Q1: Why was the young seagull afraid to fly? Do you think all young birds are afraid to make their first flight or are some birds more timid than others? Do you think a human baby also finds it a challenge to take its first steps?
Ans:
The young seagull was scared to fly because it was his first attempt, and he feared he might fall and get hurt. He doubted that his wings would hold him up during his first flight. It’s natural and understandable to feel scared when doing something for the first time. Surely, all birds must feel afraid before their first flight. Similarly, a human baby also feels fear and faces difficulty when taking its first steps or learning to crawl or walk without any support.
Q2: “The sight of the food maddened him.” What does this suggest? What compelled the young seagull to finally fly?
Ans: The young seagull couldn’t find the courage to take his first flight, even though his family kept scolding him and urging him to try. They left him alone on the ledge, waiting for him to be ready. After more than a day, he became very hungry. This hunger eventually pushed him to act. He became even more desperate when he saw his mother eating a fish nearby. He cried out, begging her to bring him food. When she came towards him with the fish, he was excited and full of hope, but she stopped before reaching him, leaving him confused. Overwhelmed by hunger, he jumped towards the food and fell off the ledge into the sea below. At first, he was terrified, but soon his wings opened up, and he realized that he could fly like the others. In the end, his hunger overcame his fear, and he joyfully made his first flight.
Q3: “They were beckoning to him, calling shrilly. “Why did the seagull’s father and mother threaten him and cajole him to fly?
Ans: The young seagull’s parents kept encouraging him, and he made several attempts to take his first flight. His two brothers and his sister had already flown away the day before. So he was left alone and hungry on the ledge. His father and mother were beckoning to him to fly shrilly. But the young seagull was too timid to fly. So they threatened to starve him on the ledge and cajoled him to fly because learning the art of flight was very necessary for a bird.
Q4: Have you ever had a similar experience, where your parents encouraged you to do something that you were too scared to try? Discuss this in pairs or groups.
Ans: Yes, I had a similar experience while trying to learn how to ride a bicycle when I was in the fourth standard. Initially, I found it difficult to balance myself and fell down often which developed a fear of cycling in me. Unable to overcome the fear, I gave up cycling, but my parents would always cajole me to try and practice cycling whenever I get time. My father would hold the bicycle from behind to help me balance myself, but whenever he left it, I would lose balance and fall down. Gradually as I practised every day, my cycling skills improved and I could ride it without my father’s support from behind and this also developed my confidence to a great extent. Thus, I overcame my fear of cycling and started riding a cycle confidently when I practiced it on a daily basis. Now, I use a cycle while going to and coming from school every day.
(Note: This answer can be written based on the individual’s personal experience.)
Q5: In the case of a bird flying, it seems a natural act and a foregone conclusion that it should succeed. In the examples you have given in answer to the previous question, was your success guaranteed, or was it important for you to try, regardless of the possibility of failure?
Ans: We face some problems in the initial stage while learning new skill. Due to the fear of failure, we hesitate to perform a task or to do something new. In case of the seagull his parents cajoled him to fly. In the example I have given in the answer of previous question, I was cajoled by my father to learn cycling. So, at that stage, I was to learn cycling as it was very important for me to overcome my fear. Yes, my success was guaranteed because if someone is determined to do something then success is assured. Moreover as said, practice, makes a man perfect.
II. The Black Aeroplane
Thinking about the Text (Page 40)
Q1: “I’ll take the risk.” What is the risk? Why does the narrator take it?
Ans: The pilot of the Dakota DS 088 was eager to get home to England to enjoy a holiday with his family. On his way, the plane was caught in a massive storm with dark clouds surrounding him. Despite the danger, he chose to fly straight into the storm because he didn’t want to miss the chance to be with his family for a proper English breakfast. Thus he took the risk of flying through the storm even though he could barely see anything.
Q2: Describe the narrator’s experience as he flew the aeroplane into the storm.
Ans: As the pilot (author) entered the storm, his plane started jumping and twisting. He could not see anything outside the plane as it was black. When he looked at compass and other instruments they had stopped to function due to storm. It was a terrible and fearsome experience for him. The fuel tank was almost empty and he could not fly more than ten minutes. Then he saw another black aeroplane by his side and the pilot of the plane signalled him to follow. It was a surprise for the narrator as the other black plane was having no light. He followed him without any choice and landed safely on the runway.
Q3: Why does the narrator say, “I landed and was not sorry to walk away from the old Dakota…”? Ans: The narrator took the risk of flying into the dark clouds. When there was a storm in the sky he didn’t have enough fuel to fly around the clouds. All the instruments of his plane had failed. It was difficult for him to land safely. However,the pilot of a strange black aeroplane guided him to the airport and the narrator was able to land safely. Thus his life was saved and he was not sorry to walk away from the old Dakota. He wanted to forget about this dangerous journey.
His heart was filled with gratitude towards the pilot of the mysterious black aeroplane, who had guided him during such a terrifying experience. However, he did feel a tinge of sadness for not being able to properly thank his unknown benefactor, who had helped him reach the runway safely.
Q4: What made the woman in the control centre look at the narrator strangely? Ans: The woman at the control center gave the narrator a puzzled look when he mentioned the black aeroplane that had guided him safely to the runway. She appeared surprised and informed him that there had been no other planes in the sky during the storm. According to the radar, the narrator’s plane was the only one flying in the night sky at that time. Q5: Who do you think helped the narrator to reach safely? Discuss this among yourselves and give reasons for your answer. Ans: It is very difficult to say about the unknown pilot who helped the narrator. But probably it was the narrator himself that helped him to overcome the fear in the storm as no other plane was seen in the radar except the narrator’s Dakota plane. In that fearsome situation, he might have been hallucinating. He himself was a good pilot and brave enough who helped himself land safely.
Thinking about the Language
Q1. Try to guess the meanings of the word ‘black’ in the sentences given below. Check the meanings in the dictionary and find out whether you have guessed right. 1. Go and have a bath; your hands and face are absolutely black__________. 2. The taxi-driver gave Ratan a black look as he crossed the road when the traffic light was green. __________ 3. The bombardment of Hiroshima is one of the blackest crimes against humanity. __________ 4. Very few people enjoy Harold Pinter’s black comedy.__________ 5. Sometimes shopkeepers store essential goods to create false scarcity and then sell these in black. __________ 6. Villagers had beaten the criminal black and blue. __________ Ans: 1. The meaning of ‘black’ in this sentence is that the face and hands are dark with dust and heat. 2. Here, ‘black’ refers to an angry look. 3. Here, ‘blackest’ refers to the darkest and cruellest crime against humanity. 4. Here, ‘black’ refers to dark and gloomy comedy. 5. The meaning of ‘black’ in this sentence is that the shopkeepers sell the described goods ‘at a higher price’. 6. In this sentence, ‘black’ signifies that the criminal was severely beaten by the villagers.
Page No: 41Q2. Match the phrases given under Column A with their meanings given under Column B:
Ans:
Q3. We know that the word ‘fly’ (of birds/insects) means to move through the air using wings. Tick the words which have the same or nearly the same meaning.
Ans: The words which have the same or nearly the same meaning as ‘fly’ are as follows: swoop, flit, flutter, ascend, float, skim, dart, hover, glide, soar, shoot, spring, sail, flap
Q1. Read the poem again, and work in pairs or groups to do the following tasks. (i) Find the words that describe the movements and actions of the tiger in the case and in the wild. Arrange them in two columns. (ii) Find the words that describe the two places, and arrange them in two columns. Now try to share ideas about how the poet uses words and images to contrast the two situations. Ans: (i)
(ii)
Q2. Notice the use of a word repeated in lines such as these: (i) On pads of velvet quiet, In his quiet rage.
(ii) And stares with his brilliant eyes At the brilliant stars.
What do you think is the effect of this repetition? Ans: The poet uses repetition to create a poetic effect, highlighting the tiger’s growing anger and silent helplessness while trapped in his concrete cage. The phrase “velvet quiet” refers to the tiger’s soft paws, which are quiet and unable to run or leap. The tiger can only pace within the small space of his cage. “Quiet rage” represents the tiger’s inner anger and wild nature, which is building up as he longs to run freely in the forest and hunt. His rage remains quiet because he is locked in the cage and powerless. The repetition of “quiet” adds a musical quality to the poem. Likewise, using the word “brilliant” for both the tiger’s eyes and the stars emphasizes the majestic nature of both. The tiger looks at the brilliant stars with his brilliant eyes, dreaming of the free and beautiful life he could have had in the forest. This repetition gives the poem a rhythmic flow and a sense of grandeur.
Tiger
Q3. Read the following two poems − one about a tiger and the other about a panther. Then discuss: Are zoos necessary for the protection or conservation of some species of animals? Are they useful for educating the public? Are there alternatives to zoos? The Tiger The tiger behind the bars of his cage growls, The tiger behind the bars of his cage snarls, The tiger behind the bars of his cage roars. Then he thinks. It would be nice not to be behind bars all The time Because they spoil my view I wish I were wild, not on show. But if I were wild, hunters might shoot me, But if I were wild, food might poison me, But if I were wild, water might drown me. Then he stops thinking And… The tiger behind the bars of his cage growls, The tiger behind the bars of his cage snarls, The tiger behind the bars of his cage roars.
— By Peter Niblett
The Panther His vision, from the constantly passing bars, has grown so weary that it cannot hold anything else. It seems to him there are a thousand bars; and behind the bars, no world. As he paces in cramped circles, over and over, the movement of his powerful soft strides is like a ritual dance around a centre in which a mighty will stands paralysed. Only at times, the curtain of the pupils lifts, quietly. An image enters in, rushes down through the tensed, arrested muscles, plunges into the heart and is gone.
–By Rainer Maria Rilke
Ans: A zoo is a place where various species of animals, including some that are endangered or on the brink of extinction, are housed and cared for. These animals, such as tigers, lions, and other vulnerable species, often face significant threats in the wild due to poaching for illegal trade, habitat destruction, and human encroachment. Zoos play a crucial role in the conservation and protection of these species by offering a controlled and secure environment where they can be safeguarded from such dangers.
Beyond mere protection, zoos also serve an educational purpose by raising awareness among the public about the importance of wildlife and its essential role in maintaining the ecological balance of our environment. Visitors can learn about the behaviors, habitats, and threats faced by these animals, helping foster a deeper appreciation for their conservation.
However, while zoos provide a safe space for endangered animals, other alternatives such as wildlife sanctuaries, forest reserves, and national parks offer a more natural setting. These places not only protect and conserve the species but also allow animals to live in their natural habitat with minimal human interference. These alternatives are vital for long-term conservation efforts, ensuring that animals can thrive in the wild while being shielded from poaching and habitat loss.
Q1. Where did the ceremonies take place? Can you name any public buildings in India that are made of sandstone? Ans: The ceremonies took place in the lovely sandstone amphitheatre formed by the Union Buildings in Pretoria, which were attended by dignitaries and world leaders of several nations. In India, the Rashtrapati Bhavan and Red Fort are two public buildings that are made of red sandstone.
Rashtrapati BhavanQ2. Can you say how 10 May is an ‘autumn day’ in South Africa? Ans: South Africa lies in the Southern Hemisphere. Hence, in Southern Africa the autumn season falls in May. 10 May was the day of South Africa’s largest gathering, with many international leaders in attendance to witness the installation of the country’s first non-racial democratic government.
Oral Comprehension Check – Page 19
Q3. At the beginning of his speech, Mandela mentions “an extraordinary human disaster”. What does he mean by this? What is the “glorious … human achievement” he speaks of at the end? Ans: In Mandela’s speech ‘an extraordinary human disaster’, he wanted to express his strong feelings against the practice of Apartheid in South Africa. Under Apartheid, there was racial segregation of people based on colour, and the blacks suffered the most as they were discriminated against by the rest. They could not enjoy the right to freedom. Mandela was jailed for 18 years on the infamous ‘Robben Island’ where he was mistreated by the authorities. He considered it a “great glorious human achievement” that he became the first Black President of South Africa, where the blacks were deprived of basic needs and suffered different kinds of discrimination, and were treated badly.
Q4. What does Mandela thank the international leaders for? Ans: Mandela felt extremely privileged to welcome the dignitaries and international leaders at the swearing-in ceremony because it was not too long ago when the South Africans were considered outlaws. He therefore, thanked all of them for having come from far and wide to witness the historical oath-taking ceremony of the first Black President of South Africa. This was a wonderful gesture of international recognition to a newly born free democratic nation. This event could be considered as a common victory for justice, peace and human dignity.Nelson Mandela
Q5. What ideals does he set out for the future of South Africa?
Ans:Mandela set the ideals of liberating the people of South Africa from the continuing bondage of poverty, deprivation, suffering, gender and other discrimination. He wanted the people of the country to enjoy the right to freedom from all forms of bondage and prejudice
Oral Comprehension Check – Page 21
1. What do the military generals do? How has their attitude changed, and why? Ans: The highest military generals of South African defence force saluted Mandela and pledged their loyalty which was of great significance as during apartheid era they would have arrested him. The change in their attitude was because of struggle and sacrifices put in by many heroes of South Africa. This struggle not only ensured the freedom of a nation struggling with apartheid, bur brought a change in mindsets of many. He believed that love can also be taught and human being is naturally inclined towards love rather than hate.
Q2. Why were two national anthems sung? Ans: On the auspicious occasion of the inauguration ceremony, two national anthems were sung. ‘Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika’, which was once the anthem of the black people who suffered under apartheid, and ‘Die Stem’, which was the anthem of the old Republic and was associated with the white community. Singing both anthems symbolized the unity and equality of all South Africans, regardless of race.
Q3. How does Mandela describe the systems of government in his country (i) in the first decade, and (ii) in the final decade, of the twentieth century? Ans: (i) In the first decade of the twentieth century, the white-skinned people of South Africa patched up their differences and erected a system of racial domination against the dark-skinned people of their own land, thus creating the basis of one of the harshest and most inhumane societies the world had ever known. (ii) In the final decade of the twentieth century, the previous system had been overturned forever and replaced by one that recognized the rights and freedoms of all peoples, regardless of the colour of their skin.
Q4. What does courage mean to Mandela? Ans: For Mandela courage does not mean the absence of fear but a victory over fear. According to him brave men need not be fearless but should be able to conquer fear.
Q5. Which does he think is natural, to love or to hate? Ans: Mandela thought that love comes more naturally to the human heart rather than hate.
Oral Comprehension Check – Page 241. What “twin obligations” does Mandela mention? Ans: Mandela mentions that every man has twin obligations. The first is to his family, parents, wife and children; the second obligation is to his people, his community and his country.
Q2. What did being free mean to Mandela as a boy, and as a student? How does he contrast these “transitory freedoms” with “the basic and honourable freedoms”? Ans: Like any other kid for Mandela also freedom meant the freedom to make merry and enjoy a blissful life. Once anybody becomes an adult, the antics of childhood looks transitory because most of the childish activity is wasteful from an adult’s perspective. Once you are an adult then someday you have to earn a livelihood to bring the bacon home, then only you get an honorable existence in the family and in the society.
Q3. Does Mandela think the oppressor is free? Why/Why not? Ans: Mandela does not feel that the oppressor is free because according to him an oppressor is a prisoner of hatred, who is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. He feels that both the oppressor and the oppressed are robbed of their humanity.
Thinking about the Text (Page 24)
Q1. Why did such a large number of international leaders attend the inauguration? What did it signify the triumph of? Ans: To be the part of the inauguration, international leaders showed a gesture of solidarity from international community to the idea of end of apartheid. It was the significance of the victory of good over evil and triumph of a tolerant society without any discrimination.
Q2. What does Mandela mean when he says he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots” who had gone before him? Ans: By saying that he is “simply the sum of all those African patriots”, Mandela offers his tribute to all the people who had sacrificed their lives in favour of the struggle for freedom. He says that he shall always remain grateful and thankful to those who had gone before him because those freedom fighters had paved the path of cooperation and unity for him. Therefore, Mandela felt that when he came to power, he would bring equality among his people with their support and cooperation.
Q3. Would you agree that the “depths of oppression” create “heights of character? How does Mandela illustrate this? Can you add your own examples to this argument? Ans: Yes, I agree with the statement that “depths of oppression” do create ‘heights of character”. Nelson Mandela illustrates this by citing examples of great heroes of South Africa such as Oliver Tambo, Walter Sisulu, Chief Luthulis, Yusuf Dadoos, Bram Fischers, and Robert Sobukwes, among others who inspired others by sacrificing their lives in the long struggle for freedom.
In India’s pre-Independence era, there was a galaxy of great leaders who didn’t bend their knees to the oppression of British rule, such as Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Lala Lajpat Rai, Chandra Shekhar Ajad, Bhagat Singh and many more. Nelson Mandela seems to be absolutely right, if we compare them with the quality of political leaders that came later. It seems that great leaders are created in the crucible of oppression and suffering.
Q4. How did Mandela’s understanding of freedom change with age and experience? Ans: With age and experience, Mandela understood the real meaning of freedom. As a young boy, he thought that he was born free and believed that as long as he obeyed his father and abided by the customs of his tribe, he was free in every possible manner. As he grew older, freedom to raise a family and freedom to earn livelihood started dominating his thoughts. Gradually he realised that he was selfish during his boyhood. He slowly understood that it was not just his freedom that was being curtailed, but the freedom of all blacks. It was the freedom from fear and prejudice. Age and experience widened his perspective of freedom.
Q5. How did Mandela’s ‘hunger for freedom’ change his life? Ans: During his youth, Mandela realised that it was not just his freedom alone that was being curtailed, but the freedom of all Black people. The hunger for his own freedom became the hunger for freedom for all his fellow brothers and sisters. In the process, this changed the fearful man into a bold rebel. Mandela sacrificed the comforts of a settled family life to fight for the freedom of his countrymen. He joined the African National Congress, and this transformed him from a frightened young man into a fearless person who fought against racial prejudice and colour discrimination.
Thinking about Language
I. There are nouns in the text (formation, government) which are formed from the corresponding verbs (form, govern) by suffixing − (at)ion or ment. There may be a change in the spelling of some verb−noun pairs: such as rebel, rebellion; constitute, constitution. Q1. Make a list of such pairs of nouns and verbs in the text.
Ans:
Q2. Read the paragraph below. Fill in the blanks with the noun forms of the verbs in brackets. Martin Luther King’s __________ (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the __________ (assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean __________ (subjugate) and __________ (humiliate) by the police and the legal system. Beatings, __________ (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Lither King’s tactics of protest involved non-violent __________ (resist) to racial injustice. Ans: Martin Luther King’s contribution (contribute) to our history as an outstanding leader began when he came to the assistance(assist) of Rosa Parks, a seamstress who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white passenger. In those days American Blacks were confined to positions of second class citizenship by restrictive laws and customs. To break these laws would mean subjugation (subjugate) and humiliation (humiliate) by the police and the legal system. Beatings, imprisonment (imprison) and sometimes death awaited those who defied the System. Martin Luther King’s tactics of protest involved non-violent resistance (resist) to racial injustice.
Page No. 25
II.Here are some more examples of ‘the’ used with proper names. Try to say what these sentences mean. (You may consult a dictionary if you wish. Look at the entry for ‘the’) 1. Mr Singh regularly invites the Amitabh Bachchans and the Shah Rukh Khans to his parties. 2. Many people think that Madhuri Dixit is the Madhubala of our times. 3. History is not only the story of the Alexanders, the Napoleons and the Hitlers, but of ordinary people as well.
Ans: 1. This means that Mr Singh regularly invites famous personalities such as Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan to his parties. 2. This means that Madhuri Dixit is compared to a landmark in acting in the form of legendary actress Madhubala. 3. This means that history is not only the story of the great fighters and leaders such as Alexander, Napoleon and Hitler, but also of ordinary people.
Page No. 26
III.Match, the italicised phrases in Column A with the phrase nearest meaning in Column B. (Hint: First look for the sentence in the text in which the phrase in column A occurs.)
Q1. There are many ideas about how the world will ‘end’. Do you think the world will end someday? Have you ever thought what would happen if the sun got so hot that it ‘burst’, or grew colder and colder? Ans: Yes, I believe that this world will end someday but when nobody knows. Whether the sun gets hot or it gets colder in both situations end of this world is sure.
Q2. For Frost, what do ‘fire’ and ‘ice’ stand for? Here are some ideas:
Greed
Avarice
Cruelty
Lust
Conflict
Fury
Intolerance
Rigidity
Insensitivity
Coldness
Indifference
Hatred
Ans: For Frost, ‘fire’ and ‘ice’ stands for destructive powers. ‘Fire’ stands for greed, avarice, lust, conflict, and fury. ‘Ice’ stands for cruelty, intolerance, rigidity, insensitivity, coldness, indifference and hatred.
Q3. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem? How does it help in bringing out the contrasting ideas in the poem? Ans: The rhyme scheme of the poem is: a, b, a, a; b. c, b, c,b.
The contrasting ideas of ‘fire’ and ‘ice’ are presented using this rhyme scheme. He mentions that both fire and ice are probable ends of this world. While he talks about how fire represents desire and can, therefore, be a cause of the end of the world, he also mentions ice in between to symbolise that the coldness and indifference towards one another will also be enough to end the world.
In the second stanza, he says that he knows of enough hate in the world to be sure that even destruction through the ice would be sufficient to bring about the end of the world.
This poem presents a moment that seems simple, but has a larger significance.[Compare this other quotation from Robert Frost: “Always, always a larger significance… A little thing touches a larger thing.”)
Q1. What is a “dust of snow”? What does the poet say has changed his mood? How has the poet’s mood changed? Ans: A “dust of snow” means the fine particles of snow. This “dust of snow” changed the poet’s mood. The poet’s mood changed from that of dismay to joy. He was holding the day in regret when this dust of snow fell on him and this simple little thing brought him some joy. Dust of SnowQ2. How does Frost present nature in this poem? The following questions may help you to think of an answer. (i) What are the birds that are usually named in poems? Do you think a crow is often mentioned in poems? What images come to your mind when you think of a crow? (ii) Again, what is “a hemlock tree”? Why doesn’t the poet write about a more ‘beautiful’ tree such as a maple, or an oak, or a pine? (iii) What do the ‘crow’ and ‘hemlock’ represent − joy or sorrow? What does the dust of snow that the crow shakes off a hemlock tree stand for? Ans: (i) Frost has presented nature in quite an unconventional manner. While in other nature poems we come across birds such as nightingales or sparrows, Frost has used a crow in this poem. A crow can be associated with something dark, black, and foreboding. That is why other poets usually mention singing nightingales or beautiful white doves in their poems.
(ii) The poet has written about a hemlock tree, which is a poisonous tree. He has not written about a more beautiful tree such as a maple, or oak, or pine because these trees symbolise beauty and happiness. Frost wanted to symbolise the feelings of sadness and regret, which is why he has used a hemlock tree.
(iii) The crow and the hemlock tree represent sorrow. The dust of snow that is shaken off the hemlock tree by the crow stands for joy that Frost experiences. He has, therefore, used an unconventional tree and bird in order to contrast them with joy in the form of snow.
Q3. Have there been times when you felt depressed or hopeless? Have you experienced a similar moment that changed your mood that day?
Ans: There have been innumerable times when I too have felt depressed and hopeless. Sometimes, such moments were aroused by other people’s behaviour and attitude and sometimes due to my own conduct. On one occasion when I was very upset. I went out for a walk. While walking in the park, I saw a girl playing with a puppy, embracing and feeding him. This little joy that they shared changed my mood and I felt very happy for the rest of the day. I also joined the two and played with them.
Q1. What did Lencho hope for? Ans: Lencho wasa farmer. He hoped for rain as the only thing that his field of ripe corn needed was a shower. Without rain, the crops would die, and he would suffer a big loss.
Q2. Why did Lencho say the raindrops were like ‘new coins’? Ans: Lencho compared the raindrops to ‘new coins’ because he believed they would help his crops grow, leading to a better harvest. This would bring him more prosperity. He imagined:
Big drops as ten cent pieces
Smaller drops as five cent pieces
This comparison reflected his hope for a fruitful yield and his optimism about the rain’s impact on his livelihood.
Q3. How did the rain change? What happened to Lencho’s fields? Ans: The rain initially poured down heavily. However, a strong wind soon picked up, bringing with it very large hailstones that fell alongside the rain. This hailstorm lasted for an hour, causing significant damage to Lencho’s fields:
The hailstones destroyed Lencho’s corn fields.
All the flowers were washed away from the plants.
The fields appeared white, resembling a layer of salt.
Not a single leaf remained on the trees.
Lencho felt deep sadness as he realised that this year, there would be no corn.
Lencho After Rain
Q4. What were Lencho’s feelings when the hail stopped? Ans: After the hailstorm, Lencho felt a deep sense of sadness. He realised that the storm had completely ruined his harvest. His thoughts were filled with:
A bleak future for himself and his family.
Worries about not having enough food for the coming year.
A feeling of despair, as he saw no hope left.
He stood in the middle of the field, reflecting on the devastation, and expressed to his sons, “A plague of locusts would have left more than this. The hail has left nothing. This year we will have no corn.”
That night was filled with sorrow, as Lencho lamented, “All our work, for nothing. There’s no one who can help us. We’ll all go hungry this year.”
Oral Comprehension – Page 6
Q1. Who or what did Lencho have faith in? What did he do? Ans: Lencho had strong faith in God. He believed that God could see everything, including what was in his heart. After a hailstorm destroyed his crops, he wrote a letter to God asking for one hundred pesos to replant his field.
When the postmaster read Lencho’s letter, he felt compelled to help. He:
Gathered money from his employees and contributed part of his own salary.
Managed to collect just over half of the requested amount.
Sent the money to Lencho in an envelope, signing it simply as “God”.
Lencho later expressed disappointment when he received only seventy pesos and accused the post office employees of stealing the rest.
Q2. Who read the letter? Ans: The Postmaster read the letter because the address on the letter was too absurd.
Q3. What did the postmaster do then? Ans:
Upon seeing the address, the postmaster initially laughed at what he thought was a foolish request. However, he soon realised it might be serious and read the letter with curiosity. Moved by the writer’s emotions, he decided to help.
He contributed part of his salary.
He collected money from friends, acquaintances, and relatives.
Ultimately, he sent the money to the letter’s writer.
Oral Comprehension – Page 7
Q1. Was Lencho surprised to find a letter for him with money in it? Ans: No, Lencho was not at all surprised to see the letter from God with money inside it. His confidence and faith in God were such that he had expected that reply from God.
Q2. What made him angry? Ans:
Lencho became angry after counting the money he received. He had requested one hundred pesos, but only seventy pesos arrived. Lencho was certain that God would not make a mistake or deny him what he asked for. This led him to believe that the post office employees must have taken the missing thirty pesos.
In response to his frustration, Lencho wrote a letter to God, expressing his disappointment:
He stated that he only received seventy pesos.
He requested the remaining amount, as he needed it urgently.
He accused the post office employees of being crooks.
Thinking about the Text
Q1. Who does Lencho have complete faith in? Which sentences in the story tell you this? Ans: Lencho had complete faith in God. The sentences in the story that show this are as follows: (a) But in the hearts of all who lived in that solitary (single) house in the middle of the valley, there was a single hope: help from God. (b) All through the night, Lencho thought only of his one hope: the help of God, whose eyes, as he had been instructed, see everything, even what is deep in one’s conscience (Inner sense of right or wrong). (c) “God,” he wrote, “if you don’t help me, my family and I will go hungry this year.” (d) He wrote ‘To God’ on the envelope, put the letter inside and, still troubled, went to town. (e) God could not have made a mistake, nor could he have denied Lencho what he had requested. (f) It said: “God: of the money that I asked for, only seventy pesos reached me. Send me the rest, since I need it very much.”
Q2. Why does the postmaster send money to Lencho? Why does he sign the letter ‘God’? Ans: The Postmaster was deeply touched by Lencho’s unwavering faith in God. He decided to send money to Lencho for the following reasons:
He wanted to support Lencho’s strong belief.
He aimed to preserve Lencho’s faith in God.
He signed the letter as ‘God’ to create the impression that it was a divine response.
This act was a thoughtful way to reinforce Lencho’s faith while helping him in his time of need.
Q3. Did Lencho try to find out who had sent the money to him? Why/Why not? Ans: No, Lencho did not try to find out who had sent the money to him. This is because he had great confidence in God and never suspected that it could be someone else other than God who would send him the money. His faith in God was so strong that he believed that God had sent him the money.
Q4. Who does Lencho think has taken the rest of the money? What is the irony in the situation? [Remember that the irony of a situation is an unexpected aspect of it. An ironic situation is strange or amusing because it is the opposite of what is expected.] Ans: Lencho believes that the post office employees have taken the rest of the money he requested. Ironically, it is these very employees who actually sent him the money.
The situation is ironic because:
Lencho suspects those who helped him during his crisis.
He does this to maintain his faith in God, despite receiving assistance.
His mistrust of the post office employees contradicts the help they provided.
Q5. Are there people like Lencho in the real world? What kind of a person would you say he is? You may select appropriate words from the box to answer the question. Ans: I don’t think there can be any such people in the real world. Lencho was literate and yet he didn’t know how his letter would reach God without any address. He was a naive and stupid farmer with blind faith in God and his powers.
Q6. There are two kinds of conflict in the story: between humans and nature, and between humans themselves. How are these conflicts illustrated? Ans:
The conflict between humans and nature is shown by the destruction of Lencho’s crops by the hailstorm (thunderstorm that produces hail). As the crops failed because of hail, Lencho started feeling sad and gloomy after the storm appropriately projected (predicted) the conflict (clash) between nature and man.
The story also shows another conflict among humans. The postmaster, along with the help of the other post office employees, sent Lencho the money that they could manage to collect. They were not related to Lencho in any manner. It was an act of kindness and selflessness on their part.
Although they did a good deed, Lencho blamed them for taking some of the money. This shows that man does not have faith in his fellow humans, thereby giving rise to this conflict.
Thinking about the Language
Q1. There are different names in different parts of the world for storms, depending on their nature. Can you match the names in the box with their descriptions below, and fill in the blanks? You may use a dictionary to help you.
(a) A violent tropical storm in which strong winds move in a circle: ____ c _____ (b) An extremely strong wind: _____ a _____ (c) A violent tropical storm with very strong winds: _____ p _____ (d) A violent storm whose centre is a cloud in the shape of a funnel: _____ n _____ (e) A violent storm with very strong winds, especially in the western Atlantic ocean: _____ r _____ (f) A very strong wind that moves very fast in a spinning movement and causes a lot of damage: _____ l _____ Ans: (a) Cyclone
(b) Gale
(c) Typhoon
(d) Tornado
(e) Hurricane
(f) Whirlwind
Q2. Match the sentences in Column A with the meanings of ‘hope’ in Column B.
Ans:
Q3. Join the sentences given below using who, whom, whose, which as suggested. (a) I often go to Mumbai. Mumbai is the commercial capital of India. (which) (b) My mother is going to host a TV show on cooking. She cooks very well. (who) (c) These sportspersons are going to meet the President. Their performance has been excellent. (whose) (d) Lencho prayed to God. His eyes see into our minds. (whose) (e) This man cheated me. I trusted him. (whom) Ans:
(a) I often go to Mumbai, which is the commercial capital of India. (b) My mother, who cooks very well, is going to host a TV show on cooking. (c) These sportspersons, whose performance has been excellent, are going to meet the President. (d) Lencho prayed to God, whose eyes see into our minds. (e) This man, whom I trusted, cheated me.
Q4. Find sentences in the story with negative words, which express the following ideas emphatically. (a) The trees lost all their leaves. _________________________________________ (b) The letter was addressed to God himself. _________________________________________ (c) The postman saw this address for the first time in his career. _________________________________________ Ans:
(a) The trees lost all their leaves. Not a leaf remained on the trees. (b) The letter was addressed to God himself. It was nothing less than a letter to God. (c) The postman saw this address for the first time in his career. Never in his career as a postman had he seen that address.
Q5.In pairs, find metaphors from the story to complete the table below. Try to say what qualities are being compared. One has been done for you.
Ans:
Although they did a good deed, Lencho blamed them for taking some of the money.
Q1. What are the various ways by which people may be exploited in the market?
Ans. People may be exploited in the market through several unfair practices. These include:
Selling defective goods: For example, a consumer might purchase a product that does not work as advertised or breaks down soon after purchase.
Adulteration: Sellers might mix inferior substances with products like food items, reducing their quality and posing health risks.
Overcharging: Some sellers may charge more than the maximum retail price (MRP) or add hidden charges.
Misleading advertisements: Advertisements might provide false or exaggerated claims about a product’s benefits, leading consumers to make uninformed decisions.
Weight manipulation: Shopkeepers may use faulty weighing scales to give less quantity than what the consumer pays for.
Q2. Think of one example from your experience where you thought that there was some ‘cheating’ in the market. Discuss in the classroom.
Ans. Once, I bought a packaged juice that was advertised as “100% pure” on the front label. However, when I read the fine print on the back, I found it contained only 30% real juice and the rest was water, sugar, and preservatives. This felt like cheating because the prominent advertisement was misleading and did not reflect the true nature of the product. Discussing such examples in the classroom can help raise awareness and encourage critical evaluation of marketing claims.
Q3. What do you think should be the role of government to protect consumers?
Ans. The government should play a proactive role in protecting consumers through the following measures:
Regulation and Monitoring: Implement and enforce stringent regulations to ensure product quality and safety.
Consumer Education: Run awareness campaigns to educate consumers about their rights and how to make informed choices.
Redressal Mechanisms: Establish accessible and efficient consumer redressal forums where consumers can lodge complaints and seek justice.
Standardization: Ensure that products adhere to standards set by certification bodies like ISI, Agmark, and Hallmark.
Penalties for Violations: Impose heavy penalties on businesses that engage in unfair trade practices to deter such behavior.
Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of businesses to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
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Q1. What could have been the steps taken by consumer groups?
Ans. Consumer groups could:
Educate consumers about their rights.
Provide legal support to those filing complaints.
Lobby for stronger consumer protection laws.
Monitor and report market violations.
Represent consumers in disputes.
Collaborate with government agencies for better enforcement.
Q2. There may be rules and regulations but they are often not followed. Why? Discuss.
Ans. Rules are often not followed due to:
Lack of awareness among consumers and businesses.
Weak enforcement by regulatory bodies.
Corruption within regulatory agencies.
Judicial delays deterring consumers from seeking redressal.
Economic pressures on small businesses to cut costs.
Consumer apathy and fear of retaliation.
Complexity of regulations making compliance difficult.
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Q1. For the following products/services discuss what safety rules should be observed by the producer?
(a) LPG cylinder Ans.
Ensure cylinders meet safety standards.
Regularly inspect for leaks and damage.
Provide clear usage instructions and emergency procedures.
(b) Cinema theatre Ans.
Ensure proper fire safety measures and exits.
Maintain structural safety of the building.
Regularly check and service electrical systems.
(c) Circus Ans.
Ensure animal safety and humane treatment.
Regularly inspect equipment for performers.
Maintain audience safety barriers and exits.
(d) Medicines Ans.
Follow stringent manufacturing and storage standards.
Clearly label expiration dates and usage instructions.
Conduct thorough testing and quality checks.
(e) Edible oil Ans.
Ensure purity and absence of harmful additives.
Clearly label manufacturing and expiration dates.
Maintain hygienic production and packaging facilities.
(f) Marriage pandal Ans.
Ensure structural safety and stability.
Provide proper electrical installations.
Implement fire safety measures and exits.
(g) A high-rise building Ans.
Follow building codes and structural safety standards.
Install and maintain fire safety systems.
Regularly inspect elevators and other mechanical systems.
Q2. Find out any case of accident or negligence from people around you, where you think that the responsibility lay with the producer. Discuss
Ans. In a recent incident, a neighbor’s washing machine caused a fire due to a manufacturing defect. The machine’s motor overheated, igniting the surrounding plastic. The manufacturer had not issued a recall or warning despite knowing about the defect. This negligence led to significant damage to the neighbor’s property. The responsibility clearly lay with the producer for not addressing the defect and failing to inform consumers about the potential hazard.
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Q1. When we buy commodities we find that the price charged is sometimes higher or lower than the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) printed on the pack. Discuss the possible reasons. Should consumer groups do something about this?
Ans. The price charged may vary due to reasons like local taxes, transportation costs, or sellers trying to make extra profit. Sometimes, sellers offer discounts to attract customers, leading to prices lower than the MRP. Consumer groups should ensure prices do not exceed MRP by raising awareness and reporting violations to authorities to protect consumer rights.
Q2. Pick up a few packaged goods that you want to buy and examine the information given. In what ways are they useful? Is there some information that you think should be given on those packaged goods but is not? Discuss.
Ans. Information like manufacturing and expiry dates, ingredients, nutritional facts, and instructions for use are useful for making informed choices and ensuring safety. However, additional information like potential allergens, environmental impact, and clear origin of ingredients could enhance transparency and consumer trust.
Q3. People make complaints about the lack of civic amenities such as bad roads or poor water and health facilities but no one listens. Now the RTI Act gives you the power to question. Do you agree? Discuss.
Ans. Yes, the RTI (Right to Information) Act empowers citizens to request information from public authorities, making the government accountable. It allows people to demand details about the status of civic amenities, expenditure, and responsible officials. This transparency can drive improvements in public services when used effectively by informed citizens.
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The following are some of the catchy advertisements of products that we purchase from the market. Which of the following offers would really benefit consumers? Discuss.
Ans.
15 gm more in every 500 gm pack:
Benefit: Consumers get additional product for the same price, effectively reducing the per unit cost. This is a straightforward benefit with no strings attached.
Subscribe for a newspaper with a gift at the end of a year:
Benefit: If the consumer regularly buys the newspaper, the subscription can offer cost savings and the added gift is a bonus.
Scratch and win gifts worth Rs 10 lakhs:
Benefit: This is more of a gamble. While it can be exciting, the actual benefit depends on the odds of winning, which are usually very low. This might not provide real value to most consumers.
A milk chocolate inside a 500 gram glucose box:
Benefit: This offer is beneficial if the consumer uses both products. However, it could be seen as an unnecessary addition if the consumer is not interested in the chocolate.
Win a gold coin inside a pack:
Benefit: Similar to the scratch and win offer, the odds of actually winning the gold coin are typically very low. This is more of a marketing gimmick and may not provide real benefit to most consumers.
Buy shoes worth Rs 2000 and get one pair of shoes worth Rs 500 free:
Benefit: This is a clear and immediate benefit. If the consumer needs or wants two pairs of shoes, this offer provides additional value without any gamble involved.
Conclusion: The offers that provide immediate and guaranteed benefits, like “15 gm more in every 500 gm pack” and “Buy shoes worth Rs 2000 and get one pair of shoes worth Rs 500 free,” are more likely to be genuinely beneficial for consumers. Other offers, such as those involving winning prizes, are less reliable and typically benefit the marketers more than the consumers.
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Q1: Arrange the following in the correct order. Ans. The correct order of events is:
(g) She purchases a wall clock from a retail outlet.
(c) She realises that the dealer has given her defective material.
(e) She goes and complains to the dealer and the Branch office, to no effect.
(b) She engages a professional person.
(a) Arita files a case in the District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
(d) She starts attending the commission proceedings.
(f) She is asked to produce the bill and warranty before the commission.
(h) Within a few months, the dealer was ordered by the commission to replace her old wall clock with a brand new one at no extra cost.
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Q1. Why are rules and regulations required in the marketplace? Illustrate with a few examples. Ans. Rules and regulations are required in the marketplace to protect consumers. Sellers often abdicate responsibility for a low-quality product, cheat in weighing out goods, add extra charges over the retail price, and sell adulterated or defective goods. Hence, rules and regulations are needed to protect the scattered buyers from powerful and fewer producers who monopolize markets. For example, a grocery shop owner might sell expired products, and then blame the customer for not checking the date of expiry before buying the items.
Q2. What factors gave birth to the consumer movement in India? Trace its evolution. Ans. There are many factors that led to the consumer movement in India. • It began as a ‘social force’ with the need to protect and promote consumer interests against unfair and unethical trade practices. • Extreme food shortages, hoarding, black marketing and adulteration of food led to the consumer movement becoming an organised arena in the 1960s. • Till the 1970s, consumer organisations were mostly busy writing articles and holding exhibitions. • More recently there has been an upsurge in the number of consumer groups who have shown concern towards ration shop malpractices and overcrowding of public transport vehicles. • In 1986, the Indian government enacted the Consumer Protection Act, also known as COIPRA. This was a major step in the consumer movement in India.
Q3. Explain the need for consumer consciousness by giving two examples. Ans. Consumer Consciousness is being aware of your right as a consumer while buying any goods or services. Example: • It is common to see consumers bargaining with sellers for additional discounts below the MRP. • Because of conscious consumers, most of the sweet shops do not include the weight of the container when they weigh sweets.
Q4. Mention a few factors which cause exploitation of consumers. Ans. Exploitation of consumers is caused by a variety of factors. Producers are always looking for easy ways to increase profits. Adulterated or low-quality goods have less production costs, and if the consumer is unaware or illiterate, it is easy to cheat him/her. Also, shopkeepers brush off their responsibility by claiming that the manufacturer is to blame. Consumers feel helpless in this situation.
Exploitation of Consumer
Often, when the consumers are known not to check the retail price of a commodity on its packing, sellers add extra charges to the same. In places where there is no awareness of consumer rights and the COPRA, consumer exploitation is rampant.
Q5. What is the rationale behind the enactment of Consumer Protection Act 1986? Ans. The rationale behind the enactment of Consumer Protection Act of 1986 is to protect the consumer against unethical and unfair trade practices.
Consumer Protection
Also, it recognizes the consumer’s right to be informed, right to choose, right to seek redressal and right to represent himself/herself in Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission.
Q6. Describe some of your duties as consumers if you visit a shopping complex in your locality. Ans. Some of my duties as a consumer if I visit a shopping complex include checking expiry date of the products I wish to purchase, paying only the maximum retail price printed on the goods, preventing shopkeepers from duping me with defective products, and registering a complaint with a consumer forum or court in case a seller refuses to take responsibility for an adulterated or flawed product.
Q7. Suppose you buy a bottle of honey and a biscuit packet. Which logo or mark you will have to look for and why? Ans. While buying a bottle of honey or a biscuit packet, the logo or mark one will have to look for is ISI or Agmark. These are logos certifying the quality of goods in the market. Only those producers are allowed to use these marks who follow certain quality standards set by the organisations issuing these certifications. Thus, if a bottle of honey or a biscuit packet has one of these logos on it, then it implies that the product is of good quality.
Q8. What legal measures were taken by the government to empower the consumers in India? Ans. Legal measures taken by the government to empower consumers in India are plenty. First and foremost being the COPRA in 1986. Then, in October 2005, the Right to Information Act was passed, ensuring citizens all information about the functioning of government departments.
Rights of Consumer as per COPRA in 1986
Also, under COPRA, a consumer can appeal in state and national courts, even if his case has been dismissed at the district level. Thus, consumers even have the right to represent themselves in Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission now.
Q9. Mention some of the rights of consumers and write a few sentences on each. Ans. Some of the rights of consumers include the right to be informed, the right to choose, the right to seek redressal and the right to representation in Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions . Under the RTI Act of 2005, consumers can now even get information regarding the working of government departments.
Consumer Rights
The right to choose allows a consumer to choose if he wishes to continue or discontinue the use of a service he purchased. The right to seek redressal permits a consumer to complain against unfair trade practices and exploitation.
Q10. By what means can the consumers express their solidarity? Ans. Consumers can express their solidarity by forming consumer groups that write articles or hold exhibitions against traders’ exploitation. These groups guide individuals on how to approach a Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission , and they even fight cases for consumers. Such groups receive financial aid from the government to create public awareness. Participation of one and all will further strengthen consumer solidarity.
Q11. Critically examine the progress of consumer movement in India. Ans. The consumer movement in India has evolved vastly since it began. There has been a significant change in consumer awareness in the country. Till the enactment of COPRA in 1986, the consumer movement did not bear much force, but ever since its inception, the movement has been empowered substantially. The setting up of Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission and consumer groups has been a progressive move. However, in contemporary India, the consumer redressal process is quite complicated, expensive and time-consuming. Filing cases, attending court proceedings, hiring lawyers, and other procedures make it cumbersome. In India, there are over 700 consumer groups of which, unfortunately, only about 20-25 are well-organised and functioning smoothly.
Q1: Complete the following statement to show how the production process in the garment industry is spread across countries: The brand tag says ‘Made in Thailand’ but they are not Thai products. We dissect the manufacturing process and look for the best solution at each step. We are doing it globally. In making garments, the company may, for example, get cotton fibre from Korea, ……..
Ans: The tag says ‘Made in Thailand,’ but the products are made from parts and services sourced worldwide. For example, cotton might come from Korea, dyeing from India, design from Italy, sewing from Bangladesh, and final assembly in Thailand. This global approach helps the company save costs and use the best skills from each country, creating high-quality, affordable garments by combining different inputs from around the world. dability.Cotton fiber
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Q1: Would you say Ford Motors is a MNC? Why? Ans: Yes, Ford Motors is a multinational corporation (MNC) because it operates in 26 countries worldwide, including India. It engages in significant international trade and investment, indicating its multinational presence.
Q2: What is foreign investment? How much did Ford Motors invest in India? Ans: Foreign investment refers to investments made by companies or individuals from one country in businesses or assets located in another country. Ford Motors invested Rs. 1700 crore in India to establish a large production plant near Chennai in collaboration with Mahindra and Mahindra.
Q3: By setting up their production plants in India, MNCs such as Ford Motors tap the advantage not only of the large markets that countries such as India provide, but also the lower costs of production. Explain the statement. Ans: Setting up production plants in countries like India allows MNCs to access large domestic markets with growing consumer demand. Moreover, these countries often offer lower production costs due to factors such as lower labor costs, favorable government policies, and availability of raw materials. This combination of market access and cost advantages helps MNCs like Ford Motors enhance their global competitiveness and profitability.
Q4: Why do you think the company wants to develop India as a base for manufacturing car components for its global operations? Discuss the following factors: (a) cost of labour and other resources in India (b) the presence of several local manufacturers who supply auto parts to Ford Motors (c) closeness to a large number of buyers in India and China Ans:(a) India offers relatively lower labor costs compared to developed countries, which reduces overall production costs for Ford Motors. (b) India has a well-established network of suppliers for auto parts, ensuring a stable and efficient supply chain for Ford Motors’ manufacturing operations. (c) Establishing manufacturing in India allows Ford Motors to be closer to two of the world’s largest automotive markets, facilitating faster delivery and response times to market demands.
Q5: In what ways will the production of cars by Ford Motors in India lead to interlinking of production? Ans: The production of cars by Ford Motors in India will lead to interlinking of production by creating demand for local suppliers to provide various components and materials, integrating with Ford Motors’ global supply chain, and fostering technology transfer and knowledge exchange between its global operations and Indian facilities.
Q6: In what ways is an MNC different from other companies? Ans: A multinational corporation (MNC) operates in multiple countries and manages production or service facilities outside its home country. It engages in significant international trade, investment, and has a global presence compared to domestic companies that operate within a single country or region.
Q7: Nearly all major multinationals are American, Japanese or European, such as Nike, Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Honda, Nokia. Can you guess why? Ans: Big companies from the United States, Japan, and Europe have an advantage because they have a long history of being large and globally ambitious. They also have access to advanced technology, strong research capabilities, skilled workers, supportive government policies, and established international networks that help them expand and operate around the world. Multinational Company
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Q1: What was the main channel connecting countries in the past? How is it different now? Ans: In the past, the main channel connecting countries for trade was primarily through maritime routes and overland trade routes such as the Silk Road. These routes facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas between different civilizations.
Today, the main channels connecting countries include not only maritime and overland routes but also air transport, digital communication networks, and sophisticated logistics systems. Globalization and advancements in technology have significantly increased the speed, volume, and complexity of international trade and communication compared to historical methods.
Q2: Distinguish between foreign trade and foreign investment. Ans:
Foreign trade refers to the exchange of goods and services across international borders. It involves importing and exporting products between countries to meet consumer demands or access resources not locally available.
Foreign investment involves investments made by individuals, businesses, or governments from one country into assets or businesses located in another country. This can include investments in physical assets (like factories or real estate), financial assets (like stocks or bonds), or the establishment of new businesses or subsidiaries abroad.
Q3: In recent years China has been importing steel from India. Explain how the import of steel by China will affect: (a) steel companies in China. (b) steel companies in India. (c) industries buying steel for production of other industrial goods in China.
Ans:(a) Steel companies in China may face reduced domestic demand or competition from cheaper imports, potentially leading to lower prices and profit margins. They may need to adjust their production levels or focus on higher value-added products to remain competitive.
(b)Steel companies in India will benefit from increased export opportunities, leading to higher production levels and potentially better economies of scale. This could improve profitability and investment in modernizing production facilities.
(c) Industries in China that buy steel for producing other industrial goods may benefit from lower input costs if imported steel from India is cheaper or of better quality. This can enhance their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.
Q4: How will the import of steel from India into the Chinese markets lead to integration of markets for steel in the two countries? Explain. Ans: The import of steel from India into China will lead to integration of steel markets in both countries in several ways:
It will create a direct link between Indian steel producers and Chinese consumers, fostering ongoing trade relationships and market interactions.
Indian steel exporters will need to meet Chinese quality standards and market demands, leading to mutual adaptation and cooperation between industries in both countries.
This integration can lead to price harmonization and information exchange between steel markets in India and China, enhancing market efficiency and transparency.
Over time, it may encourage joint ventures, partnerships, or even investments by Indian companies in China’s steel sector, further solidifying the interdependence of the two markets.SteelPage – 62
Q1: What is the role of MNCs in the globalization process? Ans: Multinational corporations (MNCs) play a significant role in globalization by:
Facilitating the movement of goods, services, technology, and capital across borders.
Creating employment opportunities and transferring skills and knowledge to local economies.
Introducing advanced technologies and management practices that enhance productivity.
Connecting markets globally, thereby increasing trade and economic interdependence among countries.
Q2: What are the various ways in which countries can be linked? Ans: Countries can be linked through various means including:
Trade linkages: Exchanging goods and services through imports and exports.
Financial linkages: Investments, loans, and financial flows between countries.
Technological linkages: Sharing and adopting technologies, research, and development.
Cultural linkages: Exchanging cultural practices, values, and ideas.
Political linkages: Diplomatic relations, treaties, and international organizations.
Q3: Choose the correct option. Globalization, by connecting countries, shall result in (a) lesser competition among producers. (b) greater competition among producers. (c) no change in competition among producers. Ans: (b) greater competition among producers.
Globalization connects countries and markets, leading to increased competition among producers as they face competition not only from domestic firms but also from international ones.
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Q1: What do you understand by liberalisation of foreign trade? Ans: Liberalization of foreign trade means reducing or eliminating barriers like tariffs and quotas to promote free exchange of goods and services between countries, aiming to boost economic growth and efficiency.
Q2: Tax on imports is one type of trade barrier. The government could also place a limit on the number of goods that can be imported. This is known as quotas. Can you explain, using the example of Chinese toys, how quotas can be used as trade barriers? Do you think this should be used? Discuss. Ans: Quotas restrict the quantity of imported goods, like Chinese toys, into a country. They protect domestic industries but can raise prices for consumers and reduce choice. Their use depends on balancing domestic industry protection with consumer interests and international relations.
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Q1: Fill in the blanks. WTO was started at the initiative of developed countries. The aim of the WTO is to facilitate international trade and resolve trade disputes. WTO establishes rules regarding trade tariffs, quotas, and trade-related policies for all countries, and sees that member countries follow these rules and engage in fair trade practices. In practice, trade between countries is not always fair due to varying levels of protectionism and subsidies. Developing countries like India have been pressured to liberalize their economies, whereas developed countries, in many cases, have continued to provide protection to their producers.
Q2: What do you think can be done so that trade between countries is more fair? Ans: To make trade fairer between countries, we should work on reducing trade barriers like tariffs and quotas that put some countries at a disadvantage. Also, having clear and enforceable rules through international agreements, like those from the WTO, can help promote fair competition and prevent unfair trade practices.
Q3: In the above example, we saw that the US government gives massive sums of money to farmers for production. At times, governments also give support to promote production of certain types of goods, such as those which are environmentally friendly. Discuss whether these are fair or not. Ans: Government subsidies can disrupt international trade by giving local producers an unfair edge over foreign competitors, often leading to dumping of cheap, subsidized goods in global markets, which hurts producers in other countries. While this is generally seen as unfair, subsidies that support environmentally friendly production can be justified, as they help address global goals like sustainability and climate protection. Finding the right balance between these factors is key to ensuring fairness in international trade. US Government
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Q1: How has competition benefited people in India? Ans: Competition has helped people in India by boosting innovation, improving product quality, and lowering prices. It has increased consumer choices, leading to better goods and services. Competition also pushes businesses to be more efficient, which can result in higher wages and better working conditions for workers.
Q2: Should more Indian companies emerge as MNCs? How would it benefit the people in the country? Ans: Yes, more Indian companies becoming MNCs can benefit the country in several ways. It can lead to increased employment opportunities, technology transfer, and skill development. MNCs can also contribute to the economy through foreign exchange earnings and infrastructure development. Moreover, Indian MNCs can enhance the country’s global influence and competitiveness.
Q3: Why do governments try to attract more foreign investment? Ans: Governments try to attract foreign investment to boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve infrastructure. Foreign investment brings in money, technology, and management skills that can help local industries grow and become more productive. It also strengthens trade relations with other countries and increases foreign exchange reserves.
Q4: In Chapter 1, we saw what may be development for one may be destructive for others. The setting of SEZs has been opposed by some people in India. Find out who are these people and why are they opposing it. Ans: Opposition to Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in India often comes from local communities, environmental activists, and farmers. They are concerned about land acquisition, displacement, environmental damage, and loss of farmland. Critics argue that SEZs focus on industrial and commercial interests over social and environmental needs, leading to inequalities and negative effects on marginalized groups.
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Q1: What are the ways in which Ravi’s small production unit was affected by rising competition? Ans: Ravi’s unit faced lower sales and profits due to cheaper imports, forcing him to improve quality and efficiency to stay competitive.
Q2: Should producers such as Ravi stop production because their cost of production is higher compared to producers in other countries? What do you think? Ans: No, Ravi should focus on improving efficiency and quality to compete effectively rather than stopping production.
Q3: Recent studies point out that small producers in India need three things to compete better in the market: (a) better roads, power, water, raw materials, marketing and information network (b) improvements and modernisation of technology (c) timely availability of credit at reasonable interest rates.
Ans:
(a) Can you explain how these three things would help Indian producers? Ans: These improvements would lower costs, enhance quality, and expand market reach for Indian producers, making them more competitive.
(b) Do you think MNCs will be interested in investing in these? Why? Ans: Yes, MNCs may invest in these areas to reduce costs, improve efficiencies, and access skilled labor, aligning with their expansion strategies in emerging markets like India.
(c) Do you think the government has a role in making these facilities available? Why? Ans: Yes, the government’s role is crucial in providing infrastructure, technology support, and affordable credit to create a conducive business environment and attract investments.
(d) Can you think of any other step that the government could take? Discuss. Ans: The government could focus on skills development, promote research and development, simplify regulations, and reduce bureaucratic hurdles to further support small producers and enhance their competitiveness.
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Q1: In what ways has competition affected workers, Indian exporters, and foreign MNCs in the garment industry?
Ans: Workers face job insecurity and wage pressure. Indian exporters must meet higher standards at lower costs. Foreign MNCs streamline operations for profitability.
Q2: What can be done so that workers get a fair share of globalization’s benefits?
Ans:
Government: Enforce labor laws, ensure fair wages, and safe conditions.
Employers: Pay fair wages, improve working conditions, and provide training.
MNCs: Uphold ethical labor practices, offer career growth opportunities.
Workers: Join unions, seek skill development, advocate for rights.
Q3: One of the present debates in India is whether companies should have flexible policies for employment. Based on what you have read in the chapter, summarise the point of view of the employers and workers.
Ans: Employers view flexibility as enhancing productivity and adaptability. Workers fear job insecurity and prefer stable employment with benefits.
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Q1: What do you understand by globalisation? Explain in your own words. Ans: Globalisation is the process where economies, cultures, societies, and communication become more connected and integrated worldwide. It involves the flow of goods, services, ideas, information, and people across borders, making national boundaries less important in how the world functions.
Globalisation is like when your favorite food or music from another part of the world becomes popular in your own country. It’s when people, ideas, products, and information from one place easily travel and connect with people in other places around the world.
Imagine you have a smartphone. The parts for it may come from different countries, it might be designed in one country, and then you can use apps from all over the world. That’s globalization in action.
Q2: What were the reasons for putting barriers to foreign trade and foreign investment by the Indian government? Why did it wish to remove these barriers? Ans:
(A) Foreign Trade
The government had put restrictions on the import of goods to protect domestic producers from foreign competition.
The government allowed imports of only essential items such as machinery, fertilisers and petroleum. These restrictions helped to attain technological capability within the country.
(B) Foreign Investment
Starting around 1991, the government wished to remove the barriers because India had attained technological capability.
The government decided that the time had come for Indian producers to compete with producers around the globe.
It felt that competition would improve the performance of producers within the country.
There would be an unrestricted exchange of capital, technology and experience between India and other countries of the world.
Q3: How would flexibility in labour laws help companies? Ans:
Instead of hiring workers on a regular basis, companies can hire workers, ‘flexibly’ for short periods during the period of intense work.
This will reduce the cost of labour.
The company can negotiate wages and terminate workers depending on market conditions.
Q4: What are the various ways in which MNCs set up, or control, production in other countries? Ans: The factories or production units of Multinational Companies are set up mainly close to the markets where they can get the desired skilled or unskilled labour at low cost along with other factors of production. After the company has been set up, they set production units in the following ways: Form a company jointly with some local companies of the existing country. • Buy the local companies and then expand its production with the help of modern technology. • The order is placed by them for small producers to sell these products under their own brand name to the customers worldwide.
Q5: Why do developed countries want developing countries to liberalise their trade and investment? What do you think should the developing countries demand in return? Ans: (a) The developed countries want developing countries to liberalise their trade and investment so that they may sell their products in those countries to earn profit. Generally, developed countries produce goods/products at a very low cost and sell at a very higher price. (b)
The developed countries are biased against the developing countries. They have been following wrong practices as is the case in the agriculture sector in the USA.
In view of the above facts, the developing countries should demand fair trade practices to be followed by the developed countries.
They should stop giving subsidies to their agricultural sector.
Trade barriers put unfairly should be removed.
Only then there would be a free and fair trade in the world and the interest of the developing countries would be protected.
Q6: “The impact of globalisation has not been uniform.” Explain this statement.
Ans:
(a) Positive impact:
It has resulted in more choice for the consumers to get various products of better quality and at lower prices.
It has improved the standard of living.
With the investments by the MNCs new jobs have been created in the developing countries.
New technology has been introduced.
Large companies have become multi-national companies such as Infosys.
(b) Negative impact:
The creation of special economic zones has disrupted the lives of the people who have been displaced.
Flexibility in labour laws has worsened the condition of workers who may be appointed on a temporary basis.
Small producers are unable to compete with MNCs. Thus, several units have been shut down rendering many workers jobless.
Q7: How has the liberalisation of trade and investment policies helped the globalisation process?
Ans:
Goods can now be imported and exported easily.
Companies can set up factories and offices in other countries. For example, Ford Motors, a U.S. company set up a plant in India in 1995 in Chennai.
Activities of many MNCs have increased foreign investment and foreign trade which has led to greater integration of production and markets across countries or globalisation process.
Thus, more and more countries are coming closer contacts and liberalisation of trade and investment policies have helped in the globalisation process.
Q8: How does foreign trade lead to the integration of markets across countries? Explain with an example other than those given here. Ans:
It creates an opportunity for producers to reach beyond the domestic market, i.e., markets of their own countries.
Producers can sell their products in the markets of their own country as well as in other countries of all over the world.
The buyers too have a choice between the goods produced in different parts of the world. It enables the consumer to buy according to his requirement.
The competition among the producers brings them closer to each other.
Producers in two countries closely compete against each other even though they are separated by thousands of miles.
Q9: Globalisation will continue in the future. Can you imagine what the world would be like twenty years from now? Give reasons for your answer.
Ans: After twenty years, the world would undergo a positive change and enhanced human resource efficiency which will possess the following features- healthy competition, improved production efficiency, increased volume of output, income and employment better living standards, greater availability of information and modern technology. The reasons for this view include:
With the development of human resources as well as technological advancements, the small producers will be in a better position to compete with the foreign competition.
Growing entrepreneurship worldwide, especially in developing countries, acts as an incentive for producers to collaborate and take advantage of global networks.
Growing domestic market means higher demand for domestic goods as well as imports.
Q10: Supposing you find two people arguing: One is saying globalisation has hurt our country’s development. The other is telling, globalisation is helping India develop. How would you respond to these organisations?
Ans: Following are the benefits of globalisation in India:
• There is an increase in the volume of trade in goods and services. • It has led to the rise of a quality product. • There is an inflow of private foreign capital and export orientation of the economy. • There is an increase in the volume of output, income and employment.
Though there are also some negative impacts of globalisation. They are as follows: • It might not help in achieving sustainable growth. • It might not lead to a lessening of income inequalities among various countries. • It might lead to aggravation of income inequalities within countries.
Q11: Fill in the blanks. Indian buyers have a greater choice of goods than they did two decades back. This is closely associated with the process of ______________. Markets in India are selling goods produced in many other countries. This means there is increasing ______________ with other countries. Moreover, the rising number of brands that we see in the markets might be produced by MNCs in India. MNCs are investing in India because _____________. While consumers have more choices in the market, the effect of rising _______________ and ______________has meant greater ________________among the producers. Ans: Indian buyers have a greater choice of goods than they did two decades back. This is closely associated with the process of globalisation. Markets in India are selling goods produced in many other countries. This means there is increasing trade with other countries. Moreover, the rising number of brands that we see in the markets might be produced by MNCs in India. MNCs are investing in India because of cheaper production costs. While consumers have more choices in the market, the effect of rising demand andpurchasing power has meant greater competition among the producers.
Q12: Match the following.
Ans:
Page – 73 Q13: Choose the most appropriate option. (i) The past two decades of globalisation has seen rapid movements in (a) goods, services and people between countries. (b) goods, services and investments between countries. (c) goods, investments and people between countries. Ans: (i) (b)
In the past two decades, globalization has led to increased movement of goods, services, and investments across countries. This has expanded international trade, enhanced access to various services, and allowed for greater foreign investment, driving economic growth and global interconnectedness.
(ii) The most common route for investments by MNCs in countries around the world is to (a) set up new factories. (b) buy existing local companies. (c) form partnerships with local companies. Ans: (ii) (b)
The most common route for investments by multinational corporations (MNCs) is to buy existing local companies. This approach allows MNCs to quickly gain access to established markets, resources, and local expertise.
(iii) Globalisation has led to improvement in living conditions (a) of all the people (b) of people in the developed countries (c) of workers in the developing countries (d) none of the above Ans: (iii) (d)
While globalisation has improved living standards in some developed countries through increased access to goods and economic growth, its effects in developing countries are more complex. Some individuals benefit from new opportunities, while others face job insecurity and inequality. The uneven distribution of globalization’s benefits means that its impact on living conditions is not uniformly positive for all groups or regions.
Q1: How does the use of money make it easier to exchange things? Ans: The use of money makes exchanging goods and services much easier by acting as a universally accepted medium of exchange. Here are the key benefits:
Eliminates Barter Issues: Unlike barter systems, where goods are exchanged directly, money allows transactions without needing a direct match of wants.
Simplifies Transactions: People can buy what they need without searching for someone who wants what they have to offer.
Facilitates Pricing: Money provides a clear way to set prices, making it easier to value goods and services.
Improves Accounting: It simplifies record-keeping in economic transactions.
Q2: Can you think of some examples of goods/services being exchanged or wages being paid through barter? Ans:In a barter system, goods and services are exchanged directly without using money. Here are some examples:
A farmer might exchange a portion of their crops for a craftsman’s tools.
A carpenter could build furniture in return for a baker’s bread.
Wages can also be paid in barter; for instance, a painter may receive food from a restaurant owner in exchange for painting the owner’s house.
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Q1. M. Salim wants to withdraw Rs 20,000 in cash for making payments. How would he write a cheque to withdraw money? Ans: M. Salim would write a cheque addressed to himself or “Bearer” for Rs 20,000. The cheque would specify the amount to be withdrawn and would need to be signed by Salim. Upon presenting this cheque at his bank, Salim would receive Rs 20,000 in cash.
Q2. Tick the correct answer. After the transaction between Salim and Prem,
(i) Salim’s balance in his bank account increases, and Prem’s balance increases.
(ii) Salim’s balance in his bank account decreases and Prem’s balance increases.
(iii) Salim’s balance in his bank account increases and Prem’s balance decreases. Ans. (ii) is correct.
When Salim writes a cheque to Prem, Salim’s bank account balance decreases by the amount of the cheque (Rs 20,000 in this case). Simultaneously, Prem’s balance increases by the same amount once he deposits the cheque into his own bank account. This is a basic principle of double-entry accounting where one account decreases (Salim’s) and another increases (Prem’s) by the same amount for the transaction to be balanced.
Q3. Why are demand deposits considered as money? Ans:Demand deposits are considered as money for several reasons:
They are funds held in bank accounts that can be accessed on demand.
Depositors can withdraw these funds using cheques, debit cards, or electronic transfers.
Demand deposits are highly liquid, meaning they can be quickly converted into cash.
They are widely accepted as a medium of exchange, similar to cash.
Due to these characteristics, they are included in broader definitions of the money supply.
Thus, demand deposits play a crucial role in the monetary system.
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Q1. Fill the following table:
Ans:
Q2. Supposing Salim continues to get orders from traders. What would be his position after 6 years? Ans: If Salim continues to receive orders from traders and manages his finances wisely, his business position after six years could be quite strong. Key factors include:
Consistent orders: Regular demand can lead to growth.
Expansion: He may be able to broaden his operations and product range.
Market presence: A strong reputation can enhance his competitiveness.
Risk management: Success depends on effectively handling challenges like market fluctuations and loan repayments.
Overall, prudent management and sustained orders can significantly improve Salim’s business prospects.
Q3. What are the reasons that make Swapna’s situation so risky? Discuss factors – pesticides; role of moneylenders; climate. Ans: Swapna’s situation is highly risky due to several factors:
Pesticides: Relying on pesticides carries risks such as their effectiveness, environmental harm, and high costs. If pesticides fail, it can result in crop failures, affecting her income and loan repayment ability.
Role of Moneylenders: Borrowing from moneylenders often means facing high interest rates and strict repayment terms. This adds financial stress, especially if her crop yields are low due to external factors like climate.
Climate: Variability in climate can severely impact agricultural results. Unfavourable weather, such as droughts or floods, can lead to crop failures, directly affecting Swapna’s income and her capacity to repay loans.
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Q1: Why do lenders ask for collateral while lending? Ans: Lenders ask for collateral to secure their loans against the risk of borrowers defaulting. This practice helps to:
Reduce the lender’s risk.
Allow lenders to offer loans at lower interest rates compared to unsecured loans.
Provide a form of guarantee that the lender can recover funds if the borrower fails to repay.
Common examples of collateral include property, vehicles, and bank deposits.
Q2: Given that a large number of people in our country are poor, does it in any way affect their capacity to borrow? Ans:Yes, a large number of poor people in the country can greatly affect their ability to borrow. Here are some key points:
Poverty often leads to limited access to formal financial institutions.
Many poor individuals lack a credit history, making it hard to qualify for loans.
They may not have sufficient collateral to secure loans from traditional lenders.
This situation forces them to rely on informal sources of credit, which usually have higher interest rates and less favourable terms.
Overall, these factors create significant barriers for poor individuals seeking to borrow money.
Q3: Fill in the blanks choosing the correct option from the brackets:
While taking a loan, borrowers look for easy terms of credit. This means __________ (low/high) interest rate, ______________(easy/ tough) conditions for repayment, ___________(less/more) collateral and documentation requirements.
Ans. “While taking a loan, borrowers look for easy terms of credit. This means (low) interest rate, (easy) conditions for repayment, (less) collateral and documentation requirements.”
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Q1. What are the differences between formal and informal sources of credit? Ans. Formal sources of credit, such as banks and cooperatives, are regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). They offer:
Lower interest rates
Loans to various sectors
Strict requirements for documentation
In contrast, informal sources, like moneylenders and friends, operate without regulation. They tend to:
Charge higher interest rates
Have fewer requirements
Be more accessible, but costly for borrowers
Q2. Why should credit at reasonable rates be available for all? Ans. Credit at reasonable rates enables people to borrow affordably for essential needs like farming, business, and personal expenses. This accessibility supports economic growth by enabling investments that can enhance income. Conversely, high-interest rates from informal lenders can lead to:
Excessive debt
Reduced income
Financial difficulties
Therefore, making credit available at reasonable rates is crucial for the development of individuals and the economy.
Q3. Should there be a supervisor, such as the Reserve Bank of India, that looks into the loan activities of informal lenders? Why would its task be quite difficult? Ans. Yes, a supervisor like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) should oversee informal lenders to prevent exploitation through high interest rates and unfair practices.
However, this task is challenging due to several factors:
Informal lenders vary widely in their practices and also operate in many areas, making monitoring difficult.
Informal lenders lack regulation as they’re not bound by strict rules.
Monitoring requires significant effort and resources.
Imposing regulations may face pushback from lenders.
Q4. Why do you think that the share of formal sector credit is higher for the richer households compared to the poorer households? Ans.Richer households have greater access to formal sector credit for several reasons:
They can provide collateral, which reduces the lender’s risk.
They are viewed as lower risk by banks, making them more likely to receive loans.
They have a better understanding of banking procedures, allowing them to navigate the loan process more effectively.
In contrast, poorer households often face:
They can’t provide collateral creating higher barriers to accessing formal credit.
They might not understand bank proceedings for formal credit.
Therefore they rely on expensive informal loans due to lack of collateral and understanding.
This disparity highlights the need for improved access to formal credit for poorer households.
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Q1: In situations with high risks, credit might create further problems for the borrower. Explain. Ans: In high-risk situations, taking on credit can lead to serious problems for borrowers. This is often referred to as a debt trap. Here’s how it works:
When a borrower takes out a loan, they must pay back the principal amount plus an interest rate.
If the borrower fails to repay, they risk losing their collateral, which is an asset pledged as security for the loan.
In high-risk scenarios, adverse conditions can worsen the borrower’s situation, leading to greater losses than if they had not taken the loan.
Ultimately, the burden of debt can push borrowers into a cycle of financial distress.
Q2: How does money solve the problem of double coincidence of wants? Explain with an example of your own. Ans:
Money solves the problem of double coincidence of wants by acting as a medium of exchange. Double Coincidence
Double coincidence of wants implies a situation where two parties agree to sell and buy each other’s commodities., i.e., what one party desires to sell is exactly what the other party wishes to buy.
Money does away with this tedious and complex situation by acting as a medium of exchange that can be used for one and all commodities. Example: If an ice-cream vendor wants a bicycle, but the bicycle manufacturer wants clothes, and not ice-creams, then the vendor can use the money to obtain a bicycle.
He does need to adhere to the bicycle man’s needs because money acts as the common medium of exchange. Similarly, the bicycle manufacturer can then use the money to buy clothes.
Q3: How do banks mediate between those who have surplus money and those who need money? Ans:A bank plays a crucial role in connecting those with surplus money to those in need of funds. Here’s how:
Banks allow individuals to open accounts for deposits and withdrawals.
They keep only about 15% of cash reserves to meet daily withdrawal demands.
Depositors earn interest on their surplus funds, encouraging them to invest.
Banks use the majority of deposits to provide loans to borrowers.
The difference between the interest charged on loans and the interest paid on deposits is the bank’s main source of income.
Q4: Look at a 10 rupee note. What is written on top? Can you explain this statement? Ans:
A ten rupee note features “Reserve Bank of India” at the top, along with the statement “guaranteed by the central government.”
It is a promissory note and can only be issued by the Reserve Bank of India which supervises all money-related functions in the formal sector, in India.
The statement on the ten rupee bank note relates to this idea that the RBI is the central organ in the working of money-related activities.
Q5: Why do we need to expand formal sources of credit in India? Ans: Expanding formal sources of credit in India is essential for several reasons:
It reduces reliance on informal sources that often charge high interest rates.
The Reserve Bank of India oversees formal lending, ensuring better regulation.
Informal loans can lead to a debt trap due to exorbitant interest rates.
Currently, formal credit meets only about half of the rural population’s needs.
Increasing formal lending, especially in rural areas, can enhance overall economic development.
By expanding formal credit, we can help more people access loans at reasonable rates, promoting financial stability and growth.
Q6: What is the basic idea behind the SHGs for the poor? Explain in your own words. Ans: The basic idea behind Self Help Groups (SHGs) is to provide financial resources to the poor by organising them, particularly women, into small groups.
Self Help GroupThere are some main objectives of SHGs, which are as following:
Organise the rural poor, especially women, into small groups.
Collect savings from members.
Provide loans without the need for collateral and offer timely loans for various needs.
Charge reasonable interest rates with easy repayment terms.
Serve as a platform to discuss social issues like education, health, and domestic violence.
Q7: What are the reasons why the banks might not be willing to lend to certain borrowers? Ans: The Banks might not be willing to lend certain borrowers due to the following reasons:
Banks require proper and legal documents and collateral as security against loans.
The borrowers who have not repaid previous loans, the banks might not be willing to lend them further.
For those entrepreneurs, who are going to invest in a business with high risks, the banks might not be willing to lend money.
One of the main objectives of a bank is to earn more profits after meeting a number of expenses.
For this purpose, it has to adopt a judicious loan and investment policies that ensure fair and stable return on the funds.
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Q8: In what ways does the Reserve Bank of India supervise the functioning of banks? Why is this necessary? Ans: The Reserve Bank of India supervises the functions of banks in various ways:
RBI Functioning
RBI holds part of the cash reserve of commercial banks.
RBI mainly ensures that the banks maintain a minimum cash balance out of the deposits they receive.
The commercial banks have to submit information to RBI on how much they are lending, to whom, and at what interest rate, etc.
RBI observes that the Banks are not only providing loans to profitable businesses but also to traders and small cultivators, small-scale industries, small borrowers, etc.
Q9: Analyse the role of credit for development. Ans:
Credit plays a crucial role in a country’s development. By sanctioning loans to developing industries and trade, banks provide them with the necessary aid for improvement.
This leads to increased production, employment, and profits. However, caution must be exercised in the case of high risks so that losses do not occur.
This advantage of loans also needs to be manipulated and kept under an administrative hold because loans from the informal sector include high interest rates that may be more harmful than good.
For this reason, it is important that the formal sector gives out more loans so that borrowers are not duped by moneylenders, and can ultimately contribute to national development.
Q10: Manav needs a loan to set up a small business. On what basis will Manav decide whether to borrow from the bank or the moneylender? Discuss. Ans: Manav will decide whether to borrow from the bank or the moneylender based on several key factors:
Interest Rate: He will consider which option offers a more suitable rate.
Collateral: Availability of collateral required by the bank is crucial.
Documentation: The amount of paperwork needed by the bank can influence his choice.
Repayment Terms: The mode and ease of repayment are significant factors.
Ultimately, these factors will help Manav choose the most beneficial option for his business needs.
Q11: In India, about 80 percent of farmers are small farmers, who need credit for cultivation. (a) Why might banks be unwilling to lend to small farmers? (b) What are the other sources from which the small farmers can borrow? (c) Explain with an example how the terms of credit can be unfavorable for the small farmer. (d) Suggest some ways by which small farmers can get cheap credit. Ans:(a) Banks often hesitate to lend to small farmers due to the following reasons:
They require proper documentation and collateral as security for loans.
But there is the situation where small farmers frequently lack the necessary documents and assets to secure loans.
Many small farmers struggle to repay loans on time, especially after crop failures.
(b) Apart from banks, the small farmers can borrow from local money lenders, agricultural traders, big landlords, cooperatives, SHGs, etc.
(c) For example, Gopal, a small farmer, borrowed money from a local moneylender at a high interest rate of 3% to cultivate rice. Unfortunately, a drought caused his crops to fail, forcing him to sell part of his land to repay the loan. This illustrates how unfavourable terms can severely impact small farmers.
(d) The small farmers can get cheap credit from different sources like Banks, Agricultural Cooperatives, and SHGs.
Q12: Fill in the blanks (i) Majority of the credit needs of the __________households are met from informal sources. (ii) __________costs of borrowing increase the debt-burden. (iii) __________issues currency notes on behalf of the Central Government.
(iv) Banks charge a higher interest rate on loans than what they offer on __________. (v) __________is an asset that the borrower owns and uses as a guarantee until the loan is repaid to the lender. Ans: (i) Majority of the credit needs of the poor households are met from informal sources. (ii)Highcosts of borrowing increase the debt-burden. (iii)Reserve Bank of Indiaissues currency notes on behalf of the Central Government. (iv) Banks charge a higher interest rate on loans than what they offer ondeposits. (v)Collateralis an asset that the borrower owns and uses as a guarantee until the loan is repaid to the lender.
Q13: Choose the most appropriate answer. (i) In a SHG, most of the decisions regarding savings and loan activities are taken by: (a) Bank (b) Members (c) Non-government organisation Ans: (i) (b)
In a Self-Help Group (SHG), most decisions about savings and loans are made by the members of the group. They collectively manage the group’s finances and decide on savings, loans, and other activities.
(ii) Formal sources of credit do not include (a) Banks (b) Cooperatives (c) Employers Ans (ii): (c)
Formal sources of credit typically include banks and cooperatives, while employers are not considered a formal source of credit.
Q1. What does the history of developed countries indicate about the shifts that have taken place between sectors? Ans. The history of developed countries shows that economies typically shift from the primary sector (agriculture) to the secondary sector (manufacturing) and eventually to the tertiary sector (services). Initially, agriculture dominates, then as farming efficiency improves, workers move to industry, and later, as income rises, the service sector becomes the largest in both production and employment.
Q2. Correct and arrange the important aspects for calculating GDP from this Jumble. To count goods and services we add the numbers that are produced. We count all those that were produced in the last five years. Since we shouldn’t leave out anything we add up all these goods and services. Ans.
To calculate GDP, we count only the final goods and services produced within a country in a given year.
We do not add intermediate goods to avoid double counting.
We don’t simply count the quantity of items produced (like the number of cars or computers). Instead, we use the monetary value of these goods and services.
Q3. Discuss with your teacher how you could calculate the total value of a good or service by using the method of value added at each stage. Ans. To calculate the total value of a good or service using the value-added method, you add up the value added at each step of production:
Identify Steps: Break down the production into stages (like raw materials, processing, final product).
Find Value Added: Subtract the cost of inputs from the value of output at each stage.
Add Up Values: Sum the values added at all stages to get the total value of the final product.
For example, if wheat is made into flour and then into bread, add the value added by the miller and the baker to get the total value of the bread.
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Q1. Complete the table using the data given in Graphs 2 and 3 and answer the question that follows. Ignore if data are not available for some years.
What are the changes that you observe in the primary sector over a span of forty years?
Ans.
The share of the primary sector in GDP has gone down from 40% in 1973-74 to 10-15% in 2013-14. At the same time, the share of the primary sector in employment has gone down from 71% to 44%. This is because the share of secondary and tertiary sectors has gone up.
Q2. Choose the correct answer: Underemployment occurs when people (i) do not want to work (ii) are working in a lazy manner (iii) are working less than what they are capable of doing (iv) are not paid for their work Ans. (iii) are working less than what they are capable of doing
Underemployment occurs when people are employed in jobs that do not fully utilize their skills, education, or capacity, resulting in them working less than what they are capable of doing.
Q3. Compare and contrast the changes in India with the pattern that was observed for developed countries. What kind of changes between sectors were desired but did not happen in India? Ans.
Economic transitions in developed countries moved from primary (agriculture) to secondary (manufacturing) and eventually to tertiary (services) sectors.
In India, while the tertiary sector has grown in GDP contribution, employment has not shifted similarly.
A large part of the workforce remains in the primary sector, mainly agriculture, which produces much less GDP.
The expected shift towards more jobs in the secondary and tertiary sectors hasn’t happened.
This has resulted in widespread underemployment, where people work in agriculture but not to their full potential.
This situation highlights the need for more job opportunities in other sectors.
Q4. Why should we be worried about underemployment? Ans.
Underemployment means that many people, especially in agriculture, are working less than their potential.
This hidden or disguised unemployment indicates that more people are involved in farming than necessary.
Even if some people leave for other work, the agricultural production would not decrease.
The problem is that despite growth in the secondary and tertiary sectors, they have not created enough jobs.
This lack of job creation leaves a large number of people stuck in low-income and low-productivity jobs.
This situation hampers economic growth and keeps many families’ incomes low.
It is crucial to create better employment opportunities outside agriculture.
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Q1. Why do you think MGNREGA 2005 is referred to as ‘ Right to work’ ? Ans.MGNREGA 2005 is called the ‘Right to Work’ because it guarantees 100 days of employment per year to adults in rural areas who want to work. If the government fails to provide this work, it must pay unemployment allowances, ensuring that people have a legal right to work and financial support if jobs are not available.
Q2. Imagine that you are the village head. In that capacity suggest some activities that you think should be taken up under this Act that would also increase the income of people? Discuss. Ans. As the village head, I suggest activities under MGNREGA 2005 that boost agriculture and income:
Water Conservation: Build ponds, canals, and check dams to improve irrigation.
Land Development: Leveling and soil conservation to make more land farmable.
Roads: Improve rural roads for better access to markets.
Afforestation: Plant fruit trees to provide extra income.
Livestock Shelters: Build shelters and fish ponds to support animal husbandry and fishing.
Q3. How would income and employment increase if farmers were provided with irrigation and marketing facilities? Ans. Providing irrigation and marketing facilities boosts income and employment by:
Increasing Crop Yields: Reliable water sources lead to higher production.
Expanding Crop Variety: Farmers can grow diverse crops, improving profits.
Reducing Crop Failures: Consistent irrigation decreases the risk of poor harvests.
Improving Market Access: Better facilities reduce costs and spoilage, leading to higher earnings.
Creating Jobs: Building and managing these facilities generates employment opportunities.
Q4. In what ways can employment be increased in urban areas? Ans. Employment in urban areas can be increased through:
Promoting Service Industries: Expanding sectors like hospitality, healthcare, and IT creates jobs.
Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Encouraging local businesses and startups fosters job creation.
Investing in Infrastructure Projects: Developing transport, utilities, and public facilities generates employment.
Boosting Retail and Tourism: Enhancing shopping districts and tourist attractions increases demand for services.
Providing Training and Education: Skill development programs align workers with industry needs.
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Q1. Look at the following examples. Which of these are unorganised sector activities? (i) A teacher taking classes in a school (ii) A headload worker carrying a bag of cement on his back in a market (iii) A farmer irrigating her field (iv) A doctor in a hospital treating a patient (v) A daily wage labourer working under a contractor (vi) A factory worker going to work in a big factory (vii) A handloom weaver working in her house
Ans. (i), (iii), (v) and (vii) are examples of activities in the unorganised sector.
Q2. Talk to someone who has a regular job in the organised sector and another who works in the unorganised sector. Compare and contrast their working conditions in all aspects. Ans.
Organised Sector:
Job Security: Generally secure with formal contracts.
Wages: Regular, fixed payments.
Benefits: Includes health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.
Working Hours: Regulated with set hours.
Work Environment: Safe and regulated.
Legal Protections: Strong labor laws and grievance mechanisms.
Unorganised Sector:
Job Security: Often insecure with temporary work.
Wages: Irregular and sometimes daily.
Benefits: Typically no benefits.
Working Hours: Unpredictable and often long.
Work Environment: Less regulated and possibly unsafe.
Legal Protections: Limited legal protections.
Q3. How would you distinguish between organised and unorganised sectors? Explain in your own words Ans.
The organised sector includes businesses with formal structures and clear regulations. Workers in this sector typically receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. They have written contracts and receive regular wages, and the sector follows labor laws.
The unorganised sector consists of informal businesses where there are no formal contracts. Workers lack job security and often have unstable wages. They do not receive benefits, and examples include small shops, casual laborers, and freelancers.
Q4. The table below shows the estimated number of workers in India in the organised and unorganised sectors. Read the table carefully. Fill in the missing data and answer the questions that follow.
(a) What is the percentage of people in the unorganised sector in agriculture? (b) Do you agree that agriculture is an unorganised sector activity? Why? (c) If we look at the country as a whole, we find that ———% of the workers in India are in the unorganised sector. Organised sector employment is available to only about ———% of the workers in India. Ans.
(a) The percentage of people in the unorganised sector is 82.74%. (b) Yes, agriculture is largely an unorganised sector activity because:
No Formal Contracts or job security for workers.
Irregular Income due to seasonal and crop-dependent earnings.
No Fixed Hours; work depends on crop needs.
Lack of Benefits like health insurance or pensions.
Low Regulation with minimal labor law enforcement.
(c) If we look at the country as a whole, we find that 82.74% of the workers in India are in the unorganised sector. Organised sector employment is available to only about 17.26% of the workers in India.
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Q1. Fill in the blanks using the correct option given in the bracket (a) Employment in the service sector _________ increased to the same extent as production. (has / has not) (b) Workers in the _________ sector do not produce goods. (tertiary / agricultural) (c) Most of the workers in the _________ sector enjoy job security. (organised / unorganised) (d) A _________ proportion of labourers in India are working in the unorganised sector. (large / small) (e) Cotton is a _________ product and cloth is a _________ product. (natural / manufactured) (f) The activities in primary, secondary and tertiary sectors are _________. (independent / interdependent) Ans: (a) Employment in the service sector has not increased to the same extent as production (b) Workers in the tertiary sector do not produce goods. (c) Most of the workers in the organized sector enjoy job security. (d) A largeproportion of labourers in India are working in the unorganized sector. (e) Cotton is a naturalproduct and cloth is a manufactured product. (f) The activities in primary, secondary, and tertiary sectors are interdependent.
Q2. Choose the most appropriate answer. (a) The sectors are classified into public and private sector on the basis of (i) employment conditions. (ii) the nature of economic activity. (iii) ownership of enterprises. (iv) number of workers employed in the enterprise. Ans: (iii) ownership of enterprises
The primary distinction between the public and private sectors lies in the ownership of the enterprises. Public sector enterprises are owned and operated by the government, while private sector enterprises are owned and operated by private individuals or organizations.
(b) Production of a commodity, mostly through the natural process, is an activity in ______________ sector. (i) primary (ii) secondary (iii) tertiary (iv) information technology Ans: (i) primary
The primary sector involves the production of commodities mostly through natural processes, such as agriculture, mining, and fishing.
(c) GDP is the total value of _____________ produced during a particular year. (i) all goods and services (ii) all final goods and services (iii) all intermediate goods and services (iv) all intermediate and final goods and services Ans: (ii) all final goods and services
GDP (Gross Domestic Product) measures the total value of all final goods and services produced within a country during a particular year. It excludes intermediate goods to avoid double counting.
(d) In terms of GDP the share of tertiary sector in 2013-14 is _________ per cent. (i) 20 to 30 (ii) 30 to 40 (iii) 50 to 60 (iv) 60 to 70
Ans: (iii) 50 to 60
Q3. Match the following
Ans:
Q4. Find the odd one out and say why. (i) Tourist guide, dhobi, tailor, potter (ii) Teacher, doctor, vegetable vendor, lawyer (iii) Postman, cobbler, soldier, police constable (iv) MTNL, Indian Railways, Air India, Jet Airways, All India Radio Ans: (i)Tourist Guide He is appointed by the government, while dhobi, tailor and potter belong to the private sector. (ii)Vegetable Vendor He is the only person who works in the primary sector, while others work in the tertiary sector. (iii)Cobbler The rest are workers in the public sector or organised sector, while his profession is part of the private sector. (iv)Jet Airways It is a private enterprise, while the rest are government undertakings, owned by the Government of India.
Q5. A research scholar looked at the working people in the city of Surat and found the following.
Complete the table. What is the percentage of workers in the unorganised sector in this city? Ans:
The percentage of workers in the unorganised sector in this city is 70% (50+20).
Q6. Do you think the classification of economic activities into primary, secondary, and tertiary is useful? Explain how. Ans:
Yes, the classification of economic activities into primary, secondary and tertiary is useful on account of the information it provides on how and where the people of a country are employed.
Also, this helps in evaluating as to which sector of economic activity contributes more or less to the country’s GDP and per capita income.
Classification of Economic Sectors
It is necessary to classify economic activities into these three basic sectors for smooth economic administration and development.
Q7. For each of the sectors that we came across in this chapter, why should one focus on employment and GDP? Could there be other issues which should be examined? Discuss. Ans:
Employment and GDP are two of the most important factors in the development of a country.
They help in determining two important things—per capita income and productivity.
Hence, in each of the three sectors, employment rate and status, as well as its contribution to the GDP, help us understand how that particular sector is functioning and what needs to be done to initiate further growth in it.
Other issues that should be examined: literacy rates, poverty and nutrition as well as basic health care facilities.
Q8. Make a long list of all kinds of work that you find adults around you doing for a living. In what way can you classify them? Explain your choice. Ans: We have classified them according to the nature of the activity and according to their sector. This is a useful process as it is an easier way to layout the information.
Q9. How is the tertiary sector different from other sectors? Illustrate with a few examples. Ans:
The tertiary sector is different from the other sectors because it does not manufacture or produce anything.
For this reason, it is also known as the service sector.
It aids the primary and secondary sectors in development.
The tertiary sector involves services like transport, storage of goods, communications, banking and administrative work.
Q10. What do you understand by disguised unemployment? Explain with an example each from the urban and rural areas. Ans:
Disguised unemployment is a form of underemployment where one has a job, but the work they are doing is less than their potential.
It is not apparent as compared to someone without a job who is clearly unemployed.
In rural areas, this can be seen in the farming community where all members of a family might be working on a farm even though so many hands are not required.
They do so because of lack of another job. In urban areas, disguised unemployment can be seen in the service sector where painters, plumbers, repairpersons and those doing odd jobs have work, but they may not find daily or regular employment.
Q11. Distinguish between open unemployment and disguised unemployment. Ans:
Open unemployment is when a person has no job in hand and does not earn anything at all.
On the other hand, disguised unemployment is mostly found in the unorganised sector where either work is not consistently available or too many people are employed for some work that does not require so many hands.
Q12. “Tertiary sector is not playing any significant role in the development of Indian economy.” Do you agree? Give reasons in support of your answer. Ans: No, this statement is not true. Over the past four decades (1970-2010), the tertiary sector has become the largest producer. This growth in the service sector is due to several factors:
Demand for essential services like healthcare, education, security, and finance.
Emergence of new services like IT.
Growth of primary and secondary sectors.
Increased demand for services driven by rising per capita income.
The GDP share of the tertiary sector has grown from around 40% in 1973-74 to more than 50% in 2013-14.
Q13. Service sector in India employs two different kinds of people. Who are these? Ans: (i)Highlight skilled and educated people: service sector in India employs them in multinational companies, public sector and several private enterprises. They are an asset as they add up high income in the National Income of the country.
(ii)Low skilled and less educated people: They are also employed in the service sector, but most of them are uneducated and work in unorganised sectors. They are employed as painters, plumbers, repairpersons, etc.
Q14 Workers are exploited in the unorganised sector. Do you agree with this view? Give reasons in support of your answer. Ans:
Workers are exploited in the unorganised sector. I agree with this view. The unorganised sector does not offer any job security and are outside the control of the government.
Unorganised Sector
Neither does it allow for scope of trade or workers’ unions. Workers can be easily exploited in this scenario.
The workers have no job security and no medical benefits. They do not get extra pay for overtime.
Q15. How are the activities in the economy classified on the basis of employment conditions? Ans: They are mainly classified in two types: (i) Organised Sector
The enterprises or place of work where the terms of employment are regular and therefore, people have job security.
They have to follow its rules and regulations which are given in various laws such as the Factories Act, Minimum Wages Act, Payment of Gratuity Act, shops and establishments Act, etc.
They work only fixed number of hours. Workers enjoy benefits like paid leave, Provident fund and medical benefits.
(ii) Unorganised Sector
The enterprises or place of work are not registered by the government and does not follow any rules or regulations.
There are no terms of employment.
Workers do not enjoy security of employment.
Workers do not enjoy any benefits.
Q16. Compare the employment conditions prevailing in the organised and unorganised sectors. Ans:
The employment conditions prevailing in the organised and unorganised sectors are vastly different.
The organised sector has companies registered with the government and hence, it offers job security, paid holidays, pensions, health and other benefits, fixed working hours and extra pay for overtime work.
On the other hand, the unorganised sector is a host of opposites.
There is no job security, no paid holidays or pensions on retirement, no benefits of provident fund or health insurance, unfixed working hours and no guarantee of safe work environment.
Q17 Explain the objective of implementing the MG NREGA 2005. Ans: The objective of implementing the MG NREGA 2005 are:
To increase the income and employment of people.
Every state/region can develop tourism, regional craft, IT, etc. for additional employment.
The central government made a law implementing the right to work in 200 districts.
MGNREGA aims to provide employment of 100 days. If it fails to do so, it will give unemployment allowances to the people.
Q18. Using examples from your area compare and contrast the activities and functions of private and public sectors. Ans:
Q19. Discuss and fill the following table giving one example each from your area.
Ans:
Q20. Give a few examples of public sector activities and explain why the government has taken them up. Ans:
AIIMS: To provide quality health services at a reasonable rate was the main purpose of the government to start this, besides medical education. Railways: only the government can invest a large sum of money on a public project with long gestation period. And also to ensure and provide transportation at cheap rates. Electronic Power Generation by NTPC: The government has taken this up to provide electricity at a reasonable rate to consumers.
Q21. Explain how public sector contributes to the economic development of a nation. Ans:
The public sector plays a vital role in contributing to the Human Development Index via its functioning in health and education services.
Also, by buying food grains at a “fair price” from farmers, providing electricity, water, postal services at low rates, the government ensures that the people have a good living.
It utilises taxes and grants to pay for the same.
Thus, it plays a vital role in adding to the economic development of a nation, based on its human development situation.
Q22. The workers in the unorganised sector need protection on the following issues: wages, safety and health. Explain with examples. Ans: The workers in the unorganised sector need protection on the following issues: wages, safety, and health.
Wages: Wages and working hours are not uniform. For example, in the construction sector, labourers are employed on a daily basis. There is a need for proper implementation of a minimum wages act set up by the government to protect such workers from economic exploitation.
Safety: The workers’ safety is secondary to the company’s profits. For instance, miners working in private mining companies suffer grievous injuries (and many a time, even die) due to inadequate safety gear and norms. Governments of most nations have now laid down strict rules for private enterprises to ensure workers’ safety but they are not followed by the unorganised sector.
Health: Most companies in the unorganised sector do not provide health insurance to their employees. Some of these might be involved in dangerous production processes that may harm a worker’s health in the long term. For example, there is no sick leave for labourers working on daily wages.
Q23. A study in Ahmedabad found that out of 15,00,000 workers in the city, 11,00,000 worked in the unorganised sector. The total income of the city in this year (1997-1998) was ₹60,000 million. Out of this ₹32,000 million was generated in the organised sector. Present this data as a table. What kind of ways should be thought of for generating more employment in the city? Ans:
It is clear that while a larger portion of workers is working in the unorganized sector, the per capita earning of those in the organized sector is more.
The government should encourage entrepreneurs in the unorganized sector to change them into the organized sector.
Moreover, the government should introduce some incentives so that more industries could be opened up in the organized sector.
Q24. The following table gives the GDP in Rupees (Crores) by the three sectors:
(i) Calculate the share of the three sectors in GDP for 2000 and 2013. (ii) Show the data as a bar diagram similar to Graph 2 in the chapter. (iii) What conclusions can we draw from the bar graph? Ans:
(iii) The conclusion can be drawn from the bar graph that the share of the tertiary sector to GDP has increased by 10 percent while that of the primary sector is almost halved and the secondary sector has grown by 2 percent in the last 13 years.
Double Coincidence
