A favourable credit arrangement helps borrowers use loans productively and repay them without falling into debt. Option (c) best represents this, as the farmer borrows from a formal source at a low interest rate of 4% and invests in cultivation, which increases productivity and income. Such loans prRead more
A favourable credit arrangement helps borrowers use loans productively and repay them without falling into debt. Option (c) best represents this, as the farmer borrows from a formal source at a low interest rate of 4% and invests in cultivation, which increases productivity and income. Such loans promote financial stability and rural growth. Hence, the correct option is (c).
A demand deposit in banks represents a modern form of money in India. It allows people to store their earnings safely and access them anytime through cheques, debit cards, online banking and UPI transactions. Unlike traditional forms like gold or commodities, it offers security, liquidity and easy tRead more
A demand deposit in banks represents a modern form of money in India. It allows people to store their earnings safely and access them anytime through cheques, debit cards, online banking and UPI transactions. Unlike traditional forms like gold or commodities, it offers security, liquidity and easy transfer of funds in a digital economy. Hence, the correct option is (b).
The primary sector forms the base of economic activity by supplying essential raw materials to the secondary sector. When a textile factory purchases raw cotton from farmers to produce fabric, it demonstrates how agriculture (primary sector) supports manufacturing (secondary sector). This interdepenRead more
The primary sector forms the base of economic activity by supplying essential raw materials to the secondary sector. When a textile factory purchases raw cotton from farmers to produce fabric, it demonstrates how agriculture (primary sector) supports manufacturing (secondary sector). This interdependence ensures industrial growth and economic balance. Hence, the correct option is (b).
Energy is essential for every aspect of life—industries, transportation, agriculture and household activities. Traditionally, we have depended on conventional energy sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas. However, these resources are limited, non-renewable and cause pollution. To ensure suRead more
Energy is essential for every aspect of life—industries, transportation, agriculture and household activities. Traditionally, we have depended on conventional energy sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas. However, these resources are limited, non-renewable and cause pollution. To ensure sustainable growth, the world has turned to non-conventional sources of energy, which are renewable, cleaner and eco-friendly. These include solar, wind, tidal, geothermal, biogas and nuclear energy.
Renewable and Sustainable
Unlike coal or petroleum, non-conventional sources can be renewed naturally and will never run out. Solar energy from the sun and wind energy from moving air are inexhaustible. They can be used repeatedly without harming the environment.
Environmental Benefits
Non-conventional energy reduces air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. For instance, solar panels produce electricity without smoke or waste. Similarly, wind turbines generate power without consuming water or releasing harmful gases.
Energy Security and Rural Development
These sources can help reduce India’s dependence on imported oil and gas, saving foreign exchange. Small-scale energy units like biogas plants or solar cookers can be installed in villages, providing electricity and clean cooking fuel to remote areas. This promotes rural employment and self-reliance.
Examples in India
India has vast potential for non-conventional energy:
Solar energy: India receives abundant sunlight throughout the year. States like Rajasthan, Gujarat and Telangana have large solar power plants such as the Bhadla Solar Park (Rajasthan), one of the largest in the world.
Wind energy: Tamil Nadu, Gujarat and Maharashtra are major producers, with projects in Kanyakumari and Jaisalmer.
Biogas: Many rural households use biogas for cooking, using cow dung and organic waste, reducing deforestation.
Tidal and Geothermal energy: Experimental projects are being developed in the Gulf of Kachchh (Gujarat) and Puga Valley (Ladakh).
Economic and Future Importance
As fossil fuels become scarce and expensive, renewable energy provides a cost-effective and long-term solution. It also supports Green Economy initiatives and helps India meet its climate change commitments under international agreements like the Paris Accord.
Conclusion
Non-conventional energy sources represent the future of sustainable development. They ensure energy security, reduce environmental harm and promote economic and social progress. By adopting these renewable sources, India can move towards a cleaner, greener and more self-reliant energy future—ensuring that development meets present needs without compromising the well-being of future generations.
Minerals are the backbone of modern civilization and one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth. Every stage of human progress — from the Stone Age to the present digital age — has been closely linked to the discovery, use and development of minerals. They form the raw materials for industrRead more
Minerals are the backbone of modern civilization and one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth. Every stage of human progress — from the Stone Age to the present digital age — has been closely linked to the discovery, use and development of minerals. They form the raw materials for industries, agriculture, construction and even daily human needs. Without minerals, our existence and economic development would be unimaginable.
Discoveries laid the foundation: From the earliest days of civilization, humans have used minerals for survival. The Stone Age people used stones, flint and clay for tools and shelter. Later, the Bronze Age and Iron Age saw humans mastering the art of extracting and using metals like copper, tin and iron, which revolutionized tools, weapons and agriculture. These discoveries laid the foundation of industrial and technological advancement.
Industrial growth and infrastructure: In modern times, minerals are indispensable to industrial growth and infrastructure. For example, iron ore is the basic raw material for producing steel, which is essential for building roads, bridges, railways, machinery and skyscrapers. Without steel, the modern world’s industries and transport systems could not function. Manganese is used to harden steel, bauxite is used for making aluminium (a lightweight metal used in airplanes and automobiles) and copper is vital for electrical wiring and electronics.
Natural Resources: Energy minerals such as coal, petroleum and natural gas form the foundation of industrial economies. Coal has powered industries and railways for centuries, while petroleum fuels vehicles, ships and airplanes and serves as a base for thousands of chemical products like plastics, paints and fertilizers. Uranium and thorium, the radioactive minerals, are key sources of nuclear energy, which provides large-scale electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.
Mineral-based fertilizers: Minerals are also crucial in agriculture. Fertilizer minerals like phosphates, nitrates, potash and sulphur improve soil fertility and enhance crop yields. Limestone is used to neutralize acidic soils and gypsum improves soil texture. Without these mineral-based fertilizers, modern agriculture could not sustain the growing global population.
Health and human biology: In addition, minerals play a vital role in health and human biology. Trace minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, iodine and magnesium are essential nutrients required for bone formation, blood production and enzyme functions. For instance, iron helps in the formation of hemoglobin, while calcium strengthens bones and teeth.
Minerals of the future: Minerals are also used in everyday life and technology. Silica is used to make glass, mica and quartz are used in electronics and graphite is used in pencils and lubricants. Precious minerals like gold, silver and diamonds are used for jewelry and as symbols of wealth and tradition. Rare earth elements such as lithium, cobalt and nickel are essential for manufacturing batteries, smartphones and renewable energy technologies, making them the “minerals of the future.”
Degradation and conservation: However, excessive mining and improper use of minerals have led to environmental degradation, deforestation and pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to practice sustainable mining, recycle metals and promote conservation to ensure that future generations also benefit from these natural treasures.
In conclusion, minerals are the foundation of human life and development. From food production to modern technology, from transportation to healthcare, minerals support every aspect of our existence. Their responsible use and conservation are essential for a sustainable and prosperous future.
Person X is discussing different borrowing situations in rural areas and tries to identify which one would be considered a favourable credit arrangement. Which of the following options do you think the best supports X’s understanding?
A favourable credit arrangement helps borrowers use loans productively and repay them without falling into debt. Option (c) best represents this, as the farmer borrows from a formal source at a low interest rate of 4% and invests in cultivation, which increases productivity and income. Such loans prRead more
A favourable credit arrangement helps borrowers use loans productively and repay them without falling into debt. Option (c) best represents this, as the farmer borrows from a formal source at a low interest rate of 4% and invests in cultivation, which increases productivity and income. Such loans promote financial stability and rural growth. Hence, the correct option is (c).
See lessWhich of the following is a modern form of money in India? (a) Gold jewellery (b) Demand deposit in banks (c) Commodity money like grain (d) UPI transection
A demand deposit in banks represents a modern form of money in India. It allows people to store their earnings safely and access them anytime through cheques, debit cards, online banking and UPI transactions. Unlike traditional forms like gold or commodities, it offers security, liquidity and easy tRead more
A demand deposit in banks represents a modern form of money in India. It allows people to store their earnings safely and access them anytime through cheques, debit cards, online banking and UPI transactions. Unlike traditional forms like gold or commodities, it offers security, liquidity and easy transfer of funds in a digital economy. Hence, the correct option is (b).
See lessWhich of the following examples best demonstrates how the primary sector supports the secondary sector?
The primary sector forms the base of economic activity by supplying essential raw materials to the secondary sector. When a textile factory purchases raw cotton from farmers to produce fabric, it demonstrates how agriculture (primary sector) supports manufacturing (secondary sector). This interdepenRead more
The primary sector forms the base of economic activity by supplying essential raw materials to the secondary sector. When a textile factory purchases raw cotton from farmers to produce fabric, it demonstrates how agriculture (primary sector) supports manufacturing (secondary sector). This interdependence ensures industrial growth and economic balance. Hence, the correct option is (b).
See lessExplain the importance of non-conventional sources of energy with examples.
Energy is essential for every aspect of life—industries, transportation, agriculture and household activities. Traditionally, we have depended on conventional energy sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas. However, these resources are limited, non-renewable and cause pollution. To ensure suRead more
Energy is essential for every aspect of life—industries, transportation, agriculture and household activities. Traditionally, we have depended on conventional energy sources such as coal, petroleum and natural gas. However, these resources are limited, non-renewable and cause pollution. To ensure sustainable growth, the world has turned to non-conventional sources of energy, which are renewable, cleaner and eco-friendly. These include solar, wind, tidal, geothermal, biogas and nuclear energy.
Renewable and Sustainable
Unlike coal or petroleum, non-conventional sources can be renewed naturally and will never run out. Solar energy from the sun and wind energy from moving air are inexhaustible. They can be used repeatedly without harming the environment.
Environmental Benefits
Non-conventional energy reduces air and water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. For instance, solar panels produce electricity without smoke or waste. Similarly, wind turbines generate power without consuming water or releasing harmful gases.
Energy Security and Rural Development
These sources can help reduce India’s dependence on imported oil and gas, saving foreign exchange. Small-scale energy units like biogas plants or solar cookers can be installed in villages, providing electricity and clean cooking fuel to remote areas. This promotes rural employment and self-reliance.
Examples in India
India has vast potential for non-conventional energy:
Economic and Future Importance
As fossil fuels become scarce and expensive, renewable energy provides a cost-effective and long-term solution. It also supports Green Economy initiatives and helps India meet its climate change commitments under international agreements like the Paris Accord.
Conclusion
Non-conventional energy sources represent the future of sustainable development. They ensure energy security, reduce environmental harm and promote economic and social progress. By adopting these renewable sources, India can move towards a cleaner, greener and more self-reliant energy future—ensuring that development meets present needs without compromising the well-being of future generations.
See lessExplain with examples the importance of minerals for human life.
Minerals are the backbone of modern civilization and one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth. Every stage of human progress — from the Stone Age to the present digital age — has been closely linked to the discovery, use and development of minerals. They form the raw materials for industrRead more
Minerals are the backbone of modern civilization and one of the most valuable natural resources on Earth. Every stage of human progress — from the Stone Age to the present digital age — has been closely linked to the discovery, use and development of minerals. They form the raw materials for industries, agriculture, construction and even daily human needs. Without minerals, our existence and economic development would be unimaginable.
Discoveries laid the foundation: From the earliest days of civilization, humans have used minerals for survival. The Stone Age people used stones, flint and clay for tools and shelter. Later, the Bronze Age and Iron Age saw humans mastering the art of extracting and using metals like copper, tin and iron, which revolutionized tools, weapons and agriculture. These discoveries laid the foundation of industrial and technological advancement.
Industrial growth and infrastructure: In modern times, minerals are indispensable to industrial growth and infrastructure. For example, iron ore is the basic raw material for producing steel, which is essential for building roads, bridges, railways, machinery and skyscrapers. Without steel, the modern world’s industries and transport systems could not function. Manganese is used to harden steel, bauxite is used for making aluminium (a lightweight metal used in airplanes and automobiles) and copper is vital for electrical wiring and electronics.
Natural Resources: Energy minerals such as coal, petroleum and natural gas form the foundation of industrial economies. Coal has powered industries and railways for centuries, while petroleum fuels vehicles, ships and airplanes and serves as a base for thousands of chemical products like plastics, paints and fertilizers. Uranium and thorium, the radioactive minerals, are key sources of nuclear energy, which provides large-scale electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions.
Mineral-based fertilizers: Minerals are also crucial in agriculture. Fertilizer minerals like phosphates, nitrates, potash and sulphur improve soil fertility and enhance crop yields. Limestone is used to neutralize acidic soils and gypsum improves soil texture. Without these mineral-based fertilizers, modern agriculture could not sustain the growing global population.
Health and human biology: In addition, minerals play a vital role in health and human biology. Trace minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, iodine and magnesium are essential nutrients required for bone formation, blood production and enzyme functions. For instance, iron helps in the formation of hemoglobin, while calcium strengthens bones and teeth.
Minerals of the future: Minerals are also used in everyday life and technology. Silica is used to make glass, mica and quartz are used in electronics and graphite is used in pencils and lubricants. Precious minerals like gold, silver and diamonds are used for jewelry and as symbols of wealth and tradition. Rare earth elements such as lithium, cobalt and nickel are essential for manufacturing batteries, smartphones and renewable energy technologies, making them the “minerals of the future.”
Degradation and conservation: However, excessive mining and improper use of minerals have led to environmental degradation, deforestation and pollution. Therefore, it is crucial to practice sustainable mining, recycle metals and promote conservation to ensure that future generations also benefit from these natural treasures.
In conclusion, minerals are the foundation of human life and development. From food production to modern technology, from transportation to healthcare, minerals support every aspect of our existence. Their responsible use and conservation are essential for a sustainable and prosperous future.
See less