incorrect.

Delhi Police Head Constable (Ministerial) 2025-26 – 12 January 2026 Shift 2 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q56. Which of the following statements about MGNREGA is incorrect?

(a) MGNREGA guarantees at least 100 days of wage employment in a financial year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work.
(b) The Act mandates the payment of unemployment allowance to applicants if the government fails to provide employment within 15 days of application.
(c) MGNREGA allows for works related to agriculture, forestry, water conservation, and rural infrastructure development.
(d) The funding for MGNREGA is shared equally between the Central and State Governments, with States responsible for wage payments.

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) The funding for MGNREGA is shared equally between the Central and State Governments, with States responsible for wage payments.

Option 4 is the incorrect statement. MGNREGA is primarily a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with the following funding pattern: the Central Government bears 100% of unskilled wage costs, 75% of material and skilled wages, and administrative costs; the State Government bears only 25% of material/skilled wage costs. The States are NOT responsible for wage payments, and the funding is not shared equally.
• Option 1 is correct: MGNREGA does guarantee at least 100 days of wage employment per rural household per financial year.
• Option 2 is correct: Under Section 7 of the Act, if employment is not provided within 15 days of application, the applicant is entitled to an unemployment allowance.
• Option 3 is correct: Permissible works under MGNREGA include water conservation, land development, rural connectivity, agriculture and allied activities, and forestry.

Delhi Police Head Constable (Ministerial) 2025-26 – 12 January 2026 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q57. Which report regularly publishes the Human Development Index (HDI) including India's ranking?

(a) WHO Global Health Report
(b) UNDP Human Development Report
(c) UNESCO Global Wellbeing Index
(d) World Bank Ease of Living Report

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) UNDP Human Development Report

UNDP Human Development Report is correct. The Human Development Index (HDI) is published annually by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its Human Development Report (HDR). The HDI measures a country's development based on three dimensions: health (life expectancy at birth), education (mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling), and standard of living (Gross National Income per capita).
• WHO Global Health Report: Published by the World Health Organization, it focuses on global health statistics and disease data — it does not publish the HDI.
• UNESCO Global Wellbeing Index: UNESCO does not publish a 'Global Wellbeing Index'; UNESCO's reports focus on education, culture, and science.
• World Bank Ease of Living Report: The World Bank publishes reports on poverty and development but not the HDI; the Ease of Doing Business Index (discontinued in 2021) was a World Bank product.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 4 January 2026 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q58. A low Human Development Index (HDI) primarily indicates:

(a) High quality of life
(b) Low life expectancy
(c) High literacy rate
(d) High per capita income

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Low life expectancy

HDI measures human development across life expectancy, education, and per capita income. A low HDI indicates low life expectancy, poor education levels, and low income.
(a) Incorrect: High quality of life corresponds to a high HDI, not a low one.
(c) Incorrect: High literacy rate would indicate a higher HDI, not a lower one.
(d) Incorrect: High per capita income is associated with a higher HDI.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 4 January 2026 Shift 2 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q59. Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), what type of work is guaranteed to registered rural households?

(a) Skilled technical work
(b) Unskilled manual work
(c) Semi-skilled agricultural work
(d) Supervisory management work

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Unskilled manual work

MGNREGA guarantees 100 days of unskilled manual work per year to adult members of rural households who demand employment. This ensures a basic livelihood for rural workers.
(a) Incorrect: MGNREGA specifically provides unskilled work, not skilled technical employment.
(c) Incorrect: The guarantee is for unskilled manual work; semi-skilled work is a broader category.
(d) Incorrect: Supervisory or management roles are not part of the employment guaranteed under MGNREGA.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 3 January 2026 Shift 2 · Inequality measures (Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve)

Q60. What economic indicator does the 'Gini Coefficient' primarily measure?

(a) Inflation
(b) Economic growth (GDP)
(c) Income Inequality
(d) Unemployment rate

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Income Inequality

The Gini Coefficient (or Gini Index) is a statistical measure that quantifies income inequality within a nation. A value of 0 represents perfect equality (everyone has equal income) and 1 represents maximum inequality (one person has all the income). It is named after Italian statistician Corrado Gini.
(a) Incorrect: Inflation (rising price levels) is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) or Wholesale Price Index (WPI), not the Gini Coefficient.
(b) Incorrect: Economic growth (GDP) is measured by Gross Domestic Product growth rate, not the Gini Coefficient.
(c) Incorrect: Unemployment rate is measured by labour surveys and unemployment statistics, not the Gini Coefficient.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 30 December 2025 Shift 2 · Population and demographic dividend

Q61. The 'Family Planning Programme' to control population growth was introduced by the Government of India in which year?

(a) 1947
(b) 1950
(c) 1952
(d) 1961

Answer & solution

India launched the National Family Planning Programme in 1952, becoming the first country in the world to have a government-sponsored family planning program. It aimed to control population growth through education and contraception.
(a) Incorrect: 1947 was the year of India's independence; the Family Planning Programme was not launched then.
(b) Incorrect: 1950 was when the Indian Constitution came into effect, not when the Family Planning Programme began.
(d) Incorrect: 1961 was the year of the third census of independent India, not the launch of the Family Planning Programme.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 29 December 2025 Shift 2 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q62. What is the 'poverty line' primarily used to measure?

(a) The average income of a country
(b) The number of people who are wealthy
(c) The minimum income level considered necessary for a basic standard of living
(d) The national debt of a country

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) The minimum income level considered necessary for a basic standard of living

The poverty line is a threshold below which individuals or households are considered poor. It represents the minimum income level or expenditure needed to meet basic needs like food, clothing, and shelter. In India, it is determined by considering a minimum calorie intake and basic non-food expenditures.
(a) Incorrect: Average income is measured by per capita income, not the poverty line.
(b) Incorrect: Wealthy people are measured by wealth indices, not the poverty line.
(d) Incorrect: National debt is a separate macroeconomic concept unrelated to the poverty line.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 29 December 2025 Shift 2 · Population and demographic dividend

Q63. The 'National Population Policy 2000' (NPP 2000) aimed to achieve a stable population by which target year?

(a) 2020
(b) 2030
(c) 2045
(d) 2050

Answer & solution

The National Population Policy 2000 set a long-term target of achieving a stable population at a level consistent with sustainable economic growth, social development, and environmental protection by 2045. The NPP 2000 also set immediate goals including universal access to contraception, reducing infant mortality, and achieving 80% institutional deliveries.
(a) Incorrect: 2020 was only the medium-term goal for achieving replacement-level fertility (TFR of 2.1).
(b) Incorrect: 2030 is not the stable population target year in NPP 2000.
(d) Incorrect: 2050 is beyond the NPP 2000's stated target year of 2045.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 24 December 2025 Shift 2 · Population and demographic dividend

Q64. Read the following statements and choose the correct option.
Statement 1: The Dependency Ratio is calculated by comparing the population aged 15-60 to the rest of the population.
Statement 2: The Base Population is defined as the total population of an area at the beginning of a specific time period.

(a) Statement 1 is correct, but Statement 2 is incorrect.
(b) Statement 2 is correct, but Statement 1 is incorrect.
(c) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are correct.
(d) Both Statement 1 and Statement 2 are incorrect.

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Statement 2 is correct, but Statement 1 is incorrect.

The correct answer is Statement 2 is correct, but Statement 1 is incorrect (Option 2).
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Dependency Ratio is typically calculated using age groups 0-14 (children) and 65+ (elderly) as dependents, compared to the working-age population (15-64). The statement incorrectly uses 15-60 as the reference group, and also inverts the comparison direction.
Statement 2 is correct: The Base Population is indeed defined as the total population of a given area at the beginning of a specific time period (usually January 1 or the start of the reference year), used as the denominator for calculating demographic rates.
Option 3 - Both correct: This is wrong because Statement 1 has an incorrect age bracket definition.
Option 4 - Both incorrect: This is wrong because Statement 2 is accurate.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 23 December 2025 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q65. The Human Development Index (HDI) is published by which of the following organizations?

(a) World Bank
(b) International Monetary Fund (IMF)
(c) World Economic Forum (WEF)
(d) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The correct answer is United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (Option 4).
The Human Development Index (HDI) is published annually by the UNDP in its Human Development Report. It measures countries based on life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators.
Option 1 - World Bank: Publishes the World Development Report and Ease of Doing Business Index, not HDI.
Option 2 - IMF: Publishes reports on global economic outlook and financial stability, not HDI.
Option 3 - WEF: Publishes the Global Competitiveness Report and Global Gender Gap Report, not HDI.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 23 December 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q66. Who publishes the Human Development Index (HDI)?

(a) International Monetary Fund (IMF)
(b) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
(c) World Bank
(d) World Health Organization (WHO)

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

The correct answer is United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (Option 2).
The Human Development Index (HDI) is published annually by the UNDP in its Human Development Report (HDR). The HDI measures countries based on three dimensions: life expectancy (health), education (mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling), and standard of living (GNI per capita).
Option 1 - IMF: Publishes the World Economic Outlook and Global Financial Stability Report; does not publish HDI.
Option 3 - World Bank: Publishes the World Development Report and Ease of Doing Business Index; does not publish HDI.
Option 4 - WHO: Publishes reports on global health; does not publish HDI.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 23 December 2025 Shift 3 · Population and demographic dividend

Q67. Which term best describes the demographic and economic phenomenon resulting from the outflow of a source region's highly skilled labor?

(a) Skewed sex ratio
(b) Anti-social activities
(c) Brain drain concept
(d) Fertility Rate

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Brain drain concept

The correct answer is Brain drain concept (Option 3).
The Brain Drain concept refers to the emigration of highly educated, skilled, or talented individuals (doctors, engineers, scientists) from a region or country to another region or country that offers better opportunities. This results in a loss of intellectual and human capital for the source region.
Option 1 - Skewed sex ratio: Skewed sex ratio refers to a disproportionate number of males versus females in a population, which is a demographic imbalance, not related to skilled labour outflow.
Option 2 - Anti-social activities: Anti-social activities refers to behaviours harmful to society and has no connection to skilled migration.
Option 4 - Fertility Rate: Fertility rate measures the average number of children born per woman and is a demographic indicator unrelated to skilled worker migration.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 22 December 2025 Shift 2 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q68. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) aims to mobilize all rural poor households into Self Help Groups (SHG). What is the prescribed minimum number of women required to form a new SHG under the scheme guidelines?

(a) 4
(b) 8
(c) 10
(d) 2

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 10

Under the DAY-NRLM (Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission) guidelines, a Self Help Group (SHG) must have a minimum of 10 women members (and a maximum of 15) to be formed under the scheme. These women pool small savings, access credit, and undertake livelihood activities collectively. Option 3 is correct.
Option 1 is wrong: A minimum of 4 women is insufficient to form a valid SHG under DAY-NRLM guidelines; the minimum required is 10 women members to ensure effective group functioning and peer support.
Option 2 is wrong: A minimum of 8 women does not meet the DAY-NRLM requirement of at least 10 women members per SHG; groups below 10 members would not be eligible for the scheme's benefits.
Option 4 is wrong: A minimum of 2 women is far below the required threshold; SHGs under DAY-NRLM require at least 10 women (and up to 15) to be recognized as a valid group under the scheme.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 18 December 2025 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q69. Which of the following combinations of indicators is used by the UNDP to compare countries in its Human Development Report?

(a) Total income, military strength, literacy rate
(b) GDP, per capita income, export performance
(c) Life expectancy, education level, per capita income
(d) Employment rate, industrial growth, natural resources

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Life expectancy, education level, per capita income

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) uses the Human Development Index (HDI) to compare countries. The HDI is composed of three key indicators: (1) Life expectancy at birth (health dimension), (2) Education level (mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling), and (3) Per capita income (GNI per capita) for standard of living.
Option (a) is incorrect: Military strength is not a component of HDI.
Option (b) is incorrect: Export performance is not a component of HDI.
Option (d) is incorrect: Employment rate, industrial growth, and natural resources are not HDI components.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 18 December 2025 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q70. What does a low Human Development Index (HDI) score indicate?

(a) High quality of life
(b) Low life expectancy
(c) High literacy rate
(d) High income

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Low life expectancy

A low HDI score indicates poor human development. The three dimensions of HDI are: health (life expectancy), education (literacy and schooling), and income (per capita income). A low HDI score means the country has low life expectancy, low education levels, and low income.
Option (a) is incorrect: High quality of life would result in a HIGH HDI score, not a low one.
Option (c) is incorrect: A high literacy rate would increase HDI, not decrease it.
Option (d) is incorrect: High income is associated with a high HDI score, not a low one.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 18 December 2025 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q71. Which government initiative focuses on promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship among women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs)?

(a) Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
(b) National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM)
(c) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana
(d) Digital India

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM)

The National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), also known as Aajeevika, was launched in 2011 by the Ministry of Rural Development. It specifically focuses on organizing rural poor women into Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and federations, providing them financial services, livelihood support, and entrepreneurship training to promote self-reliance.
Option (a) is incorrect: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao focuses on the welfare and education of the girl child, not specifically SHG-based entrepreneurship.
Option (c) is incorrect: PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana focuses on skill development and training for youth; it does not specifically work through SHGs.
Option (d) is incorrect: Digital India aims at improving digital infrastructure and services; it is unrelated to SHGs.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 18 December 2025 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q72. Which program was launched in 1983 to provide wage employment to rural landless labourers?

(a) Food for Work Program
(b) Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Program (RLEGP)
(c) Integrated Rural Development Program (IRDP)
(d) National Rural Employment Program (NREP)

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Program (RLEGP)

The Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP) was launched on 15 August 1983, during the Sixth Five-Year Plan, to provide guaranteed wage employment (up to 100 days per year) to rural landless labourers. It was specifically targeted at the poorest of the rural poor — those who had no agricultural land.
Option (a) is incorrect: The Food for Work Programme was launched in 1977-78 to provide food grains as wages; it was a different scheme launched earlier.
Option (c) is incorrect: The Integrated Rural Development Programme (IRDP) focused on self-employment through subsidy-linked bank credit, not wage employment.
Option (d) is incorrect: The National Rural Employment Programme (NREP) was launched in 1980 to generate employment; it predates RLEGP and had a different focus.

Delhi Police Constable (Exe) 2025-26 – 18 December 2025 Shift 1 · Inequality measures (Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve)

Q73. What is measured by the Lorenz Curve?

(a) Price elasticity
(b) Economic growth
(c) Income inequality
(d) Unemployment

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Income inequality

The Lorenz Curve is a graphical representation of income or wealth distribution within an economy. It shows the proportion of total income earned by the bottom x% of the population. The further the Lorenz Curve deviates from the 45-degree line of perfect equality, the greater the income inequality. The Gini Coefficient is derived from the Lorenz Curve.
Option (a) is incorrect: Price elasticity is measured using the price elasticity of demand/supply formula, not the Lorenz Curve.
Option (b) is incorrect: Economic growth is measured by GDP growth rate, industrial output, and other macroeconomic indicators.
Option (d) is incorrect: Unemployment is measured by the unemployment rate calculated through labour force surveys.

SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 12 December 2025 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q74. What does "expected years of schooling" measure?

(a) The total number of years of schooling in a country.
(b) The average number of years of schooling received by people ages 25 and older.
(c) The number of years a child of school-entering age is expected to spend in school.
(d) The projected past years of schooling.

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) The number of years a child of school-entering age is expected to spend in school.

Correct Answer: The number of years a child of school-entering age is expected to spend in school (Option 3)
'Expected Years of Schooling' is one of the three key components of the Human Development Index (HDI), published by UNDP. It measures the number of years of schooling that a child of school-entering age (typically 5-6 years) can expect to receive throughout their lifetime, based on current age-specific enrollment rates.
Option 1 (total years in a country) is a national aggregate — not what this indicator measures.
Option 2 (average years for people 25+) describes 'Mean Years of Schooling', the other education component of the HDI.
Option 4 (projected past years) is not a recognized HDI measure.

SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 12 December 2025 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q75. What does the MGNREGA stand for?

(a) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Generation Act
(b) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(c) Mahatma Gandhi National Regulated Employment Generation Act
(d) Mahatma Gandhi National Regulated Employment Guarantee Act

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act

Correct Answer: Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (Option 2)
MGNREGA stands for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. It was enacted in 2005 (came into force in 2006) and provides a legal guarantee of at least 100 days of unskilled wage employment per year to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The scheme was renamed from NREGA to MGNREGA in 2009.
The key word is 'Guarantee' — the Act legally guarantees employment, not merely 'generates' it.
'Regulated' is not part of the actual name.

SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 12 December 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q76. A substantial limitation of the Human Development Index (HDI) is its inability to capture:

(a) Economic growth
(b) Life expectancy
(c) Educational attainment
(d) Social inequality and income distribution

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) Social inequality and income distribution

Correct: Social inequality and income distribution.
The HDI measures three dimensions: health (life expectancy), education (educational attainment), and standard of living (GNI per capita). It does NOT capture within-country inequality or income distribution. Options 1, 2, and 3 are all components that HDI directly measures or relates to, so they are incorrect.

SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 11 December 2025 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q77. The Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP) was initiated in the ________ Five-Year Plan.

(a) Fourth
(b) Fifth
(c) Sixth
(d) Seventh

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Sixth

Correct Answer: Sixth (Option 3)
The Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP) was launched in 1983 during the Sixth Five-Year Plan (1980–1985). It aimed to guarantee at least 100 days of employment per year to at least one member of every rural landless household.
The Fourth Plan (1969–74) and Fifth Plan (1974–79) predated RLEGP.
The Seventh Plan (1985–90) came after RLEGP was already initiated.

SSC CPO Paper-1 2025 – 11 December 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q78. The "capability approach" as applied to the Human Development Index (HDI) has been criticized for:

(a) Being too focused on economic factors.
(b) Being difficult to operationalize and measure.
(c) Ignoring life expectancy.
(d) Overemphasizing educational data.

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Being difficult to operationalize and measure.

Correct Answer: Baeing difficult to operationalize and measure (Option 2)
The 'capability approach', developed by Amartya Sen and applied to the HDI, focuses on expanding people's capabilities and freedoms. While theoretically rich, it has been criticized for being difficult to operationalize and measure in practice. Capabilities like freedom, dignity, and quality of life are hard to quantify, making it challenging to construct a reliable index.
The capability approach is actually LESS focused on economic factors (like GDP) and more on human well-being — so Option 1 is incorrect.
It does NOT ignore life expectancy — the HDI includes life expectancy as a key component.
The capability approach does not overemphasize educational data — it treats education as just one of several dimensions.

SSC Stenographer 2025 – 7 December 2025 Shift 3 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q79. What is used to measure the health dimension in HDI?

(a) Access to clean water
(b) Life expectancy at birth
(c) Infant mortality rate
(d) Nutritional status

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Life expectancy at birth

The correct answer is option 2. In the Human Development Index (HDI) , the health dimension is measured by life expectancy at birth . This indicator reflects the overall health conditions, quality of medical facilities, nutrition, sanitation, and living standards of a population. The higher the life expectancy, the better the health dimension score in HDI. The other two components of HDI are education (measured by mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling) and standard of living (measured by Gross National Income per capita) .

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 28 November 2025 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q80. The Expert Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. C. Rangarajan to Review the Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in the country was constituted by the Planning Commission in _____.

(a) 2012
(b) 2010
(c) 2008
(d) 2006

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2012

The Expert Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. C. Rangarajan to review the methodology for measurement of poverty was constituted by the Planning Commission in 2012. This committee submitted its report in 2014 and proposed a new poverty line based on consumption expenditure, which was higher than the earlier Tendulkar Committee estimates.
2010, 2008, and 2006 are incorrect years for this committee's constitution.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 28 November 2025 Shift 1 · Types of unemployment

Q81. The term 'Current Weekly Status' in India is related to which of the following?

(a) Employment and unemployment status
(b) Weekly rainfall measurement
(c) National nutrition survey
(d) Parliamentary attendance reports

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Employment and unemployment status

Current Weekly Status (CWS) is a measure used in India's Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) to assess employment and unemployment. Under CWS, a person's activity status is determined based on a reference period of the preceding seven days (one week). It captures more fluctuating employment patterns compared to the Usual Status measure.
Weekly rainfall measurement, national nutrition survey, and parliamentary attendance are not related to CWS. Hence, Employment and unemployment status is correct.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 25 November 2025 Shift 1 · Population and demographic dividend

Q82. According to the Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections (July 2020), India's elderly population is expected to reach _____ million by 2031.

(a) 103.4
(b) 91.4
(c) 113.4
(d) 193.4

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 193.4

According to the Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections (July 2020), India's elderly population (aged 60 and above) is expected to reach 193.4 million by 2031. This reflects India's rapidly ageing demographic due to increased life expectancy and declining fertility rates.
Options 103.4, 91.4, and 113.4 million are incorrect projections.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 25 November 2025 Shift 2 · Human capital formation

Q83. Which of the following is a reason of Brain drain in India?
I. Low job opportunities in India
II. Low quality of higher education in India.

(a) Only I
(b) Only II
(c) Both I and II
(d) Neither I nor II

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Both statements are correct reasons for brain drain in India:
I. Low job opportunities: Lack of adequate, well-paying jobs in India pushes skilled professionals to seek employment abroad.
II. Low quality of higher education: Inadequate research infrastructure and limited quality institutions in India motivate students and researchers to pursue advanced education and careers abroad.
Hence, Both I and II are valid reasons for brain drain.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 24 November 2025 Shift 2 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q84. Which index is the world's first Government-led sub-national measure of SDG progress?

(a) SDG India Index
(b) China Leading SDG Index
(c) American Sustainable Index
(d) SDG EU Index

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) SDG India Index

Correct Answer: SDG India Index (Option 1)
The SDG India Index, developed by NITI Aayog in partnership with the United Nations India, is the world's first Government-led sub-national measure of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) progress. It ranks and tracks the performance of Indian states and union territories on SDG indicators, making India a global pioneer in sub-national SDG measurement.
Why others are wrong:
Option 2 - China Leading SDG Index: This is not a government-led sub-national SDG index.
Option 3 - American Sustainable Index: No such government-led index exists in this context.
Option 4 - SDG EU Index: There is no such official government-led EU sub-national SDG index.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 22 November 2025 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q85. As per India's Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, the total households in the country (Rural plus Urban) was _____ crores.

(a) 24.49
(b) 27.97
(c) 11.97
(d) 31.28

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 24.49

Correct Answer: 24.49 crores (Option 1)
According to the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, the total number of households in India (Rural plus Urban combined) was approximately 24.49 crore (244.9 million). The SECC 2011 was the first census after independence to collect data on the socio-economic conditions and caste of households in both rural and urban India. It was a comprehensive survey covering all districts of India.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 - 27.97 crores: This figure does not match the SECC 2011 data.
Option 3 - 11.97 crores: This is too low for India's total households.
Option 4 - 31.28 crores: This exceeds the actual SECC 2011 figure.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 22 November 2025 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q86. How many total districts were covered in the India's Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 survey?

(a) 640
(b) 680
(c) 750
(d) 730

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 640

Correct Answer: 640 districts (Option 1)
The Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 covered all 640 districts of India at the time of the survey. This was a comprehensive nationwide survey that collected data on every household in rural and urban areas, covering their socio-economic conditions including income, housing, land ownership, education, occupation, and caste. It remains India's most extensive household-level database.
Why other options are wrong:
Option 2 - 680: The SECC 2011 covered 640 districts, not 680.
Option 3 - 750: India currently has more than 750 districts, but at the time of SECC 2011, there were 640 districts covered.
Option 4 - 730: This does not match the recorded number of districts covered in SECC 2011.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 21 November 2025 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q87. In India, the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 was conducted by which of the following?
I. Ministry of Rural Development
II. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

(a) 1. Only I
(b) 2. Only II
(c) 3. Both I and II
(d) 4. Neither I nor II

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) 3. Both I and II

The Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 was conducted jointly by the Ministry of Rural Development (for rural areas) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (now Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs) for urban areas, along with the Registrar General of India. Therefore, both statements I and II are correct. Options 1 (Only I), 2 (Only II), and 4 (Neither) are incomplete.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 19 November 2025 Shift 3 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q88. India's Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 has a meaningful use in which
of the following initiative?
I. MGNREGA
II. National Food Security Act

(a) Only I
(b) Only II
(c) Both I and II
(d) Neither I nor II

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Both I and II

Correct Answer: Both I and II
The Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data is used in both:
Statement I - MGNREGA: SECC data is used to identify beneficiaries for MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act) by identifying rural poor households.
Statement II - National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013: SECC data is used to identify beneficiaries for the NFSA to determine who is entitled to subsidised food grains.
Both schemes use SECC 2011 data to target the most vulnerable and deprived households.
Why 'Only I', 'Only II', and 'Neither' are wrong: SECC data is meaningfully used in both initiatives.

SSC CHSL Tier-1 2025 – 14 November 2025 Shift 2 · Population and demographic dividend

Q89. National Population Policy 2000 aim to stabilize India's population growth by ______.

(a) 2045
(b) 2050
(c) 2055
(d) 2060

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) 2045

The National Population Policy (NPP) 2000 aimed to stabilize India's population by 2045. It set targets for achieving Net Replacement Rate (NRR = 1) by 2010 and stabilizing the population by 2045 at a level consistent with sustainable economic growth and social development. Why others are wrong: - 2050: Not the target year mentioned in NPP 2000. - 2055: Not mentioned in the policy. - 2060: Not the population stabilisation target year in NPP 2000.

SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 23 September 2025 Shift 3 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q90. The UN Sustainable Development Report 2024 primarily tracks progress towards which global goals?

(a) Millennium Development Goals
(b) Sustainable Development Goals
(c) Environmental Protection Goals
(d) Human Rights Goals

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Sustainable Development Goals

The UN Sustainable Development Report is published annually by the SDSN.
It tracks countries' progress towards the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015.

SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 20 September 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q91. Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct option:
Assertion(A): The Human Development Index can increase even if income drops.
Reason(R): Improvements in life expectancy and education can offset income decline.

(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

HDI is a composite of life expectancy, education and income (GNI per capita). Even if income decreases, gains in life expectancy and education can lift the overall HDI score.
Thus A is true, R is true, and R correctly explains A.

SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 17 September 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q92. Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct options:
Assertion (A):Human Development Index (HDI) in India improved significantly post-2010.
Reason (R):The methodology was revised globally to include inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (HDI).

(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

A is true — India's HDI value has improved significantly after 2010.
R is also true — the global HDI methodology was revised to include an inequality-adjusted HDI.
However, this methodology change does not directly explain India's actual improvement, which came from real gains in health, education and income.
Hence both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

SSC CGL Tier-1 2025 – 12 September 2025 Shift 1 · Population and demographic dividend

Q93. Which of the following objectives are part of the National Population Policy (NPP) 2000?
1. Providing free and compulsory education up to 14 years of age
2. Increasing fertility rate to ensure demographic dividend
3. Reducing infant mortality rate below 30 per 1000 live births
4. Promoting delayed marriage for girls

(a) Only 1 and 2 are correct
(b) Only 1 and 3 are correct
(c) Only 1, 3 and 4 are correct
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 all are correct

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Only 1, 3 and 4 are correct

NPP 2000 objectives include free education up to 14 years (1), reducing IMR below 30 per 1000 (3), and delayed marriage for girls (4).
It aims to REDUCE fertility, not increase it, so (2) is incorrect.
Hence, the answer is Only 1, 3 and 4.

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 September 2025 Shift 1 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q94. Which index combines life expectancy, education and per capita income to measure a country’s human development?

(a) GDP per capita
(b) Gini Index
(c) Human Development Index (HDI)
(d) Consumer Price Index

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) Human Development Index (HDI)

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 September 2025 Shift 1 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q95. Which of the following statements about the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM) is correct?

(a) It guarantees minimum support prices for rural produce.
(b) It provides direct employment in rural public sector units.
(c) It aims to organise rural poor into Self-Help Groups (SHGs).
(d) It offers 100 days of guaranteed employment to rural poor.

Answer & solution

Answer: (c) It aims to organise rural poor into Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 9 September 2025 Shift 2 · Human Development Index and UNDP

Q96. Human development emphasises enlarging people’s choices by improving health, education, and income. Which global organisation publishes the Human Development Index (HDI)?

(a) World Economic Forum
(b) United Nations Development Programme
(c) World Bank
(d) International Monetary Fund

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) United Nations Development Programme

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 4 September 2025 Shift 1 · Sustainable Development Goals

Q97. Which one of the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aims to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all?

(a) Goal 10
(b) Goal 7
(c) Goal 12
(d) Goal 5

Answer & solution

Answer: (b) Goal 7

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 3 September 2025 Shift 3 · Inequality measures (Gini coefficient, Lorenz curve)

Q98. Gender disparities significantly affect human development outcomes. Which of the following indicators is NOT part of the Gender Inequality Index (GII)?

(a) Food consumption
(b) Political representation
(c) Maternal mortality
(d) Labour force participation

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Food consumption

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 2 September 2025 Shift 2 · Poverty alleviation and employment programmes (MGNREGA, etc.)

Q99. In which of the following years was the Aajeevika - Deendayal Antyodaya Yojna-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) launched by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India?

(a) 2014
(b) 2007
(c) 2016
(d) 2011

Answer & solution

Answer: (d) 2011

RRB NTPC UG CBT-1 2024-25 – 2 September 2025 Shift 2 · Poverty - measurement and committees

Q100. The Tendulkar Committee revised India's methodology for measuring poverty. As per the Tendulkar Committee, which criterion is considered to measure poverty?

(a) Consumption expenditure
(b) Income
(c) Calorie intake
(d) Employment status

Answer & solution

Answer: (a) Consumption expenditure

1 2

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Q1. The high percentage of cultivators in rural India signifies which structural problem?

Q2. Which of the following best captures the structural reasons behind the phenomenon of 'jobless growth' in India, particularly in the post-1991 reform period?

Q3. Which of the following is NOT a dimension of HDI?

Q4. Which of the following features is common to both the Happiness Index and HDI in determining a country's rank?

Q5. In 2026, the Government of India promoted green hydrogen initiatives mainly to support which SDG?

Q6. In April 2026, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change launched a five-year biodiversity governance project aimed at “greening” Gram Panchayat Development Plans (GPDPs). This initiative is most directly associated with which SDG?

Q7. According to the MoSPI bulletin "Planet in Focus," which specific Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) represents India's progress in clean water and sanitation in 2026?

Q9. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, under which more than 26 lakh households had benefited by December 2025, contributes most directly to which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) through promotion of rooftop solar energy and reduction of dependence on fossil fuels?

Q10. According to the Economic Survey 2025–26, India’s extreme poverty rate for 2022–23, based on the revised international poverty line, was estimated at what level?

Q11. Which of the following organisations releases the National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) in India?

Q12. The Human Development Index (HDI) rankings are based on a score between _________.

Q13. When was the Rangarajan Committee constituted to review the Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in India?

Q14. How did the Rangarajan Group recommend updating the poverty line in the future?

Q15. Which of the following best describes ‘disguised unemployment’ in the Indian context?

Q16. What is GII in the context of Human Development?

Q17. The 20-Point Economic Programme was initially launched in 1975 primarily to:

Q18. The concept of Gross Enrolment Ratio belongs to the __________.

Q19. Which Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) specifically aims to ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all?

Q20. Which three indicators are considered while calculating the Human Development Index (HDI)?

Q21. According to World Population Prospects, 2024, what is the estimated peak of the world’s population in the mid-2080s?

Q22. Which type of unemployment is caused by a decline in aggregate demand during economic downturns?

Q23. As per report of Technical Group on Population Projections, the population of older ages (60 years and above) is projected to increase to _____ crores in 2036.

Q24. The National Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) is released by which of the following?

Q25. Where is disguised unemployment (hidden unemployment)generally found?

Q26. Why are the 1991 economic reforms sometimes associated with 'jobless growth'?

Q27. What type of unemployment is caused by technological progress?

Q28. Which of the following is an example of structural unemployment?

Q29. In the Human Development Index (HDI), the Education Index is measured using:

Q30. Which of the following indicators is NOT a component of the Human Development Index (HDI)?

Q31. How can developing countries like India reduce inter-regional disparities in human development within the education and healthcare sectors in the 21ˢᵗ century?

Q32. Which of the following reports is related to Human Development?

Q33. According to the 2021 data of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India's fertility rate in 2021 is stabilising at ___.

Q34. The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite index of _____.

Q35. When was the National Rural Economic Transformation Project (NRETP) launched?

Q36. In a country with high informal employment and low social protection coverage, which policy is likely to be the most effective in both poverty alleviation and employment formalization?

Q37. In which year was the report of Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in India submitted by the Dr. C Rangarajan Committee?

Q38. Which index does NITI Aayog use to analyze poverty in India by considering multiple factors like education, health, and living standards?

Q39. Which of the following scholars introduced the concept of human development?

Q40. How many main approaches are there to human development?

Q41. Which of the following programs aims at self-employment for the rural poor?

Q42. What term describes a situation in which a person is employed but not in the desired capacity, in terms of compensation, hours, or skill level?

Q43. What is the term used for rural self-help group (SHG) women earning ₹1 lakh or more annually?

Q44. What does the Food for Work Programme aim to provide to the rural poor of backward districts?

Q45. The conceptual framework of Human Development was pioneered by:

Q46. Which method of measuring unemployment includes people who are in the reference year? Who were unemployed and which basically indicates chronic unemployment?

Q47. India adopted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in which year?

Q48. Which of the following committees, in its 2009 report, is known for introducing a widely used method to estimate poverty levels in India?

Q49. Which of the following dimensions is NOT directly included in the Human Development Index (HDI)?

Q50. The Five Ps of Sustainable Development are:

Q51. Social indicators of development improved after economic growth accelerated. Which of the following indicators saw the most consistent improvement after 1991?

Q53. In the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, how many criteria were there for automatic inclusion of rural households?

Q54. In the Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, how many deprivation criteria was there?

Q55. Training of Rural Youth for Self-Employment (TRYSEM) was initiated in which year?

Q56. Which of the following statements about MGNREGA is incorrect?

Q57. Which report regularly publishes the Human Development Index (HDI) including India's ranking?

Q58. A low Human Development Index (HDI) primarily indicates:

Q59. Under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), what type of work is guaranteed to registered rural households?

Q60. What economic indicator does the 'Gini Coefficient' primarily measure?

Q61. The 'Family Planning Programme' to control population growth was introduced by the Government of India in which year?

Q62. What is the 'poverty line' primarily used to measure?

Q63. The 'National Population Policy 2000' (NPP 2000) aimed to achieve a stable population by which target year?

Q65. The Human Development Index (HDI) is published by which of the following organizations?

Q66. Who publishes the Human Development Index (HDI)?

Q67. Which term best describes the demographic and economic phenomenon resulting from the outflow of a source region's highly skilled labor?

Q68. The Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) aims to mobilize all rural poor households into Self Help Groups (SHG). What is the prescribed minimum number of women required to form a new SHG under the scheme guidelines?

Q69. Which of the following combinations of indicators is used by the UNDP to compare countries in its Human Development Report?

Q70. What does a low Human Development Index (HDI) score indicate?

Q71. Which government initiative focuses on promoting self-reliance and entrepreneurship among women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs)?

Q72. Which program was launched in 1983 to provide wage employment to rural landless labourers?

Q73. What is measured by the Lorenz Curve?

Q74. What does "expected years of schooling" measure?

Q75. What does the MGNREGA stand for?

Q76. A substantial limitation of the Human Development Index (HDI) is its inability to capture:

Q77. The Rural Landless Employment Guarantee Programme (RLEGP) was initiated in the ________ Five-Year Plan.

Q78. The "capability approach" as applied to the Human Development Index (HDI) has been criticized for:

Q79. What is used to measure the health dimension in HDI?

Q80. The Expert Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. C. Rangarajan to Review the Methodology for Measurement of Poverty in the country was constituted by the Planning Commission in _____.

Q81. The term 'Current Weekly Status' in India is related to which of the following?

Q82. According to the Report of the Technical Group on Population Projections (July 2020), India's elderly population is expected to reach _____ million by 2031.

Q83. Which of the following is a reason of Brain drain in India?I. Low job opportunities in IndiaII. Low quality of higher education in India.

Q25. Where is disguised unemployment (hidden unemployment)
generally found?

Q83. Which of the following is a reason of Brain drain in India?
I. Low job opportunities in India
II. Low quality of higher education in India.

Q87. In India, the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 was conducted by which of the following?
I. Ministry of Rural Development
II. Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs

Q88. India's Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011 has a meaningful use in which
of the following initiative?
I. MGNREGA
II. National Food Security Act

Q91. Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct option:
Assertion(A): The Human Development Index can increase even if income drops.
Reason(R): Improvements in life expectancy and education can offset income decline.

Q92. Read the below statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark the correct options:
Assertion (A):Human Development Index (HDI) in India improved significantly post-2010.
Reason (R):The methodology was revised globally to include inequality-adjusted Human Development Index (HDI).