NCERT Solutions Class 9 Economics (social Science) Chapter – 2 People as Resource Quesiton Answer
Back Excercise Question & Answer
Q. 1. What do you understand by ‘people as a resource’?
Answer:-
Understanding ‘People as a Resource’
The term ‘People as a Resource’ refers to the population as an asset rather than a liability. It highlights how human beings contribute to the economy through their skills, education, and health. When investments are made in education, training, and healthcare, people become human capital, increasing productivity and economic growth.
Key Aspects of ‘People as a Resource’
Human Capital Formation
- Education and skill development enhance a person’s ability to contribute to the economy.
- Example: A trained doctor or engineer adds value to society through their expertise.
Economic Contribution
- A well-educated and healthy population leads to higher productivity and innovation.
- Countries with strong human capital experience faster economic growth.
Difference from Other Resources
- Unlike land or physical capital, human resources can improve with investment in education and health.
- Skilled individuals can utilize natural and physical resources efficiently.
Conclusion
‘People as a Resource’ emphasizes the importance of education, health, and skill development in transforming the population into an asset. Investing in human capital leads to higher productivity, economic growth, and improved living standards.
Q. 2. How is human resource different from other resources like land and physical capital?
Answer:-
Difference Between Human Resource and Other Resources
| Aspect | Human Resource | Land and Physical Capital |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Refers to people with skills, education, and health who contribute to economic growth. | Includes natural resources (land) and man-made assets (machinery, buildings, tools). |
| Renewability | Can be improved through education and healthcare, making it more productive over time. | Land is fixed, and physical capital depreciates over time. |
| Utilization | Human resource utilizes land and physical capital to generate output. | Land and physical capital cannot function without human intervention. |
| Impact on Economy | A skilled and healthy population increases productivity and innovation. | Physical capital supports production but requires human expertise to operate. |
Conclusion
Human resource is dynamic and renewable, unlike land and physical capital, which are fixed and dependent on human intervention. Investing in education, skill development, and healthcare enhances human capital, leading to economic growth and sustainable development.
Q. 3. What is the role of education in human capital formation?
Answer:-
Role of Education in Human Capital Formation
Education plays a crucial role in human capital formation, as it enhances an individual’s skills, knowledge, and productivity, contributing to economic growth.
Key Contributions of Education
Improves Skills and Productivity
- Education equips individuals with technical and professional skills, making them more efficient in their work.
- A well-educated workforce leads to higher economic output and innovation.
Increases Employment Opportunities
- Educated individuals have better job prospects and earn higher wages.
- They can work in diverse fields such as engineering, medicine, business, and technology.
Enhances Economic Growth
- Countries with a high literacy rate experience faster economic development.
- Education fosters entrepreneurship, leading to new businesses and industries.
Improves Social Development
- Educated individuals contribute to better governance, healthcare, and environmental awareness.
- It reduces poverty and inequality by providing equal opportunities for all.
Conclusion
Education is a vital component of human capital formation, as it enhances skills, increases employment opportunities, and drives economic growth. Investing in education leads to a more productive, innovative, and socially developed society.
Q. 4. What is the role of health in human capital formation?
Answer:-
Role of Health in Human Capital Formation
Health plays a crucial role in human capital formation, as a healthy population is more productive, efficient, and capable of contributing to economic growth.
Key Contributions of Health
Improves Productivity
- A healthy individual can work efficiently and for longer hours, leading to higher output.
- Poor health reduces work capacity and increases absenteeism.
Enhances Learning and Skill Development
- Good health ensures better cognitive abilities, allowing individuals to acquire skills and education effectively.
- Malnutrition and illness can hinder learning and development.
Reduces Healthcare Costs
- A healthy population requires less medical intervention, reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
- Preventive healthcare leads to lower expenses for individuals and governments.
Supports Economic Growth
- Countries with better healthcare systems experience higher economic development.
- A strong workforce contributes to industrial and technological advancements.
Conclusion
Health is a vital component of human capital formation, as it directly impacts productivity, learning, and economic growth. Investing in healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation ensures a strong, capable, and efficient workforce, leading to overall national development.
Q. 5. What part does health play in the individual’s working life?
Answer:-
Role of Health in an Individual’s Working Life
Health plays a vital role in an individual’s working life, as it directly impacts productivity, efficiency, and overall well-being. A healthy person can work regularly, effectively, and for longer hours, contributing to economic growth.
Key Contributions of Health
Higher Productivity
- A healthy worker performs tasks efficiently and with greater focus.
- Poor health leads to low energy levels, reducing work output.
Regular Employment
- Healthy individuals can work consistently without frequent absences due to illness.
- Unhealthy workers may face job insecurity due to frequent sick leaves.
Better Income and Living Standards
- A healthy person can earn more by working efficiently and securing better job opportunities.
- Poor health may lead to lower wages and financial instability.
Reduced Healthcare Costs
- A healthy individual spends less on medical expenses, allowing them to save and invest in their future.
- Frequent illnesses increase financial burden and dependency on healthcare services.
Conclusion
Health is a crucial factor in an individual’s working life, as it determines productivity, employment stability, and financial well-being. Investing in healthcare, nutrition, and sanitation ensures a strong, capable, and efficient workforce, leading to overall national development.
Q. 6. What are the various activities undertaken in the primary sector, secondary sector and tertiary sector?
Answer:-
Activities in Different Economic Sectors
Economic activities are classified into three sectors based on the nature of work:
1. Primary Sector (Agriculture and Related Activities)
This sector involves the extraction of natural resources directly from the Earth. Examples include:
- Agriculture – Growing crops like wheat, rice, and vegetables.
- Forestry – Cultivation and harvesting of trees for timber and paper.
- Fishing – Catching fish from rivers, lakes, and oceans.
- Animal Husbandry – Rearing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and poultry.
- Mining – Extracting minerals like coal, iron, and petroleum.
2. Secondary Sector (Manufacturing and Construction)
This sector involves processing raw materials into finished goods. Examples include:
- Manufacturing – Producing goods like textiles, automobiles, and electronics.
- Construction – Building houses, roads, bridges, and dams.
- Food Processing – Converting agricultural products into packaged food items.
- Steel and Cement Industry – Producing materials for infrastructure development.
3. Tertiary Sector (Services and Trade)
This sector provides services rather than goods. Examples include:
- Transport – Railways, roadways, airways, and shipping services.
- Banking and Finance – Providing loans, insurance, and investment services.
- Education – Schools, colleges, and training institutes.
- Healthcare – Hospitals, clinics, and medical services.
- Tourism and Hospitality – Hotels, travel agencies, and entertainment services.
Conclusion
Each sector plays a crucial role in economic development. The primary sector provides raw materials, the secondary sector processes them into finished goods, and the tertiary sector facilitates distribution and services. A balanced growth across all sectors ensures a strong and sustainable economy.
Q. 7. What is the difference between economic activities and non-economic activities?
Answer:-
Difference Between Economic and Non-Economic Activities
| Aspect | Economic Activities | Non-Economic Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Activities that involve the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services for income or profit. | Activities performed for personal satisfaction, social service, or emotional fulfillment, without financial gain. |
| Objective | To earn money and contribute to the economy. | To provide personal or social benefits without monetary compensation. |
| Examples | Working in a factory, running a business, farming, teaching in a school for salary. | Cooking for family, volunteering, taking care of children, social work. |
| Impact on Economy | Adds value to national income and economic growth. | Does not contribute directly to national income but improves social well-being. |
Conclusion
Economic activities are income-generating and contribute to the economy, while non-economic activities focus on personal or social welfare without financial benefits. Both types of activities are essential for a balanced and progressive society.
Q. 8. Why are women employed in low paid work?
Answer:-
Reasons Why Women Are Employed in Low-Paid Work
Women often receive lower wages compared to men due to several social and economic factors:
Limited Education and Skill Development
- Many women have less access to education and vocational training, leading to lower-paying jobs.
- Higher-paying jobs often require specialized skills, which women may not have due to societal barriers.
Employment in the Unorganized Sector
- A large number of women work in informal jobs such as domestic work, agriculture, and small-scale industries.
- These jobs lack job security, benefits, and fair wages.
Social and Cultural Factors
- Traditional gender roles often restrict women to part-time or low-paying jobs.
- Employers may prefer men for higher-paying positions due to biases in hiring practices.
Lack of Legal Protection and Awareness
- Many women are unaware of minimum wage laws and their rights as workers.
- Weak enforcement of labor laws leads to wage discrimination.
Conclusion
Women are often employed in low-paid work due to limited education, informal employment, societal norms, and weak legal enforcement. To address this issue, governments and organizations must focus on education, skill development, equal pay policies, and stronger labor protections to ensure fair wages and better opportunities for women.
Q. 9. How will you explain the term unemployment?
Answer:-
Definition of Unemployment
Unemployment refers to a situation where people who are willing to work at the prevailing wages cannot find jobs. It occurs when individuals actively seek employment but remain jobless due to various economic and social factors.
Types of Unemployment
- Seasonal Unemployment – Found in agricultural sectors where workers remain unemployed during off-seasons.
- Disguised Unemployment – When more people are engaged in a task than required, leading to hidden unemployment.
- Educated Unemployment – Occurs when qualified individuals cannot find suitable jobs despite having degrees.
Impact of Unemployment
- Leads to wastage of human resources and economic slowdown.
- Causes poverty and financial instability among families.
- Creates social issues like crime and frustration among youth.
Conclusion
Unemployment is a serious economic issue that affects individuals and society. Addressing it requires skill development, job creation, and government policies to ensure employment opportunities for all.
Q. 10. What is the difference between disguised unemployment and seasonal unemployment?
Answer:-
Difference Between Disguised Unemployment and Seasonal Unemployment
| Aspect | Disguised Unemployment | Seasonal Unemployment |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A situation where more people are engaged in work than required, leading to hidden unemployment. | A situation where workers remain unemployed during certain seasons due to lack of work. |
| Nature | Exists year-round, often unnoticed. | Occurs during specific months when work is unavailable. |
| Example | In agriculture, if a task requires five workers but employs eight, the extra three are disguisedly unemployed. | Farmers who work during sowing and harvesting seasons but remain unemployed in off-seasons. |
| Impact | Reduces productivity as extra workers do not contribute effectively. | Leads to temporary job loss, affecting income stability. |
Conclusion
Disguised unemployment occurs when more workers are engaged than necessary, while seasonal unemployment happens when work is unavailable during certain months. Both types of unemployment affect economic growth and require government policies to create alternative job opportunities.
Q. 11. Why is educated unemployed, a peculiar problem of India?
Answer:-
Educated Unemployment: A Peculiar Problem in India
Educated unemployment refers to a situation where qualified individuals with degrees are unable to find suitable jobs. In India, this issue is particularly concerning due to several factors:
Reasons for Educated Unemployment in India
Mismatch Between Education and Job Market
- Many graduates hold degrees that do not match industry requirements.
- Lack of practical skills and vocational training leads to difficulty in securing jobs.
Limited Job Opportunities
- The number of educated individuals is increasing, but job creation is not keeping pace.
- Government and private sectors do not generate enough employment for all graduates.
Preference for Government Jobs
- Many educated youth prefer government jobs, which have limited vacancies.
- Private sector jobs often require experience, making it difficult for fresh graduates to get hired.
Overcrowding in Certain Fields
- Excess manpower exists in fields like arts and humanities, while technical sectors face shortages.
- This imbalance leads to unemployment among graduates despite job openings in other industries.
Conclusion
Educated unemployment is a serious issue in India, as it leads to wastage of human resources and economic inefficiency. To address this problem, the government must focus on skill development, vocational training, entrepreneurship programs, and job creation to ensure that educated individuals find meaningful employment.
Q. 12. In which field do you think India can build the maximum employment opportunity?
Answer:-
Fields for Maximum Employment Opportunities in India
India has immense potential to generate employment across various sectors. Some of the key fields that can create the highest job opportunities include:
Agriculture and Allied Activities
- Agriculture remains the largest employment sector in India.
- Expanding agro-based industries, organic farming, and food processing can create more jobs.
Manufacturing and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises)
- Strengthening the Make in India initiative can boost manufacturing jobs.
- MSMEs provide employment to a large workforce, especially in rural areas.
Service Sector (IT, Healthcare, Education, and Tourism)
- The IT industry continues to grow, offering jobs in software development, AI, and cybersecurity.
- Healthcare and education require skilled professionals, creating employment in hospitals and schools.
- Tourism and hospitality can generate jobs in hotels, travel agencies, and transport services.
Infrastructure and Construction
- Large-scale projects like highways, metro rail, and smart cities create jobs for engineers, laborers, and technicians.
Renewable Energy and Green Jobs
- Solar and wind energy projects can provide employment in installation, maintenance, and research.
Conclusion
India can maximize employment opportunities by focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, services, infrastructure, and renewable energy. Government policies supporting skill development, entrepreneurship, and investment can further enhance job creation and economic growth.
Q. 13. Can you suggest some measures in the education system to mitigate the problem of the educated unemployed?
Answer:-
Measures to Mitigate Educated Unemployment in India
Educated unemployment is a growing concern in India due to the mismatch between education and job market demands. To address this issue, the education system must focus on skill development, vocational training, and industry alignment.
Key Measures
Skill-Based Education
- Introduce practical and vocational training alongside theoretical learning.
- Encourage internships and apprenticeships to provide hands-on experience.
Industry-Oriented Curriculum
- Align courses with market demands to ensure students acquire relevant skills.
- Collaborate with industries to design job-oriented programs.
Promotion of Entrepreneurship
- Include entrepreneurship training in school and college curricula.
- Provide financial support and mentorship for startups.
Expansion of Technical and Vocational Institutes
- Strengthen ITI (Industrial Training Institutes) and polytechnic colleges.
- Offer short-term skill development programs for job seekers.
Improved Career Guidance and Counseling
- Establish career counseling centers to guide students in choosing suitable careers.
- Conduct job fairs and placement drives to connect graduates with employers.
Conclusion
To reduce educated unemployment, India’s education system must focus on skill-based learning, industry collaboration, entrepreneurship, and vocational training. A well-structured approach will ensure that graduates are job-ready and equipped with practical skills, leading to better employment opportunities.
Q. 14. Can you imagine some village which initially had no job opportunities but later came up with many?
Answer:-
Example of a Village That Transformed Its Employment Opportunities
One such example is Ralegan Siddhi, a village in Maharashtra. Initially, it faced severe unemployment, poverty, and drought, with very few job opportunities. However, over time, the village transformed through sustainable development and employment generation.
How Employment Opportunities Increased
Water Conservation and Agriculture Growth
- The village adopted rainwater harvesting and watershed management, improving irrigation.
- This led to higher agricultural productivity, creating jobs for farmers and laborers.
Promotion of Dairy Farming and Agro-Based Industries
- Farmers started dairy farming, increasing income and employment.
- Agro-based industries like food processing and organic farming provided additional jobs.
Skill Development and Education
- Vocational training programs helped villagers learn carpentry, tailoring, and handicrafts.
- Education improved, leading to better employment opportunities outside agriculture.
Renewable Energy and Sustainable Practices
- The village adopted solar and biogas energy, creating jobs in installation and maintenance.
- Sustainable farming methods ensured long-term employment stability.
Conclusion
Ralegan Siddhi’s transformation shows that proper planning, resource management, and skill development can turn an economically struggling village into a thriving community. Investing in agriculture, industries, education, and sustainable practices can create new job opportunities, improving livelihoods and economic growth.
Q. 15. Which capital would you consider the best — land, labour, physical capital and human capital? Why?
Answer:-
Best Capital: Human Capital
Among land, labour, physical capital, and human capital, human capital is considered the most valuable because it utilizes and enhances all other resources.
Reasons Why Human Capital Is the Best
Utilization of Other Resources
- Land, labour, and physical capital cannot function on their own—they require skilled individuals to use them effectively.
- Example: A trained farmer can maximize land productivity, while an engineer can optimize machinery usage.
Innovation and Economic Growth
- Human capital drives technological advancements, leading to higher productivity.
- Countries like Japan have limited natural resources but thrive due to investment in education and skill development.
Adaptability and Development
- Unlike land and physical capital, human capital can learn, adapt, and improve over time.
- Skilled workers increase efficiency, leading to better economic outcomes.
Conclusion
Human capital is the most crucial resource, as it enhances productivity, drives innovation, and optimizes other resources. Investing in education, healthcare, and skill development ensures long-term economic growth and national progress.