Class 9 Economics
Chapter 1 : The Story of Village Palampur
The chapter “Farming in Palampur” provides an insightful look into the economic activities and social structure of the fictional village of Palampur.
Introduction to Palampur:
Palampur is a small village in India that serves as a representation of rural economic activities and social dynamics.
The chapter explores the factors of production—land, labor, and capital—and their utilization in farming activities in Palampur.
Factors of Production:
Land: Land is a crucial resource for farming in Palampur. The land area under cultivation is fixed, and there has been no expansion since 1960.
Labor: Labor is abundant in Palampur, with many people working as farm laborers for low wages.
Capital: Capital is scarce, especially for small farmers who often need to borrow money for farming activities.
Social Structure:
The village has a mixed population of upper caste and lower caste families, with disparities in land ownership and living conditions.
Lower caste families often work as landless laborers on farms owned by upper caste families, facing challenges such as low wages and debt.
Utilization of Resources:
Natural resources like land, water, and forests are utilized for farming activities.
Man-made items such as tools, equipment, and infrastructure support agricultural production.
Human effort, including farm labor and skilled labor, plays a vital role in economic activities in the village.
Money is used for capital investment, wages, and transactions within the local economy.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Farm laborers face issues like low wages, irregular employment, debt, and lack of social security.
The chapter highlights the importance of sustainable land management and efficient utilization of resources for economic development.
Conclusion:
The story of Palampur provides a nuanced understanding of rural economic activities, social hierarchies, and the interplay of factors influencing agricultural production and livelihoods in a village setting. Overall, the chapter offers valuable insights into the complexities of rural life, resource utilization, and economic challenges faced by individuals in a typical Indian village like Palampur
Class 9 Economics Chapter 1 Village Palampur
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Chapter Videos
Video 1: Factors of Production
Video 2 : Sectors of Economy
Video 3: Mining & oil Exploration: Primary or Secondary
Video 4 : Land Reclamation & Multiple Cropping
Video 5 : HYV Technology & Green Revolution
Video 6 : Can Land Sustain : HYV Technology Drawbacks
Video 7 : Institutional & Non-Institutional Credit
Video 8 : Land Distribution
Video 9 : Primary Non- Farm Activities
Video 10 : Competitive MCQs Part-I
Video 11 : Competitive MCQs Part-II
Video 12 : NCERT Q-A in 1 Hour
Video 13 : Full Chapter in 1 Hour
Class 9 Economics Chapter 1 Village Palampur
Extra Questions
(Latest Syllabus)
1. What are Factors of Production?
Factors of production refers to the inputs or resources that are used for carrying out any production. The production of a commodity requires the use of a number of varied kinds of inputs such as land, labourers, machinery, raw materials, electricity, water, computers, cellular phones, furniture etc. For the sake of simplicity, all these varied kinds of inputs can be classified into four categories depending upon their properties viz. land, labour, capital, and entrepreneur.
The land factor of production includes the natural resource of physical land along with all its minerals, plants, animals etc. on that piece of land which is used for carrying out production.
The Labour factor of production includes the labourers along with raw materials such as water, electricity, chalks, duster, industrial chemicals etc. It essentially Includes all those inputs that can be easily hired and fired or essentially varied as the quantity of production changes.
The Capital factor of production includes both machinery, tools, equipment such as computers etc and also physical infrastructure such as buildings, factories, dams, bridges, roads, airports, railway stations etc.
The Entrepreneur refers to the CEO or the manager or the owner of the company who is responsible for taking all the major decisions, and also for buying or hiring and combining the other three factors of production.
2. What are the features of village Palampur?
The village Palampur is a relatively well-developed village with the following features:
- It is a sufficiently big village with 450 families out of which 80 families belong to the upper castes with huge landholdings
- It has a relatively good means of transportation through bullock carts, bogeys, motor cycles, jeeps, tractors, trucks
- The village also has all weather roads (metalled) which makes the village well connected to the neighbouring villages and towns
- It also has large houses made of bricks with cement plastering
- The village has good electrical connections in all houses and farms, so much so that electricity is used for irrigation (Tube wells) and for running small businesses
- It has a good schooling system including two primary schools and a high school
- It also has a good medical infrastructure with both a government health centre and a private dispensary
- Although farming is the main activity, yet, some supporting non-farm activities such as small manufacturing, transport service, and shop keeping are also practiced.
3. What is Land Reclamation? Explain using examples
Land reclamation is a system whereby hitherto unused or barren land is brought into some productive use as cultivation, road construction, setting up buildings, houses, factories etc. Land reclamation is undertaken since the total amount of land available to any country is fixed. For instance, India’s total land area is 3.28 million square kilometres. Hence if the country wishes to expand its production possibilities, then one way of doing it is to make use of the land which has not been used till now for any purpose. Land reclamation ensures that no land is left idle or goes waste. Presently almost all barren land in India has been brought under cultivation, which is why the total area under cultivation in India is essentially stagnant at around 200 million hectares since 2010-11. There has also been no expansion in the land area under cultivation since 1960.
4. What is Multiple Cropping?
Multiple cropping refers to a system wherein two to three crops are taken from the same piece of land during a year. Such a practice ensures continuous use of land and that no land is left idle or wasted. This helps to increase the production of agriculture output by multiple times this is the foremost method of increasing the total agriculture output and hence marketable surplus in an economy. The system of multiple cropping is different from the single cropping system wherein in the entire year only one crop is taken and for the rest of the year land is left fallow to regain its fertility naturally.
5. What is Marketable Surplus? Why is it important to increase the marketable surplus of output?
Marketable surplus refers to the total amount of output which is left for selling in the market after the needs of the producer are met. In the case of farmers, marketable surplus refers to the amount of output that the farmer is able to sell in the market after meeting his own requirement for food. For instance if a farmer grows 1000 tonnes of wheat in a season from his land, out of which he keeps 200 tonnes for his own consumption throughout the year and for sharing with his friends and family then he is left over with 800 tonnes for selling in the market. These 800 tonnes of wheat output which the farmer sells is known as marketable surplus.
It is important to increase marketable surplus, as
- selling of the marketable surplus enables the farmer or any producer to recover his cost of production, generate profits, and fund the purchase of inputs for the growing of crops in the next season.
- It generates incomes for the farmers with which they are able to fund their other household expenditures
- a high marketable surplus is essential for feeding the entire population of the country,
- and for earning essential foreign exchange through exports.
For more questions and detailed content watch out for our Upcoming
Class 9 SST Book
(According to latest CBSE syllabus)
NCERT Questions
Story of Village Palampur
Class 9 Chapter 1 Economics
(Latest CBSE Syllabus)
1. Every village in India is surveyed once in 10 years during the census and some of the details are presented in the following format. Fill up the following on the basis of information on Palampur.
a. Location: Near Raiganj and Shahpur
b. Total Area of Village: 226 hectares
c. Land Use (in hectares):
d. Facilities
Medical
a government health centre and a private dispensary
Market
Raiganj and Shahpur
Electricity supply
Class 9 Economics Chapter 2 : People As Resource
Class 9 Economics Chapter 2 : People As Resource
NCERT Questions
Class 9 Economics Chapter 3 Poverty As A Challenge
Class 9 Chapter 3 : Poverty As A Challenge
NCERT Questions
Class 9 Economics Chapter 4 Food Security in India
Class 9 Chapter 4: Food Security in India
NCERT Questions
| Cultivated Land | Land not available for cultivation | |
| Irrigated | Unirrigated | 26 hectares |
| 200 hectares | 0 hectares | |
| Educational | two primary schools and a high school |
| Communication (transportation) | bullock carts, bogeys, motor cycles, jeeps, tractors, trucks |
| Nearest town | Shahpur |
2. Modern farming methods require more inputs which are manufactured in industry. Do you agree?
Yes, modern farming methods do require the use of more inputs which are manufactured in industry. The modern farming methods are based on the usage of such inputs as machines such as tractors, pump sets, harvesters, threshers, tubewells and also chemical fertilisers, pesticides etc. which are manufactured in industries. This has led to a significant rise in the cost of cultivation over the years.
3. How did the spread of electricity help the farmers in Palampur?
The spread of electricity has tremendously helped the farmers in village Palampur, as electricity has enabled the farmers to operate mechanised inputs such as pump sets, harvesters, threshers tubewells etc. This has enabled them to adopt multiple cropping and thus reap more than three crops in a year. Hence the farmers of village Palampur are able to generate huge output and sell their surplus produce in the market and earn profits.
4. Is it important to increase the area under irrigation. Why?
Yes, it is utterly important to increase the area under irrigation. Irrigation refers to the provision of regular and controlled supply of water to the plants for the purpose of cultivation. This is done through man-made sources of water such as tube wells, pumpsets, canals etc. It is important to increase the area under irrigation because plants need a regular supply of water to grow healthily and produce sufficient grain. Man made sources of irrigation are able to provide regular and controlled supply of water needed by the plants.
By contrast, natural sources of water such as through rain is uncertain and uncontrolled, thus severely restricting and stunting plant growth. As of 2022-23, only half of the total gross sown area has access to irrigation. The remaining half is still dependent on rains, making agricultural output uncertain.
5. Construct a table on the distribution of land among the 450 families of Palampur.
Number Of Families Landholding Size
150 0 hectares (landless)
240 Less than 2 hectares (small & marginal farmers)
60 More than 2 hectares (medium & Large Farmers)
6. Why are the wages for farm labourers in Palampur less than minimum wages?
The wages for farm labourers in Palampur are less than minimum wages because there is a greater supply of landless agricultural workers looking for work and very few employment opportunities. The farm labourers are also usually illiterate and unskilled and hence cannot find jobs in the high value non-farm sector which usually requires skilled labour. They are therefore totally dependent on the big farmers for employment on land thereby significantly reducing their bargaining power. Hence, they are not able to demand the minimum wages as permitted by law.
8. What are the different ways of increasing production on the same piece of land? Use examples to explain.
The different ways of growing more crops from the same piece of land includes adopting multiple cropping and using high yielding variety technology, also known as the new agricultural technology. For instance, if in a village all the land has already been brought under cultivation and no land is left idle, then there is no possibility of increasing the area under cultivation. To further increase the total amount of agricultural produce from the same land then, one crop after the other, season after season should be taken and the land should not be left fellow. Besides use should be made of the hybrid technology which involves the usage of HYV seeds chemical fertilisers chemical pesticides and mechanised inputs
9. Describe the work of a farmer with one hectare of land.
One hectare plot of land is too small to generate any reasonable amount of agricultural output. The produce from such a small piece of land is so small that it does not generate any marketable surplus. The farmer is thence not able to sell any output in the market to generate revenue for meeting his family expense. He is then forced to work on the plots of large and medium farmers or as casual daily page labourers on part time basis to supplement his income. Hence, the farmer works both as a farmer on his own land and as an agricultural labourer on a part time basis on some other farmers’ land.
10. How do the medium and large farmers obtain capital for farming? How is it different from the small farmers?
The medium and large farmers usually obtain institutional sources of credit because they are able to fulfil and furnish all the necessary requirements, such as a collateral, identity proof, residence proof etc. On the other hand, the small farmers are not able to fulfil all the requirements needed for institutional credit. Hence, they are dependent on the Non-Institutional sources of credit, which are highly exploitative and have very harsh repayment conditions such as very high rate of interest and very small term to maturity. It is therefore ironical that the large farmers with greater affordability are able to access cheap credit, while the poor farmers with limited repaying capacity are forced to rely on usurious unorganised credit.
11. On what terms did Savita get a loan from Tejpal Singh? Would Savitha’s condition be different if she could get a loan from the bank at a low rate of interest?
Savita, who is a small farmer got a loan at At very horse conditions from the large farmer Tejpal she was forced to pay a 24% rate of interest for four months. This is much higher than the institutional interest rate of five to 6% per annum. Besides she also had to work on Tejpal’s land as a farm labourer at the rate of Rs100 per day, which is much lower than the government specified minimum wage of 150 to 200 rupees per day.
12. Talk to some old residents in your region and write a short report on the changes in irrigation and changes in production methods during the last 30 years.
Self-Attempt exercise
13. What are the non-farm production activities taking place in your region. Make a shortlist.
Self-Attempt exercise
14. What can be done so that more non-farm production activities can be started in villages?
To start more non-farm production activities in the villages, It is foremost essential to provide adequate education, training and skills to the landless agricultural labourers and small and marginal farmers. Likewise they shall be able get employment and also start their own ventures in the higher value non-farm sectors such as sericulture, bee keeping, poultry, dairy, handicrafts etc. Also, the government needs to encourage more and more entrepreneurs to start their small-scale industries in the villages, so as to generate employment in the rural areas.
Chapter 2: People As Resource
The chapter ‘People as Resource’ emphasizes the transformation of population into human capital through investments in education, training, and healthcare. It discusses how human capital contributes to economic development by enhancing productivity and innovation. The chapter also explores the concept of economic activities across primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors, highlighting the role of each sector in generating employment opportunities. Additionally, it addresses issues related to unemployment, including disguised and educated unemployment, and suggests measures to mitigate these challenges. The chapter concludes with a narrative illustrating how a village transformed from having limited job opportunities to creating numerous employment prospects. Overall, the chapter underscores the significance of human capital in driving economic growth and development.
Class 9 Economics Chapter 2 : People As Resource
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Chapter Videos
Video 1 : Population: Asset or Liability?
Video 2 : Case Study of India & Japan
Video 3 : Education Schemes
Video 4 : Health Facilities
Video 5 : Falling Female Employment
Video 6 : Seasonal, Disguised & Educated Unemployment
Video 7 : Economic Non-Economic; Market Non- Market Activities
Video 8 : NCERT Q-A
Video 9: 15+ Short/Long Q-A in 1/2 Hour
Class 9 Economics Chapter 2 : People As Resource
Extra Questions
(Latest Syllabus)
1. What do you mean by Human Capital Formation?
Human capital formation refers to the Investments made in human beings through education, skill development, training, better nutrition, health and medical facilities, hygiene and sanitation standards etc. All of these investments get stored in the human being and improves his productive capabilities which then enables him to earn higher incomes for himself, his family and his nation and thus contribute a greater amount to the production of national output. Human beings then become capital and yield high positive returns for themselves and the society.
2. Account for the rise of Japan after the Second World War on the basis of human capital formation.
Japan invested very heavily in human capital formation by providing high quality education and health facilities to its population after the Second World War. It was on the basis of this huge human capital base that Japan became the fastest growing economy and the second largest economy in the world in the Post World War 2 era. It achieved this feat despite being bombarded with atomic bombs during the Second World War, which led to a complete destruction of its two major cities. Japan has a very small land area and is usually ravaged by natural calamities and disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. The rise of Japan is therefore mostly accorded to its very high human capital base.
3. What are Market and Non-Market Activities?
Market Activities are those activities that involve selling and buying of commodities (goods and services) in the market irrespective of their legality. For instance, buying and selling of groceries, clothes, spurious drugs, liquor (illegal) etc. falls in the category of market activities. By contrast, Non-Market activities are those that do not involve any buying and selling of goods and services through the market. These include the work of an NGO, religious organisations, care and affection of a mother, the work of a housewife, personal grooming, small daily production for personal use (cooking your own meal etc.)
4. Explain the difference between Economic and Market Activities with the help of an example ?
Economic activities can be both market and non-market activities. For instance, any new good and service produced in an economy (such as a car) and which is also sold in the market also becomes a market activity. However, the work of an NGO, government organisation, defence, police force is an economic activity as a service is being generated for the use by the public but there is not selling of these services in the market. Hence these are Non-Market activities despite being economics. Identically, the sale of a spurious liquor and banned drugs is a market activity, but not an economic activity as these goods are banned by law.
5. What is Gross Enrolment Ratio? What has been the trend in the GER?
Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) refers to the total number of people enrolled in a particular class as a percentage of the total population in the relevant age group. For instance, gross enrolment ratio of primary education is equal to the total number of people enrolled in classes one to five as a percentage of population in the 6 to 14 years of age. GER can also be more than 100% as the number of people enrolled can be both underaged and overaged. Hence in the above example the GER in primary education can include repeaters, kids less than 6 years and more than 14 years of age.
For more questions and detailed content watch out for our Upcoming
Class 9 SST Book
(According to latest CBSE syllabus)
NCERT Questions
People As Resource
Class 9 Chapter 2 Economics
(Latest CBSE Syllabus)
1. What do you understand by ‘people as a resource’?
The term ‘people as a resource’ refers to viewing the population not as a burden or liability but as a valuable asset for the economy. It emphasizes the idea that individuals possess skills, knowledge, and abilities that can contribute to the overall productivity and development of a nation. By investing in education, training, and healthcare, the population can be transformed into human capital, which enhances the country’s economic growth and prosperity. This perspective highlights the importance of recognizing and nurturing the potential of individuals to drive innovation, productivity, and progress in society.
2. How is human resource different from other resources like land and physical capital?
Human resource differs from other resources like land and physical capital in several key ways:
- Living : Human resources is a living factor of production while the others like land and physical capital are non living factors of production.
Intangible Nature: Human resource includes skills, knowledge, and abilities of individuals, which is intangible and cannot be physically touched or measured in the same way as land or physical capital.
Potential for Growth: Unlike land and physical capital, human resource has the potential for continuous growth in its numbers through reproduction, which is not possible in the case of either land or physical capital.
Adaptability: Human resource is more adaptable and versatile compared to land and physical capital. People can learn new skills, switch professions, and adapt to changing economic conditions, making them a dynamic resource.
Innovation and Creativity: Human resource is the source of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Unlike land and physical capital, which have fixed uses, human resource can generate new ideas and solutions to drive progress and development.
Social and Emotional Intelligence: Human resource possesses social and emotional intelligence, enabling collaboration, communication, and teamwork, which are essential for organizational success and societal well-being.
Overall, human resource stands out from other resources due to its dynamic, adaptable, and innovative nature, making it a crucial driver of economic growth and development.
3. What is the role of education in human capital formation?
Education plays a crucial role in human capital formation by enhancing the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of individuals, thereby increasing their productivity and contribution to the economy. Some key aspects of the role of education in human capital formation are:
Skill Development: Education provides individuals with the necessary skills and expertise to perform various tasks effectively. It equips them with technical, analytical, and problem-solving abilities that are essential for success in the workforce.
Knowledge Acquisition: Education facilitates the acquisition of knowledge in diverse fields, ranging from science and technology to arts and humanities. This knowledge base enables individuals to adapt to changing job requirements and contribute meaningfully to their professions.
Critical Thinking: Education fosters critical thinking, creativity, and innovation among individuals. It encourages them to question, analyze, and evaluate information, leading to the generation of new ideas and solutions.
Adaptability: Through education, individuals develop adaptability and flexibility to navigate complex and evolving work environments. They learn how to learn, enabling them to update their skills and knowledge continuously.
Economic Growth: A well-educated workforce is essential for driving economic growth and development. Education enhances productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness, leading to higher levels of innovation and prosperity in society.
Social Development: Education not only contributes to economic growth but also promotes social development by fostering values such as tolerance, diversity, and social cohesion. It empowers individuals to participate actively in civic life and contribute to the betterment of society.
In summary, education plays a pivotal role in human capital formation by equipping individuals with the skills, knowledge, and attributes necessary to thrive in the modern economy and contribute positively to the overall development of society.
7. What is the difference between economic activities and non-economic activities?
Economic activities are focused on generating income and contributing to economic growth, while non-economic activities are driven by social, personal, or cultural motives that may or may not not be directly linked to monetary gain or market transactions. Both types of activities play important roles in society, with economic activities driving economic prosperity and non-economic activities enriching the social fabric and well-being of individuals. Illegal non-economic activities can also lead to economic deceleration.
Examples of Economic Activities:
- Production of goods and services for sale in the market.
- Employment in sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, finance, and healthcare.
- Investment in businesses, stocks, and real estate for financial returns.
Examples of Non-Economic Activities:
- Volunteer work and community service.
- Household chores and caregiving within families.
- Personal hobbies, recreational activities, and artistic pursuits.
- Illegal activities
9. How will you explain the term unemployment?
Unemployment refers to a situation where individuals who are willing and able to work are unable to find suitable employment opportunities. It is a key economic indicator that reflects the state of the labor market and the availability of jobs for the workforce.
Chapter 3 : Poverty As A Challenge
The chapter on “Poverty as a Challenge” delves into the complex issue of poverty in India, highlighting its multi-dimensional nature and the various factors contributing to it. The chapter begins by discussing poverty trends in India and the world, emphasizing the concept of the poverty line as a measure of poverty. It explores the causes of poverty, vulnerable social groups, and the challenges faced in poverty reduction efforts. The chapter also sheds light on the anti-poverty measures taken by the Indian government, focusing on the promotion of economic growth and targeted anti-poverty programs. It emphasizes the importance of economic growth in poverty reduction and highlights the significant role it plays in providing opportunities and resources for human development. Furthermore, the chapter expands on the concept of poverty by introducing the idea of human poverty and social exclusion, indicating a broader understanding of poverty beyond just income levels. It encourages a more comprehensive approach to addressing poverty by considering various dimensions and factors that contribute to the deprivation experienced by individuals. In conclusion, the chapter underscores the evolving nature of poverty analysis and the need to adopt a holistic approach to poverty alleviation that addresses not only economic aspects but also social, cultural, and human development dimensions.
Class 9 Economics Chapter 3 Poverty As A Challenge
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Chapter Videos
Video 1 : Poverty Line: Methods & Drawbacks
Video 2 : Global Poverty: Causes & Effects
Video 3 : NCERT Q-A
Class 9 Chapter 3 : Poverty As A Challenge
Extra Questions
(Latest Syllabus)
For more questions and detailed content watch out for our Class 9 SST Book
(According to latest CBSE syllabus)
NCERT Questions
Poverty As Challenge
Class 9 Chapter 3 Economics
(Latest CBSE Syllabus)
1. Describe how the poverty line is estimated in India?
The poverty line in India is measured on the basis of the expenditure method suggested by the Tendulkar Committee and adopted by the Planning Commission. This involves finding the expenditure needed to buy bare minimum amount of food, clothing, fuel, footwear, educational and medical facilities, utensils furniture etc. For food, a calorie requirement of 2400 calorie per person per day in the rural areas and 2100 calories per person per day in the urban areas has been fixed. These calorie requirements can be met by items such as pulses, cereals, vegetables, milk, oil, sugar etc. The quantities are then multiplied by their prices to arrive at the minimum expenditure needed. On this basis the poverty line has been fixed at ₹816 per month per person in rural areas and ₹1000 per month per person in the urban areas.
2. Do you think that present methodology of poverty estimation is appropriate?
The present methodology of poverty estimation in India has been questioned from time to time on several grounds.
- The first and foremost objection to the current estimation of poverty line is its extremely low level of Rs. 816 per person per month in the rural areas and ₹1000 per person per month in the urban area. At such low levels at which it is very difficult for anyone to lead a dignified life.
- Secondly, the poverty line has not been updated and re-estimated since 2011. As a result, many new poor are deprived of government facility of subsidised food while some earlier poor who may now have come out of the poverty, are continuing to enjoy the government facility of free and subsidised rations.
- Third the poverty line estimates do not distinguish between the people just below the poverty line and those way below the poverty line and just above the poverty line. That is, it does not distinguish between the poor, and very poor.
- Fourth, poverty line estimates are based on a survey of only 1.5 lakh households or 5-6 lakh individuals out of a population of 130 crores.
- Fifth, they are based on survey recall methods which tend to under report the actual magnitude of income and expenditure and use too complicated methods to be understood by common man.
Therefore, there is a need for continuous evaluation and refinement of the methodology to ensure that it accurately reflects the living conditions and challenges faced by the poor in India.
3. Describe the poverty trends in India since 1973
The poverty estimates available indicate the following trends since 1973:
- The Percentage of population below the poverty line at the All-India level has more than halved from nearly 55% in 1973-74 to 22% in 2011-12.
- The Percentage of population below the poverty line at the rural level has nearly halved from nearly 56% in 1973-74 to 26% in 2011-12.
- The Percentage of population below the poverty line at the urban level has reduced to almost one third from 49% in 1973-74 to 14% in 2011-12.
- Despite falling poverty ratios, the number of poor below the poverty line actually rose at the All-India level, rural level and the urban level till 2004-05 and fell only thereafter.
- Poverty has fallen more steeply in urban areas than in rural areas. Hence the rural-urban poverty gap has increased in percentage terms.
- Even after almost 65 years of independence till 2011, one fifth of the population continues to remain poor.
But according to some recent estimates and the latest released fee figures of monthly per capita expenditure it is now estimated that India has been able to wipe out extreme poverty. It is also projected that the percentage of people below the poverty line may fall below 20% in the coming few years.
4. Discuss the major reasons for poverty in India.
The major reasons responsible for poverty in India include the following:
- The first and the foremost reason is the British rule that lasted for 200 years. The British Rule was responsible for massive de-industrialisation (destruction of native industries & handicrafts), no development of new modern industries as a part of industrial revolution that took place the world over at the same time, and huge Drain of Wealth. As a result, the Indian economy shrunk from 25% of world GDP in 1700 to barely 2% by the time of Independence in 1947. It is during the British rule that poverty appeared on in India for the first time, as there is no previous record of poverty in India.
- The second major reason is the population explosion that took place immediately after independence. India’s population grew at one of the world’s highest rate of 2.2% per year. At this rate, India’s population doubled every 35 years
- The third major reason was the low growth rate of the economy for almost 40-45 years after independence, during which India’s growth rate was stuck at nearly for 4%. Such low growth rate of income combined with a high growth rate of population kept the earnings of the people at extremely low and forced people to enter into low value services.
- Other reasons include highly unequal distribution of income earning assets such as land (failure of land reforms), capital, cattle etc; high indebtedness to fulfil family & social responsibilities causing debt trap & bonded labour etc.
5. Identify the social and economic groups which are most vulnerable to poverty in India.
The socioeconomic groups which are the most vulnerable to poverty in India include the following:
- Lower castes including dalits, Scheduled castes and scheduled tribes
- Rural landless agricultural labourers
- Urban casual labourers and daily wagers
- Trans genders; Physically handicapped
- Women, girl child, widows; Elders
Hence, while the average poverty ratios for all age groups below poverty line in India is 22%, it is 29% for Scheduled Castes; 43% for people belonging to Scheduled Tribes, and 34% for casual workers in urban areas. The incidence is even higher in case of double disadvantaged group of a landless casual wage labourer plus belonging to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Similarly, trans genders, the Physically handicapped, women, girl child, widows and elders face disadvantage and discrimination in job opportunities and distribution of wealth, leading to their poverty.
6. Given a give an account of interstate disparities of poverty in India.
Not all states in India have the same poverty ratios. While some states have extremely chronically higher rates of population, the others have low poverty ratios. The interstate disparities in poverty in India are as follows:
- Poverty is below the national average of 22% in the states of Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka.
- Poverty is above national average in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Assam, Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh
- Chhattisgarh has the highest poverty (~ 40%), while Kerala has the lowest (~7%) where the poverty is less than one fourth of than in Chhattisgarh.
- There has been a significant decline in poverty in the southern and western states of Kerala, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Gujarat owing to their emphasis on infrastructure and public distribution of food grains. Kerala reduced poverty thorugh human resource development.
- The Northern states of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan have succeeded in reducing poverty due to the adoption of the HYV technology which brough Green Revolution and immense agricultural growth rates. In West Bengal, land reform measures have helped in reducing poverty.
7. Describe global poverty trends.
The global poverty trends are as follows:
- Substantial reduction in global poverty. Fallen from 35% in 1990 to 10.68% 2013.
- Number of poor in China has come down from 85% in 1981 to 14.7% in 2008 and to 1.9% in 2013.
- Poverty has also reduced in South East Asia due to massive investments in human capital development and rapid growth process.
- In sub-Saharan Africa, poverty declined from 16% in 1990 to 5.4% in 2013
- In Latin America the ratio of poverty has declined from 11% in 1981 to 6.4% in 2008
- Re-emerged in some of the former socialist countries like Russia where officially it was non-existent earlier.
Chapter 4: Food Security in India
The chapter on food security in India highlights the importance of ensuring access to nutritious food for all citizens to achieve food security. It discusses the various factors contributing to food insecurity in the country, including poverty, agricultural challenges, natural disasters, and socio-economic disparities. The chapter identifies vulnerable groups such as landless agricultural laborers, small farmers, urban poor, marginalized communities, women, children, and elderly populations who are at higher risk of food insecurity. Specifically, the chapter mentions that economically backward states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra have higher incidences of food insecurity due to poverty, limited access to resources, and susceptibility to natural disasters. These states face challenges in ensuring food availability and access for their populations, especially in marginalized and remote areas. The chapter also discusses the role of the Indian government in addressing food security through initiatives such as the public distribution system, buffer stock management, and poverty alleviation programs like Integrated Child Development Services, Food-for-Work, Mid-Day Meals, and Antyodaya Anna Yojana. Additionally, cooperatives and NGOs play a crucial role in supporting food security efforts in the country. Overall, the chapter emphasizes the need for comprehensive strategies to address food insecurity in India, focusing on improving agricultural productivity, enhancing livelihood opportunities, strengthening social safety nets, and promoting inclusive development policies. By targeting vulnerable populations and regions, India can work towards achieving food security for all its citizens and reducing the prevalence of hunger and malnutrition in the country.
Class 9 Economics Chapter 4 Food Security in India
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Class 9 Chapter 4: Food Security in India
Extra Questions
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1. What do you mean by food security in a country? What are its various dimensions?/
Food security refers to the condition in which all individuals in an economy have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food that meets their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. It encompasses three key dimensions:
- Availability: Sufficient food is produced, imported, or stored within the country to meet the population’s needs.
- Accessibility: Food is physically and economically accessible to all individuals, meaning they have the resources to obtain food.
- Affordability: Individuals have the financial means to purchase an adequate quantity of safe and nutritious food.
Food security in an economy is essential for ensuring the well-being and health of individuals and communities, as it plays a crucial role in reducing hunger, malnutrition, and food-related health issues. It is a fundamental human right and a key component of sustainable development and poverty alleviation efforts worldwide.
2. How has the meaning of food security changed over the years in the world?
The concept of food security has evolved over the years to encompass broader dimensions beyond just the availability of food. Here are some key changes in the understanding of food security:
- Availability of Adequate Supply: In the 1970s, food security was primarily defined as the “availability at all times of an adequate supply of basic foodstuffs.” This definition focused on ensuring a consistent supply (production) of food to meet the population’s needs.
- Comprehensive Definition: The 1995 World Food Summit expanded the definition of food security to include physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet dietary needs and preferences for an active and healthy life. This comprehensive definition highlights the importance of not only having enough food but also ensuring its safety, quality, and nutritional value.
- Amartya Sen’s Contribution: Economist Amartya Sen emphasised that even if there is sufficient production of food in a country, the food may not be available or accessible to the poor as it may be hoarded or exported or diverted for other uses. He therefore introduced the concept of “access” to food through various means, including production, exchange in the market, and social support.
- Poverty Eradication: The understanding of food security now recognizes that poverty eradication is essential to improving access to food. Addressing poverty and inequality is crucial for enhancing food security and ensuring that all individuals have the means to obtain nutritious food.
Overall, the evolution of the concept of food security reflects a shift towards a more holistic approach that considers not only the availability of food but also factors such as access, affordability, quality, etc.
3. What happens to food security during times of natural calamity or disasters?
During times of natural calamities or disasters such as floods, droughts, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes etc, the food security of the nation or affected region can be severely compromised due to various factors:
- Decreased Food Production: Natural disasters such as droughts, floods, earthquakes, or cyclones can lead to a significant decrease in food production. Crop failures, destruction of agricultural land, and disruption of farming activities etc. can result in food shortages.
- Disruption of Supply Chains: Natural disasters can disrupt transportation networks, making it challenging to transport food from production areas to markets. This disruption can lead to food scarcity in affected regions.
- Price Volatility: Reduced food supply and increased demand during disasters can lead to price volatility. Rising food prices can make food unaffordable for vulnerable populations, exacerbating food insecurity.
- Loss of Livelihoods: Natural disasters can destroy livelihoods, particularly in rural areas dependent on agriculture. Loss of income and employment opportunities can limit people’s ability to purchase food, further worsening food insecurity.
Overall, natural calamities and disasters can significantly disrupt food security by affecting food production, distribution, affordability, and access. Effective disaster management is therefore essential to mitigate the impact of disasters on food security and ensure the availability of food during crisis situations.
4. What was the significance of the Bengal famine of 1943? Why was it called a man made famine?
The Bengal Famine of 1943 is known as one of the worst ever famines to hit mankind in modern times, during which 30 lakh people perished, out of which 20 lakh perished in Bengal alone within a brief period of just two months. The famine was the result of starvation, malaria, and other diseases which were made worse by malnutrition, unsanitary conditions, and lack of health care facilities.
The Bengal famine is infamous for being a Man-Made famine as it was not caused due to any failure or reduction of crop production. Rather, it was caused by food mis-management and mis-appropriation inflicted by the British government during colonial times. During 1943, Britain was involved in the Second World War (1939-45) and hence bulk of the food produced in India was diverted to Britain to feed its own population and the soldiers fighting on the front. This significantly reduced the availability of food within India, and escalated its price by multiple times, rendering it unaffordable for the poor, and thereby instigating a misery of unsurmountable proportions. As is obvious from the below given table extracted from AK Sen 1981, the food Production increased from 85 lakh tonnes to 93 lakh tonnes from 1938 to 1942. However, the food availability for the population fell from 85 lakh tonnes in 1938 to 70 lakh tonnes in 1941, precipitating severe malnutrition, starvation, debilitating diseases and epidemics among the general population and the farmers. This in turn significantly decreased both food grain production and food availability in 1943, eventually culminating into a mass scale and wide spread famine.
The significance of the Bengal famine lies in forcing the thinkers and policymakers the world over to change their focus on merely food production to food access, food affordability, food distribution, food availability etc. It made people realise that only food production is not sufficient for ensuring food security and fighting starvation deaths.
5. What is Public Distribution System? Critically evaluate the public distribution system of India.
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