“Economic growth in the recent past has been led by increase in labour productivity.” Describe this assertion. Provide a growth trajectory that will increase employment without lowering labor productivity. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
Model Answer Since gaining independence in 1947, India has implemented a series of industrial policies aimed at fostering economic growth, creating employment, and enhancing competitiveness. Here’s a brief overview of these policies: Industrial Policy Resolution, 1948: This policy established IndiaRead more
Model Answer
Since gaining independence in 1947, India has implemented a series of industrial policies aimed at fostering economic growth, creating employment, and enhancing competitiveness. Here’s a brief overview of these policies:
- Industrial Policy Resolution, 1948: This policy established India as a mixed economy, categorizing industries into four groups:
- Exclusive monopoly of the Central government (e.g., arms, atomic energy, railways).
- Industries reserved for the state (e.g., coal, iron and steel).
- Industries of basic importance regulated by the government.
- Remaining industries open to private enterprises and cooperatives. Foreign investments were restricted under this policy.
- Industrial Policy Resolution, 1956: Known as the “Economic Constitution of India,” this policy emphasized expanding the public sector and preventing private monopolies. It classified industries into three sectors:
- Schedule A: Public sector (17 industries).
- Schedule B: Mixed sector (12 industries).
- Schedule C: Private sector only. It also highlighted the importance of small-scale industries for employment and economic decentralization.
- Industrial Policy Statement, 1977: This policy focused on employment generation for the poor, reducing wealth concentration, and prioritizing small-scale industries. It imposed restrictions on multinational companies (MNCs).
- Industrial Policy Statement, 1980: This policy aimed to promote competition, modernization, and technological upgrades. It liberalized licensing and reaffirmed the Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act (MRTP) and the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA).
- New Industrial Policy, 1991: Marking a significant shift, this policy aimed at liberalization, privatization, and globalization. It increased the foreign direct investment (FDI) ceiling from 40% to 51% in selected sectors and allowed 100% FDI in certain areas like infrastructure. Industrial licensing was largely abolished, except for 18 industries, and the MRTP commission was established to regulate monopolistic practices.
- Recent Initiatives: The National Manufacturing Policy (2011) and the Make in India scheme (2014) were launched to further enhance manufacturing capabilities and attract investment. There is an ongoing discussion about the need for a new industrial policy to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth for the future.
These policies reflect India’s evolving approach to industrialization, balancing state control with market forces to foster economic development.
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Economic Growth and Labour Productivity **1. Role of Labour Productivity in Economic Growth: Labour productivity refers to the output per unit of labour input. Recent economic growth has been significantly driven by improvements in labour productivity. For instance, India's IT sector has seen tremenRead more
Economic Growth and Labour Productivity
**1. Role of Labour Productivity in Economic Growth:
**2. Recent Examples:
Growth Pattern for Job Creation and Labour Productivity
**1. Skill Development and Education:
**2. Support for Emerging Sectors:
**3. Entrepreneurship and Small Enterprises:
**4. Infrastructure Development:
By focusing on skill development, supporting emerging sectors, fostering entrepreneurship, and investing in infrastructure, India can create more jobs while maintaining high labour productivity. This balanced approach ensures sustainable economic growth and equitable job distribution.
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