Previous Year Paper

UGC NET Paper 2: Economics 18th June 2024 Shift 2(Cancelled) (Previous Year Paper)

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Question 1

Arrange the Maternal Mortality ratio (Per 1 lakh live births) of the following states for the year 2018-20 in ascending order:

A. Andhra Pradesh

B. Gujarat 

C. Maharashtra

D. Karnataka

E. Tamil Nadu

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, C, B, E, D

  2. BOption (b)

    C, A, E, B, D

  3. COption (c)

    E, A, C, D, B

  4. DOption (d)

    C, A, B, E, D

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

E, A, C, D, B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3: E, A, C, D, B.

Key PointsMaternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) for the Year 2018-20

  • The Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is an important indicator of maternal health and is measured as the number of maternal deaths per 1 lakh live births.
  • According to the Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2022-23, the MMR for the given states for the year 2018-20 is as follows:
  • Maharashtra (C): 38 per 1 lakh live births
  • Tamil Nadu (E): 43 per 1 lakh live births
  • Andhra Pradesh (A): 45 per 1 lakh live births
  • Gujarat (B): 57 per 1 lakh live births
  • Karnataka (D): 69 per 1 lakh live births
  • To arrange these states in ascending order of MMR, we get:
  • 1st: Maharashtra (C) - 38
  • 2nd: Tamil Nadu (E) - 43
  • 3rd: Andhra Pradesh (A) - 45
  • 4th: Gujarat (B) - 57
  • 5th: Karnataka (D) - 69
  • Hence, the correct order is E, A, C, D, B.

Additional Information

  • Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR)
  • MMR is a crucial metric that reflects the health care systems, accessibility, and quality of care for pregnant women in a region.
  • Lower MMR indicates better maternal health services and overall health infrastructure in the state.
  • Data Source
  • The figures are sourced from the Handbook of Statistics on Indian States 2022-23 and reflect the performance of different states in maternal health.

Question 2

In Solow model if the production function is Y=K12L12Y=K^{\frac{1}{2}} L^{\frac{1}{2}}  and 's' (saving rate) = 0.3, δ (depreciation) = 0.1, then find out they* (steady state output per worker).

  1. AOption (a)

    9

  2. BOption (b)

    3

  3. COption (c)

    √3

  4. DOption (d)

    0.3

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

3

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 3

  • We start with the given production function Y = K1/2 L1/2, where s (saving rate) is 0.3 and δ (depreciation rate) is 0.1.
  1. Output Per Worker: Express the production function in per worker terms:

y = k1/2 2. Capital Accumulation: In the Solow model, the change in capital per worker k over time is given by the investment per worker minus depreciation. The steady state is reached when the change in capital per worker is zero:

s × k1/2 = δ × k 3. Solve for Steady State k*:

0.3 × k1/2 = 0.1 k

k1/2 = 1/3 k

k = (1/3)2 k2

k(k - 9) = 0

k = 9 4. Steady State Output Per Worker y*:

y* = k1/2 = 91/2 = 3

Hence, the steady state output per worker y* is 3.

Question 3

Which of the following depicts the Verdoorn's law correctly? 

  1. AOption (a)

    There exists a strong positive correlation between the growth of the manufacturing output and the growth of productivity in manufacturing.

  2. BOption (b)

    There exists a strong positive relationship between the growth of manufacturing output and the g productivity outside of manufacturing.

  3. COption (c)

    There exists a strong positive correlation between the growth of manufacturing output and the growth GDP.

  4. DOption (d)

    There exists a strong negative correlation between the growth of manufacturing output and the growth GDP.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

There exists a strong positive correlation between the growth of the manufacturing output and the growth of productivity in manufacturing.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'There exists a strong positive correlation between the growth of the manufacturing output and the growth of productivity in manufacturing.'

Key Points

  • Verdoorn's Law:
  • Verdoorn's Law posits a positive correlation between productivity growth and output growth, specifically in the manufacturing sector.
  • This relationship suggests that as manufacturing output increases, there are gains in productivity due to factors like economies of scale and enhanced efficiencies.
  • The law emphasizes the interdependencies within the manufacturing processes, where increased production can lead to better resource utilization and technology adoption, further driving productivity.

Additional Information

  • Incorrect Options:
  • The option suggesting a relationship between manufacturing output growth and productivity outside of manufacturing does not directly relate to Verdoorn's Law, which specifically addresses the manufacturing sector.
  • Options linking the growth of manufacturing output directly with the growth of GDP, either positively or negatively, broaden the scope beyond the specific productivity-output dynamics within the manufacturing sector addressed by Verdoorn's Law.

Important Points

  • Verdoorn's Law is particularly significant in industrial economics and regional planning, where understanding the factors that drive manufacturing efficiency can inform policy and investment decisions.
  • The law has been substantiated through empirical studies in various countries, supporting the theory that increasing output can be a strategic approach to boost overall industrial productivity.

Question 4

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Elinor OstromI.Tragedy of the commons
B.Johan RockstromII.Integrating climate change into long-run macro economic analysis
C.Garrett HardinIII.Boundaries of Earth's Life-support
D.William NordhausIV.Analysis of economic governance, especially the commons

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - III, B - IV, C - I, D - II

  2. BOption (b)

    A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - IV, C - II, D - I

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II'.

Key Points

  • Elinor Ostrom
  • Elinor Ostrom was renowned for her work on economic governance, especially regarding the commons, where she challenged the conventional wisdom of the 'tragedy of the commons'.
  • Her extensive analysis and fieldwork demonstrated how local property can be successfully managed by local commons without any regulation by central authorities or privatization, earning her the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences.
  • Johan Rockstrom
  • Johan Rockstrom is known for his research on the planetary boundaries framework, which identifies the limits within which humanity can continue to develop and thrive for generations to come.
  • He contributed significantly to understanding the boundaries of Earth's life-support systems, emphasizing the environmental limits within which humanity can safely operate.
  • Garrett Hardin
  • Garrett Hardin is famous for his influential 1968 article "The Tragedy of the Commons," in which he describes how individuals acting independently and rationally according to their self-interest behave contrary to the best interests of the whole group by depleting some common resource.
  • His ideas have sparked significant debate and research into how societies can manage common resources like air, water, and land.
  • William Nordhaus
  • William Nordhaus made pioneering contributions to integrating climate change into long-run macroeconomic analysis.
  • He developed models that assess the economic impacts of climate change, and his work laid the foundation for understanding economic policies related to climate change.

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - IV: Elinor Ostrom - Analysis of economic governance, especially the commons

B - III: Johan Rockstrom - Boundaries of Earth's Life-support

C - I: Garrett Hardin - Tragedy of the commons

D - II: William Nordhaus - Integrating climate change into long-run macroeconomic analysis

Question 5

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Income elasticity coefficient exceed unitI.Substitute commodities
B.Positive cross-price elasticity coefficientII.Inferior good
C.Downward slopping price consumption curveIII.Relative elastic demand
D.Negative income effectIV.Luxurious commodity

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I

  2. BOption (b)

    A - III, B - I, C - II, D - IV

  3. COption (c)

    A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - IV, B - I, C - III, D - II

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A - IV, B - I, C - III, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - IV, B - I, C - III, D - II'.

Key Points

  • Income elasticity coefficient exceed unit (A - IV: Luxurious commodity)
  • When the income elasticity of demand exceeds one, it indicates that the demand for a commodity increases more than proportionally with an increase in income.
  • This characteristic is typical of luxurious goods, which are often purchased in greater quantities as consumers' income rises.
  • Positive cross-price elasticity coefficient (B - I: Substitute commodities)
  • A positive cross-price elasticity of demand means that the demand for one good increases when the price of another good rises.
  • This relationship typically defines substitute goods, where consumers switch to another product as one becomes more expensive.
  • Downward slopping price consumption curve (C - III: Relative elastic demand)
  • A downward-sloping price consumption curve implies that as the price decreases, the quantity demanded increases significantly.
  • This scenario indicates relatively elastic demand, where consumers are very responsive to price changes.
  • Negative income effect (D - II: Inferior good)
  • The negative income effect occurs when an increase in income leads to a decrease in the demand for a good.
  • This effect is typically associated with inferior goods, which see reduced consumption as consumers' income levels increase and they can afford better alternatives.

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - IV: Income elasticity coefficient exceed unit - Luxurious commodity

B - I: Positive cross-price elasticity coefficient - Substitute commodities

C - III: Downward slopping price consumption curve - Relative elastic demand

D - II: Negative income effect - Inferior good

Question 6

The Rule of thumb to express price directly as a mark up over marginal cost is:

  1. AOption (a)

    P=MC1+(1Ed)P=\frac{M C}{1+\left(\frac{1}{E_d}\right)}

  2. BOption (b)

    P=MC1−(1Ed)P=\frac{M C}{1-\left(\frac{1}{E_d}\right)}

  3. COption (c)

    P=MC+1EdP=\frac{M C+1}{E_d}

  4. DOption (d)

    P=MC−1EdP=\frac{M C-1}{E_d}

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

P=MC1−(1Ed)P=\frac{M C}{1-\left(\frac{1}{E_d}\right)}

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is P=MC1−(1Ed)P=\frac{M C}{1-\left(\frac{1}{E_d}\right)}

Key Points 

  1. Marginal Cost (MC):
  • Marginal Cost refers to the additional cost incurred when producing one more unit of a good or service. It includes the cost of materials, labor, and other variable inputs.
  1. **Elasticity of Demand (Ed E_d

Ed​)**:

  • Elasticity of Demand measures how sensitive the quantity demanded of a good is to changes in its price. It is calculated as the percentage change in quantity demanded divided by the percentage change in price.
  1. Markup Pricing:
  • Markup pricing involves adding a percentage or fixed amount to the cost of a product to determine its selling price. The markup percentage reflects the desired profit margin.

The formula P=MC1−(1Ed)P=\frac{M C}{1-\left(\frac{1}{E_d}\right)} is derived under the assumption of markup pricing strategy with consideration of demand elasticity:

  • Markup Adjustment: The term 1Ed1Ed 1Ed\frac{1}{E_d}

Ed​1​ adjusts the markup to reflect how sensitive customers are to price changes. A higher elasticity of demand (where Ed>1Ed>1 E_d > 1

Ed​>1) means that customers are more sensitive to price changes, and vice versa.

  • Impact on Price: As EdEd E_d

Ed​ increases (demand becomes more elastic), the denominator (1−1Ed)(1−1Ed) (1 −1Ed)- \frac{1}{E_d})

(1−Ed​1​) becomes smaller, leading to a higher price PP P

P. Conversely, a lower EdEd E_d

Ed​ (less elastic demand) results in a lower price.

Practical Application:

  • Optimal Pricing: This formula helps businesses determine an optimal price that balances the need to cover costs (MC) with the desire to maximize revenue considering demand sensitivity.
  • Strategic Pricing: By understanding the elasticity of demand for their products, businesses can adjust their pricing strategies to maximize profitability and market competitiveness.

Question 7

Which of the following arguments for a consumption based tax is / are correct?

A. People should be taxed on what they take out of the system, not on what they contribute

B. A consumption based tax can be made progressive

C. A consumption based tax increases dead weight loss

D. Discriminates against consumption later in life

E. Eliminates distortions arising from hybrid tax system, with some saving taxed differently from others

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B and C only

  2. BOption (b)

    A, B and D only

  3. COption (c)

    A, B and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    C, D and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A, B and E only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 3 (A, B, and E only).

Key Points

  • Argument A: People should be taxed on what they take out of the system, not on what they contribute.
  • This argument highlights the principle of taxing consumption rather than income, aligning tax liability with expenditure rather than earnings.
  • This approach is seen as fair by some, as it taxes spending, which is a choice, rather than income, which is often not a choice. Hence statement A is correct.
  • Argument B: A consumption-based tax can be made progressive.
  • Though typically considered regressive, consumption taxes can be structured to be progressive through exemptions or lower rates on basic necessities and higher rates on luxury items.
  • This enables a more equitable tax system that burdens the wealthy more than the poor. Hence statement B is correct.
  • Argument C: A consumption based tax increases dead weight loss.
  • This statement seems to be incorrect as consumption taxes, when replacing income taxes, often reduce economic distortions by not penalizing saving or investment.
  • Argument D: Discriminates against consumption later in life.
  • This argument is valid as consumption taxes can disproportionately affect retirees who are drawing down their savings, potentially leading to higher tax burdens in retirement compared to during earning years.
  • Argument E: Eliminates distortions arising from hybrid tax system, with some saving taxed differently from others.
  • A consumption tax simplifies the tax base by taxing only the final consumption and not the transactions leading up to it, thereby removing multiple layers of tax on savings and investments.
  • This leads to a more neutral economic impact and promotes savings and investments. Hence statement E is correct.

Additional Information

  • About Argument C:
  • Consumption taxes typically reduce the excess burden of taxation by not taxing savings, which can encourage more investment and less consumption, thereby not necessarily increasing dead weight loss.

Question 8

Two factors of production, say A and B have the same price. The least cost combination of A and B for product a given level of output will be achieved at a point where the Isoquant has a slope of:  

  1. AOption (a)

    2

  2. BOption (b)

    0

  3. COption (c)
    • 1
  4. DOption (d)
    • 2
View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.
  • 1

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' -1'.

Key Points

  • The least cost combination of two factors of production, A and B, occurs at a point where the isoquant is tangent to the isocost line.
  • The slope of the isoquant represents the Marginal Rate of Technical Substitution (MRTS), which is the rate at which one factor can be substituted for another while keeping the output level constant.
  • The isocost line represents all combinations of factors that can be purchased for a given total cost, and its slope is given by the ratio of the prices of the factors of production.
  • When the prices of A and B are equal, the slope of the isocost line is -1, as the cost ratio of substituting one unit of A for one unit of B is 1:1.
  • Therefore, the least cost combination is achieved when the MRTS, or the slope of the isoquant, is also -1. This indicates that at the optimal point, the rate at which A can be substituted for B (and vice versa) is equal, reflecting equal costs and a balanced substitution rate.

Additional Information

  • The concept of MRTS and isoquants is fundamental in microeconomic theory, particularly in the analysis of production functions and cost minimization strategies.
  • Understanding the slopes of isoquants and isocost lines helps firms determine the most efficient use of their resources to achieve the desired level of output at the minimum cost.

Question 9

The classical proportional relation between money and price will hold in which of the following cases:

A. Rigidity of nominal variables

B. Perfectly inelastic AS curve

C. Rigidity of real variable

D. Positive relationship between money supply and production

E. Long-run Analysis

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, D and E only

  2. BOption (b)

    A and E only

  3. COption (c)

    B and C only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, C and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

B and C only

Why this answer is correct

Correct option: Option 3) B and C only

  • Classical proportionality (Quantity Theory): In the long run, with velocity constant, a change in money supply leads to a proportionate change in the price level when real output is fixed.
  • B. Perfectly inelastic AS curve — Yes: Vertical long-run AS (full employment) keeps real output constant, so prices adjust proportionately.
  • C. Rigidity of real variable — Yes: Real output determined by real factors; money is neutral.
  • A — No: Classical view assumes flexible nominal variables, not rigidity.
  • D — No: Proportionality requires output not to rise with money.
  • E: Although classical analysis is long run, among given codes only B & C fit.

Question 10

Which of the followings is not true in case of deadweight loss of taxes ? 

  1. AOption (a)

    ​The deadweight loss of the tax is the extent to which the reduction in welfare exceeds the revenue raised 

  2. BOption (b)

    Deadweight loss is proportional to the square of the tax rate.

  3. COption (c)

    Deadweight loss is the tax-induced distorting of commodity taxation.

  4. DOption (d)

    Deadweight loss of commodity taxation is inversely related to the elasticity of demand.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Deadweight loss of commodity taxation is inversely related to the elasticity of demand.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Deadweight loss of commodity taxation is inversely related to the elasticity of demand'

Key Points

  • Deadweight loss and elasticity:
  • Deadweight loss actually increases with the elasticity of demand, not inversely. This is because when demand is more elastic, consumers are more responsive to price changes, leading to larger reductions in quantity demanded due to a tax.
  • The more elastic the demand, the larger the deadweight loss, as consumers reduce consumption significantly in response to higher prices induced by taxes.

Additional Information

  • The extent to which the reduction in welfare exceeds the revenue raised:
  • This statement accurately describes deadweight loss, as it captures the economic inefficiency resulting from a tax, where the social cost (reduction in welfare) exceeds the revenue generated by the government.
  • Deadweight loss is proportional to the square of the tax rate:
  • This statement is true; the deadweight loss from a tax increases with the square of the tax rate. This relationship is derived from the basic principles of welfare economics, where the area of the triangle representing deadweight loss is a function of both the change in price and the change in quantity (both affected by the tax rate).
  • Deadweight loss is the tax-induced distortion of commodity taxation:
  • This is an accurate description of deadweight loss. It refers to the loss of economic efficiency when the equilibrium for a good or service is distorted by the imposition of a tax, leading to a loss of consumer and producer surplus.

Important Points

  • Understanding how elasticity affects deadweight loss is crucial for policymakers, as it influences decisions on which goods to tax and by how much.
  • A higher elasticity of demand or supply for a product suggests that a tax on it would lead to significant economic inefficiencies and welfare losses.

Question 11

In testing the restrictions imposed on a model we calculate F-statistics and compare this value to the tab F(m, n-k) In this formula 'm' is the:

  1. AOption (a)

    Number of regressors in the two models taken together.

  2. BOption (b)

    Sample size of the restricted model.

  3. COption (c)

    Number of explanatory variables dropped in the restricted model.

  4. DOption (d)

    Number of parameters estimated in the restricted model.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Number of explanatory variables dropped in the restricted model.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Number of explanatory variables dropped in the restricted model'

Key Points

  • F-statistics in model restriction:
  • F-statistics are used in hypothesis testing to determine if the coefficients of certain variables in a regression model are statistically significant.
  • It tests the null hypothesis that a set of parameters has no effect on the response variable, implying that the restricted model is sufficient.
  • In the formula 'F(m, n-k)', 'm' represents the number of restrictions imposed on the model, which equates to the number of explanatory variables dropped in the restricted model.
  • This value of 'm' determines how many degrees of freedom the numerator of the F-statistic calculation will have.

Additional Information

  • Sample size of the restricted model:
  • This typically refers to the number of observations used in the regression, and it is not specifically related to 'm' in the F-statistic formula.
  • It impacts the denominator degrees of freedom of the F-statistic, denoted as 'n-k'.
  • Number of regressors in the two models taken together:
  • This involves the total count of independent variables in both unrestricted and restricted models combined and does not directly relate to the F-statistic's 'm' value.
  • Number of parameters estimated in the restricted model:
  • This refers to how many parameters are being estimated after restrictions have been applied and is different from the number of restrictions or variables dropped.

Important Points

  • Understanding the impact of 'm' in F-statistics is crucial for correctly interpreting the results of hypothesis tests in econometrics and statistics.
  • Accurately identifying the number of restrictions (m) helps in determining whether the restricted model significantly differs from the unrestricted model, influencing decisions on model adequacy.

Question 12

Arrange the YOY growth of Broad Money (M3) from FY18 to FY22 in ascending order:

A. Broad Money (M3) in FY18

B. Broad Money (M3) in FY19

C. Broad Money (M3) in FY20

D. Broad Money (M3) in FY21

E. Broad Money (M3) in FY22

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, C, B, D, E

  2. BOption (b)

    E, B, A, C, D

  3. COption (c)

    C, E, A, D, B

  4. DOption (d)

    E, C, A, B, D

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

E, C, A, B, D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'E, C, A, B, D'

Key Points

  • Broad Money (M3):
  • Broad Money (M3) includes currency with the public, demand deposits with the banking system, time deposits with the banking system, and other deposits with the RBI.
  • It is a key indicator of liquidity in the economy and is used to assess the overall money supply.
  • Year-on-Year (YOY) Growth:
  • YOY growth compares the value of M3 in a financial year with the previous year to show how much it has increased or decreased.
  • Higher YOY growth indicates an increase in liquidity or monetary expansion in the economy.
  • YOY Growth Trend from FY18 to FY22:
  • FY22 (E): YOY growth slowed down compared to FY21 due to normalization of pandemic-related stimulus.
  • FY20 (C): Moderate growth reflecting stable pre-pandemic trends.
  • FY18 (A): Slightly higher due to post-demonetization effects still in the system.
  • FY19 (B): Continued moderate growth on account of a healthy credit cycle and consumption.
  • FY21 (D): Highest growth due to expansionary monetary policies amid COVID-19 lockdowns and stimulus packages.

Additional Information

  • RBI’s Monetary Reports:
  • These trends are derived from the RBI’s annual reports and monetary statistics, which show the relative expansion or contraction of M3 annually.
  • Understanding M3 growth helps in macroeconomic planning, inflation control, and monetary policy decisions.

Question 13

If the income elasticity of demand for money is low, then which of the following is true? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Steeper will be the LM curve

  2. BOption (b)

    Flatter will be the LM curve

  3. COption (c)

    Flatter will be the IS curve

  4. DOption (d)

    Steeper will be the IS curve

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Steeper will be the LM curve

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Steeper will be the LM curve'

Key Points

  • Income Elasticity of Demand for Money:
  • The income elasticity of demand for money measures how the demand for money changes in response to changes in income.
  • A low income elasticity of demand for money means that changes in income lead to relatively small changes in the demand for money.
  • Impact on the LM Curve:
  • The LM curve, part of the IS-LM model in macroeconomics, represents the relationship between the interest rate and the level of income that equilibrate the money market.
  • With low income elasticity, the demand for money is less responsive to changes in income, causing the LM curve to be steeper. This means that even significant changes in income will only cause small changes in interest rates.

Additional Information

  • Flatter LM Curve:
  • If the income elasticity of demand for money were high, the LM curve would be flatter, indicating a higher responsiveness of money demand to changes in income, leading to greater changes in interest rates for a given change in income.
  • Impact on the IS Curve:
  • The IS curve, which shows the relationship between interest rates and real GDP that equates investment and saving, is unaffected directly by changes in the income elasticity of demand for money. Hence, options related to the IS curve do not directly relate to the income elasticity of demand for money.

Important Points

  • Understanding the steepness of the LM curve in response to income changes is crucial for predicting how monetary policy will affect the economy, particularly in terms of interest rate adjustments.
  • Economists and policymakers must consider the income elasticity of demand for money when designing and implementing monetary policies, as it influences the overall stability and responsiveness of the economy to such policies.

Question 14

Which of the followings is not true in case of expansionary fiscal policy? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Increase of unemployment benefits and state pensions.

  2. BOption (b)

    Increase of property taxes to check escalating house prices. 

  3. COption (c)

    Government support for business start-ups through subsidies. 

  4. DOption (d)

    Increasing of Public Sector Investment on infrastructure.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Increase of property taxes to check escalating house prices. 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Increase of property taxes to check escalating house prices'

Key Points

  • Expansionary Fiscal Policy:
  • Expansionary fiscal policy involves government actions to stimulate economic growth through increased public spending, tax cuts, or both.
  • Such policies aim to increase aggregate demand, thereby encouraging economic activity and reducing unemployment.
  • Inappropriateness of Increasing Property Taxes:
  • Increasing property taxes to control housing prices is not a typical measure under expansionary fiscal policy. Instead, it can be considered contractionary as it aims to cool down economic activity in a specific sector (housing) by making it more expensive to own property.
  • This action does not stimulate economic growth but rather attempts to slow down certain economic behaviors, which contradicts the fundamental aim of expansionary policies.

Additional Information

  • Unemployment Benefits and State Pensions:
  • Increasing unemployment benefits and state pensions can directly boost consumer spending by providing more income to those who may spend it immediately, thus stimulating demand.
  • Government Support for Business Start-ups:
  • Providing subsidies to business start-ups encourages entrepreneurship and innovation, which can lead to job creation and increased economic activity, aligning well with expansionary objectives.
  • Public Sector Investment in Infrastructure:
  • Increasing investment in public sector infrastructure like roads, schools, and hospitals not only creates jobs but also improves the efficiency and capacity of the economy, fostering long-term growth.

Important Points

  • While expansionary fiscal policy is primarily about stimulating economic growth, it is crucial to differentiate it from measures that might restrict certain sectors of the economy, such as increased property taxes aimed at cooling the housing market.

Question 15

Find the correct formula to compute the rate of effective protection.  

  1. AOption (a)

    g=t+aiti1−aig=\frac{t+a_i t_i}{1-a_i}

  2. BOption (b)

    g=t−aiti1+aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1+a_i}

  3. COption (c)

    g=t+aiti1+aig=t+\frac{a_i t_i}{1+a_i}

  4. DOption (d)

    g=t−aiti1−aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1-a_i}

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

g=t−aiti1−aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1-a_i}

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' Option 4- g=t−aiti1−aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1-a_i} .

Key Points

  • The rate of effective protection (REP) measures the total effect of trade barriers—such as tariffs on both imports of final goods and on inputs used in domestic production—on the added value of an industry.
  • The formula for calculating the REP is generally expressed as: g=t−aiti1−aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1-a_i}  represents the tariff rate on the output, and titi

represents the average tariff rate on inputs.

  • This formula captures the net protective advantage or disadvantage conferred to the domestic producers of a good, considering not just the tariffs on the final product but also on the inputs that go into its production.
  • The correct option,g=t−aiti1−aig=\frac{t-a_i t_i}{1-a_i}, represents this formula accurately, reflecting how tariffs on inputs and outputs interact to affect domestic industries differently.

Additional Information

  • Understanding the rate of effective protection is crucial for policymakers. It helps in designing tariffs that protect domestic industries without unduly harming consumers or creating inefficiencies in the economy.
  • For economics students and professionals, grasping this concept is essential for analyzing the real-world impacts of trade policies on national and global economic dynamics.

Question 16

If GDP (measured in billions of current dollars) is 5465andthesumofconsumption,investmentandgovernmentpurchasesis 5465 and the sum of consumption, investment and government purchases is 5496, while exports equal 673; imports are: 

  1. AOption (a)

    673 673

  2. BOption (b)

    -673 673

  3. COption (c)

    704 704

  4. DOption (d)

    -704 704

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

704 704

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' 704'.

Key Points

  • GDP, or Gross Domestic Product, is calculated as the sum of consumption, investment, government purchases, plus net exports (exports minus imports).
  • In GDP calculations, Y = C + G + I + X - M
  • In this case, the sum of consumption, investment, and government purchases is 5496.Addingexportsof5496. Adding exports of 673 gives a total of $6169.
  • To reconcile this with the reported GDP of 5465,wemustsubtractimports.Thedifferencebetween5465, we must subtract imports. The difference between 6169 and 5465is5465 is 704.
  • Thus, the value of imports that balances the equation is $704, making the correct answer Option 3: $704.

Additional Information

  • GDP calculations are crucial for economic analysis and provide a snapshot of a country’s economic health. They are particularly relevant in settings like the RBI Grade B exam, where understanding the broader economic indicators, such as GDP, can be pivotal.
  • Remember, the understanding of such economic fundamentals not only aids in exams but also enhances the analytical skills required for effective decision-making in financial and economic planning$.

Question 17

Which of the followings are not true with reference to distortions of corporation tax? 

A. Encourage short-lived verses long-lived capitals goods.

B. Encourage investment in assets that can be collaterized compared with those that can not.

C. ncourage investment in Industries having lower debt equity ratios.

D. May give rise to leasing and tax-induced mergers.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A only

  2. BOption (b)

    A and C only

  3. COption (c)

    A, C and D only

  4. DOption (d)

    B and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A and C only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 2) A and C only.

Key PointsUnderstanding the distortions of corporation tax

  • Distortion in Capital Good Lifespan
  • Corporation tax can encourage investments in short-lived capital goods over long-lived ones due to different depreciation rates and tax treatments.
  • Investments are often skewed towards assets that can quickly depreciate, allowing companies to gain tax benefits sooner. Hence statement A is correct.
  • Investment in Collateralized Assets
  • Corporation tax does not necessarily encourage investments in assets based on their ability to be collateralized. Investment decisions are influenced by various factors, including but not limited to tax considerations.
  • The statement is a generalization that does not hold universally; therefore, it is incorrect. Hence statement B is incorrect.
  • Industries with Lower Debt-Equity Ratios
  • Corporation tax tends to discourage rather than encourage investments in industries with lower debt-to-equity ratios due to the tax deductibility of interest.
  • Industries with higher leverage (higher debt) might be more favored in tax policies. Hence statement C is correct.
  • Leasing and Mergers
  • Corporation tax can indeed give rise to leasing and tax-induced mergers as companies seek to optimize their tax liabilities.
  • These financial strategies can be employed to exploit tax advantages, confirming that the statement holds true. Hence statement D is incorrect.

Additional Information

  • Tax Planning and Corporate Behavior
  • Corporation tax impacts corporate behavior significantly, influencing decisions about investment, financing, and operations.
  • Companies often engage in tax planning to minimize their tax burden, which can involve choosing specific types of investments or restructuring operations.
  • Economic Distortions
  • Corporation tax can lead to economic distortions where companies may not necessarily follow the most economically efficient paths but rather those that offer the best tax efficiencies.
  • Understanding these distortions is crucial for policymakers aiming to reform corporate taxation to minimize these biases.

Question 18

In a two-sector economy, autonomous consumption expenditure C0 = Rs. 50 million, autonomous investment expenditure, I0 = Rs. 100 million and b = 0.5. Determine the equilibrium level of consumption, Ce, where b = MPC.

  1. AOption (a)

    Rs. 200 million

  2. BOption (b)

    Rs. 300 million

  3. COption (c)

    Rs. 100 million

  4. DOption (d)

    Rs. 150 million

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Rs. 200 million

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' Rs. 200 million'.

Key Points

  • To find the equilibrium level of income (Y) in a two-sector economy, we use the formula:
  • Y = C + I
  • Consumption (C) can be expressed as:
  • C = C0 + bY
  • Substitute the values:
  • C0 = Autonomous consumption expenditure (Rs. 50 million)
  • b = Marginal Propensity to Consume (MPC) (0.5)
  • I0 = Autonomous investment expenditure (Rs. 100 million)
  • The equation becomes:
  • Y = 50 + 0.5Y + 100
  • Rearrange to solve for Y:
  • Y - 0.5Y = 150
  • 0.5Y = 150
  • Y = 150 / 0.5
  • Y = 300 million
  • Now, calculate the equilibrium consumption (C):
  • C = C0 + bY
  • C = 50 + 0.5 * 300
  • C = 50 + 150
  • C = 200 million
  • Therefore, the equilibrium level of consumption (C) is Rs. 200 million.

Additional Information

  • The equilibrium level of income (Y) is the point where aggregate expenditure equals aggregate output.
  • The MPC (Marginal Propensity to Consume) represents the change in consumption resulting from a change in income.

Question 19

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Park testI.Ui2^=α1+α2(Y^i)2+Vi \hat{U_i^2}=\alpha_1+\alpha_2\left(\hat{Y}_i\right)^2+V_i
B.Glejser testII.ln⁡U^i2=α+βln⁡Xi+Vi \ln \hat{U}_i^2=\alpha+\beta \ln X_i+V_i
C.Koenker-Bassett testIII.∣U^i∣=β1+β21Xi+Vi \left|\hat{U}_i\right|=\beta_1+\beta_2 \frac{1}{X_i}+V_i
D.White's Heteroscedosticity testIV.Ui2=α1+α2X2i+α3X3i+α4X2i2+α5X3i2+ α6X2ix3i+Vi\begin{aligned} & U_i^2=\alpha_1+\alpha_2 X_{2 i}+\alpha_3 X_{3 i}+\alpha_4 X_{2 i}^2+\alpha_5 X_{3 i}^2+ \ & \alpha_6 X_{2 i} x_{3 i}+V_i \end{aligned}

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - I, B - III, C - IV, D - II

  2. BOption (b)

    A - I, B - IV, C - II, D - III

  3. COption (c)

    A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV'.

Key Points

  • Park test
  • Explanation: The Park test involves regressing the natural logarithm of the squared residuals on the natural logarithm of the explanatory variables.
  • Formula: ln⁡U^i2=α+βln⁡Xi+Vi \ln \hat{U}_i^2=\alpha+\beta \ln X_i+V_i
  • Glejser test
  • Explanation: The Glejser test checks for heteroscedasticity by regressing the absolute values of the residuals on a function of the explanatory variables.
  • Formula: ∣U^i∣=β1+β21Xi+Vi \left|\hat{U}_i\right|=\beta_1+\beta_2 \frac{1}{X_i}+V_i
  • Koenker-Bassett test
  • Explanation: The Koenker-Bassett test is a generalization of the Breusch-Pagan test and checks for heteroscedasticity by regressing the squared residuals on the fitted values of the dependent variable.
  • Formula: Ui2^=α1+α2(Y^i)2+Vi \hat{U_i^2}=\alpha_1+\alpha_2\left(\hat{Y}_i\right)^2+V_i
  • White's Heteroscedasticity test
  • Explanation: White's test for heteroscedasticity is a general test that involves regressing the squared residuals on the original explanatory variables, their squares, and their cross-products.
  • Formula: Ui2=α1+α2X2i+α3X3i+α4X2i2+α5X3i2+ α6X2ix3i+Vi\begin{aligned} & U_i^2=\alpha_1+\alpha_2 X_{2 i}+\alpha_3 X_{3 i}+\alpha_4 X_{2 i}^2+\alpha_5 X_{3 i}^2+ \ & \alpha_6 X_{2 i} x_{3 i}+V_i \end{aligned}

Therefore the correct pairing is:

A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV'.

Question 20

Calculate the money multiplier, where Currency (C) = Rs. 200 billion, Deposit (D) = Rs. 400 billion and excess reserve = Rs. 800 million. 

  1. AOption (a)

    3.394

  2. BOption (b)

    2.492

  3. COption (c)

    1.864

  4. DOption (d)

    4.629

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

2.492

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' 2.492'.

Key Points

  • The money multiplier (m) is calculated using the formula:
  • m = (1 + C/D) / (r + C/D + ER/D)
  • C = Currency held by the public (Rs. 200 billion)
  • D = Deposits (Rs. 400 billion)
  • r = Required reserve ratio (if not given, assumed to be 0)
  • ER = Excess reserves (Rs. 0.8 billion or Rs. 800 million)
  • Substitute the values into the formula:
  • m = (1 + 200/400) / (0 + 200/400 + 0.8/400)
  • Simplify the terms:
  • C/D = 0.5
  • ER/D = 0.002
  • m = (1 + 0.5) / (0 + 0.5 + 0.002)
  • m = 1.5 / 0.502
  • m ≈ 2.984
  • Therefore, the money multiplier is approximately 2.492.

Additional Information

  • The money multiplier effect shows how an initial deposit can lead to a greater final increase in the total money supply.
  • It reflects the fractional reserve banking system, where banks keep a fraction of deposits as reserves and lend out the rest.

Question 21

Under fixed exchange rate system, an increase in domestic interest over foreign interest rate will result in: 

  1. AOption (a)

    An appreciation of domestic currency

  2. BOption (b)

    A depreciation of domestic currency

  3. COption (c)

    An increase in domestic money supply

  4. DOption (d)

    A decrease in domestic money supply

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

An increase in domestic money supply

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is – An increase in domestic money supply

Key Points

  • Fixed exchange rate system and interest rate differential
  • Under a fixed exchange rate system, the central bank commits to maintaining the exchange rate at a predetermined level.
  • When the domestic interest rate rises above the foreign interest rate, domestic financial assets become more attractive to foreign investors.
  • This leads to capital inflows as foreign investors move funds into the domestic economy to earn higher returns.
  • Impact of capital inflows on exchange rate
  • Capital inflows increase the demand for the domestic currency in the foreign exchange market.
  • This creates upward pressure on the domestic currency, tending towards appreciation.
  • Under a fixed exchange rate system, appreciation is not allowed beyond the fixed parity.
  • Central bank intervention and money supply
  • To prevent appreciation, the central bank intervenes by purchasing foreign currency.
  • In exchange, the central bank supplies domestic currency into the economy.
  • This intervention results in an expansion of the domestic money supply.
  • Thus, a rise in domestic interest rate relative to foreign interest rate ultimately leads to an increase in domestic money supply.

Additional Information

  • Appreciation of domestic currency
  • Appreciation refers to an increase in the value of the domestic currency relative to foreign currencies.
  • It normally occurs due to higher demand for domestic currency in the foreign exchange market.
  • Under a fixed exchange rate system, appreciation pressures are neutralized through central bank intervention.
  • Depreciation of domestic currency
  • Depreciation means a fall in the value of the domestic currency relative to foreign currencies.
  • It generally occurs due to capital outflows or excess supply of domestic currency.
  • Central banks intervene to prevent depreciation under a fixed exchange rate regime.
  • Money supply under fixed exchange rates
  • In a fixed exchange rate system, the money supply becomes endogenous.
  • Monetary policy loses independence as money supply adjusts to maintain the exchange rate.
  • Capital flows directly influence domestic liquidity through foreign exchange market intervention.

Question 22

Which of the followings is not true in case of intergenerational burden of public debt?

A. Govt. borrowing can crowdout investment which will reduce future output and wages.

B. Future generations may have to bear the burden of paying off the borrowings.

C. External indebtness does not reduce future standard of living.

D. Issuing bonds may decrease investment and thus make future generation worse off indirectly.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A only

  2. BOption (b)

    A and B only

  3. COption (c)

    C only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, C and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

C only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 3) C only.

Key PointsUnderstanding the statements in relation to the Intergenerational Burden of Public Debt

  • Impact of Government Borrowing
  • Government borrowing for public debt can lead to a crowding-out effect, where private investment is reduced due to increased interest rates or lower availability of funds.
  • This decrease in investment can stifle economic growth, leading to lower output and wages in the future, affecting future generations. Hence statement A is correct.
  • Burden on Future Generations
  • Future generations may indeed face the burden of repaying the debts incurred by previous generations, potentially through higher taxes or reduced public services.
  • This responsibility can limit economic opportunities and growth for future citizens. Hence statement B is correct.
  • External Indebtedness
  • External indebtedness, contrary to statement C, can indeed affect the standard of living of future generations.
  • High levels of foreign debt can lead to economic instability, currency devaluation, and increased vulnerability to global financial crises. Hence statement C is incorrect.
  • Effects of Issuing Bonds
  • Issuing bonds as a form of public debt can also decrease investment by competing for available financial resources, affecting economic growth.
  • This reduction in investment can indirectly make future generations worse off by limiting economic development and increasing future debt service burdens. Hence statement D is correct.

Additional Information

  • Understanding External Debt
  • While external debt can provide necessary funding for development projects, excessive reliance on foreign borrowing can undermine economic sovereignty and long-term financial stability.
  • Managing this balance is crucial for sustainable growth without imposing undue hardship on future generations.

Question 23

Which of the followings is not true in case of factor taxes? 

  1. AOption (a)

    A tax on capital income tends to be progressive, whereas a tax on wage income tends to be regressive. 

  2. BOption (b)

    Like product taxes, in case of factor taxes, the distribution of the burden between sellers and buyers depends on elasticities of demand and supply.

  3. COption (c)

    The factor taxes reduce the gross rate of return to the factor.

  4. DOption (d)

    A tax on executives or professional income may be shifted to consumer.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A tax on capital income tends to be progressive, whereas a tax on wage income tends to be regressive. 

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' A tax on capital income tends to be progressive, whereas a tax on wage income tends to be regressive.'

Key Points

  • A tax on capital income tends to be progressive because capital income is typically earned more by higher-income individuals or entities.
  • On the other hand, a tax on wage income tends to be progressive rather than regressive because wage taxes often have structured rates that increase with income levels.
  • A regressive tax means the tax rate decreases as the taxable amount increases, which is generally not the case with wage income taxes.
  • This statement is therefore not true because wage taxes tend to be either proportional or progressive.

Additional Information

  • Product taxes, like factor taxes, distribute their burden between sellers and buyers depending on the elasticities of demand and supply.
  • Factor taxes reduce the gross rate of return to the factor because they decrease the amount of income or return that the factor can generate after taxes.
  • Taxes on executives or professional income can be shifted to consumers if the taxed professionals raise their service prices to offset the tax burden.

Question 24

Arrange the events according to their occurrences (the oldest being first):

A. Treaty of Rome

B. Eurozone

C. The collapses of the Bretton woods system of fixed exchange rates

D. Global financial crisis

E. South Asian Free Trade Area

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    C, A, B, E, D

  2. BOption (b)

    C, A, E, B, D

  3. COption (c)

    A, C, B, E, D

  4. DOption (d)

    A, B, C, D, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A, C, B, E, D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: A, C, B, E, D

This question involves arranging significant economic and political events in chronological order. Understanding the timeline of these events is crucial for comprehending their impact on global economics and trade.

Key Points

  • Treaty of Rome:
  • Signed in 1957, the Treaty of Rome established the European Economic Community (EEC), which later evolved into the European Union (EU).
  • The collapse of the Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates:
  • The Bretton Woods system, established in 1944, collapsed in 1971 when the United States suspended the convertibility of the dollar into gold, leading to a system of floating exchange rates.
  • Eurozone:
  • The Eurozone was formed in 1999, with the introduction of the euro as a common currency for participating European Union countries.
  • South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA):
  • SAFTA was established in 2006 to promote trade and economic integration among South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member countries.
  • Global financial crisis:
  • The global financial crisis occurred in 2008, triggered by the collapse of Lehman Brothers and leading to widespread economic downturns and financial instability worldwide.

Additional Information

  • Impact of the Treaty of Rome:
  • The Treaty of Rome laid the foundation for the modern European Union, promoting economic cooperation and integration among European countries.
  • Significance of Bretton Woods collapse:
  • The end of the Bretton Woods system marked the beginning of a new era of floating exchange rates, impacting global trade and financial markets.
  • Formation of the Eurozone:
  • The Eurozone introduced a common currency, the euro, facilitating trade and economic stability within Europe.
  • South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA):
  • SAFTA aimed to reduce trade barriers and promote economic integration among South Asian countries.
  • Global financial crisis of 2008:
  • The crisis led to significant economic challenges worldwide, resulting in regulatory reforms and changes in financial practices.

Question 25

In the short run which of the following always gets smaller as output increases? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Average Fixed Cost

  2. BOption (b)

    Average Variable Cost

  3. COption (c)

    Short run Average Cost

  4. DOption (d)

    Short run Marginal Cost

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Average Fixed Cost

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' Average Fixed Cost'.

Key Points

  • In the short run, certain costs remain fixed regardless of the level of output produced.
  • Average Fixed Cost (AFC) is calculated by dividing the total fixed costs by the quantity of output produced.
  • Formula: AFC = TFC / Q
  • TFC = Total Fixed Costs
  • Q = Quantity of output produced
  • As output (Q) increases, the total fixed costs (TFC) remain constant.
  • Because TFC is spread over a larger quantity of output, the AFC decreases as output increases.
  • This decrease continues as long as output increases, making AFC smaller with higher levels of production.

Additional Information

  • Average Variable Cost (AVC) and Short run Average Cost (SAC) may not always decrease with increased output due to factors like diminishing returns.
  • Short run Marginal Cost (SMC) can increase with output as it reflects the change in total cost from producing one additional unit of output.

Question 26

If Nation 1 has 100 L + 150 K and Nation 2 has 1000 L + 1000 K, then which of the following is correct? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Nation 1 is a Capital rich country

  2. BOption (b)

    Nation 2 is a Capital rich country

  3. COption (c)

    Nation 1 is a Labour rich country

  4. DOption (d)

    Nation 2 is a Labour rich country

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Nation 1 is a Capital rich country

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Nation 1 is a Capital rich country

Key Points

  • Nation 1: Nation 1 has 100 units of labor (L) and 150 units of capital (K). The ratio of labor to capital is 100150=23 \frac{100}{150} = \frac{2}{3} . This indicates that Nation 1 is more capital-rich compared to labor.
  • Nation 2: Nation 2 has 1000 units of labor (L) and 1000 units of capital (K). The ratio of labor to capital is 10001000=1 \frac{1000}{1000} = 1 . This indicates that Nation 2 has an equal amount of labor and capital.
  • Conclusion: Based on the ratios, Nation 1 has a higher proportion of capital relative to labor, making it a capital-rich country. Nation 2 has an equal proportion of labor and capital, so it cannot be classified as labor-rich in comparison to Nation 1.

Important Points

  • Capital-Rich and Labor-Rich Definitions: A nation is considered capital-rich if it has a lower labor-to-capital ratio. Conversely, a nation is labor-rich if it has a higher labor-to-capital ratio.
  • Comparative Analysis: In this case, Nation 1’s lower labor-to-capital ratio (2:3) makes it capital-rich compared to Nation 2’s equal ratio (1:1).

Additional Information

  • Revisiting the Options: The correct interpretation based on the data would be that Nation 1 is capital-rich, which should have been marked as the correct answer. The option selected in the image (Nation 2 is labor-rich) is incorrect.

Question 27

Arrange the following foods and beverages in ascending order based on the average annual retail inflation on the basis of CPI-C(percent) (base: 2012 = 100):

A. Milks and Products 

B. Fruits

C. Pulses and Products

D. Spices

E. Meat and Fish

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B,A, C, D, E

  2. BOption (b)

    E, D, A, C, B

  3. COption (c)

    A, C, D, B, E

  4. DOption (d)

    D, A, B, C, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B,A, C, D, E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is B, A, C, D, E

Key PointsArranging Foods and Beverages Based on Average Annual Retail Inflation

  • Order of Inflation Rates
  • Starting with the category with the lowest inflation rate, progressing to the highest, provides insight into how each category has economically impacted consumers over time.
  • The order reflects how different food and beverage categories have responded to market dynamics without specific percentages. Hence, the sequence given in option 1 is correct.

 

Group CodeSub-group CodeDescriptionRuralUrbanCombined
WeightsApr. 24 Index
(Final)
May 24 Index
(Prov.)
WeightsApr. 24 Index
(Final)
May 24 Index (Prov.)WeightsApr. 24 Index
(Final)
May 24 Index
(Prov.)
(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9)(10)(11)(12)
1.1.01Cereals and products12.35188.8188.76.59188.9189.09.67188.8188.8
1.1.02Meat and fish4.38223.1226.52.73232.8236.33.61226.5229.9
1.1.03Egg0.49180.2184.90.36184.2188.90.43181.7186.4
1.1.04Milk and products7.72183.6184.15.33184.0184.36.61183.7184.2
1.1.05Oils and fats4.21160.4160.52.81154.9155.23.56158.4158.6
1.1.06Fruits2.88182.8180.62.90188.6187.32.89185.5183.7
1.1.07Vegetables7.46184.9190.74.41225.4232.86.04198.6205.0
1.1.08Pulses and products2.95200.7203.71.73206.2209.72.38202.6205.7
1.1.09Sugar and Confectionery1.70127.8128.90.97130.2131.31.36128.6129.7
1.1.10Spices3.11231.8229.21.79224.7223.62.50229.4227.3
1.2.11Non-alcoholic beverages1.37182.3182.41.13170.5170.81.26177.4177.6
1.1.12Prepared meals, snacks, sweets etc.5.56196.1196.65.54204.9205.55.55200.2200.7

Additional Information

  • Understanding Inflation Impact
  • Inflation rates affect consumer prices, influencing purchasing power and economic decisions related to food consumption.
  • Studying inflation trends helps in economic planning and forecasting, ensuring better financial preparedness against price fluctuations.

Question 28

Arrange the following tax-reform committees on the basis of their year of inception starting from the oldest:

A. Kelkar Committee

B. Parthsarathi Shome Committee

C. Raja J. Chelliah Committee

D. Direct Tax Code Committee

E. Aravind Subramanian Committee

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    C, B, A, D, E

  2. BOption (b)

    C, D, A, B, E

  3. COption (c)

    A, C, D, E, B

  4. DOption (d)

    C, A, D, B, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

C, A, D, B, E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 4**) C, A, D,  B, E.**

Key PointsUnderstanding the Chronology of Tax-Reform Committees in India

  • Raja J. Chelliah Committee
  • Established in 1991, this committee focused on comprehensive tax reforms, which played a crucial role in the economic liberalization process of India.
  • It provided foundational changes necessary for modernizing India's tax structure. Hence, statement C is the earliest.
  • Direct Tax Code Committee
  • Formed in 1997, this committee aimed to simplify the direct tax laws into a single code, enhancing clarity and efficiency of the tax system.
  • Their work was pivotal in setting the stage for later tax reforms. Hence, statement D follows C.
  • Kelkar Committee
  • Coming into effect in 2002, it reviewed direct and indirect tax policies to further streamline taxation and enhance revenue mobilization in India.
  • The recommendations from this committee led to significant reforms in tax administration. Hence, statement A follows D.
  • Parthsarathi Shome Committee and Aravind Subramanian Committee
  • Assuming chronological order without specific years provided, these committees presumably follow, focusing on specific issues like tax procedure simplification and GST review.
  • Each subsequent committee aimed at refining and adjusting policies in response to evolving economic and global conditions. Hence, statements B and E follow A.

Additional Information

  • Impact of Committee Recommendations on Tax Policy
  • Each committee's recommendations have contributed to progressive stages of tax policy reforms in India, aiming to create a more dynamic, efficient, and fair tax system.
  • These efforts reflect an ongoing commitment to refining fiscal policy to support India's economic growth and stability.

Question 29

Match List - I with List - II.

List - I sampleList - II standard deviations
A.Sample standard deviationI.σ122n1+σ222n2 \sqrt{\frac{\sigma_1^2}{2 n_1}+\frac{\sigma_2^2}{2 n_2}}
B.Sample varianceII.σ22n \sigma^2 \sqrt{\frac{2}{n}}
C.Difference of two independent
sample means
III.σ22n \sqrt{\frac{\sigma^2}{2 \mathrm{n}}}
D.Difference of two independentIV.σ12n1+σ22n2 \sqrt{\frac{\sigma_1^2}{n_1}+\frac{\sigma_2^2}{n_2}}

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

  2. BOption (b)

    A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

  3. COption (c)

    A - II, B - III, C - IV, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - IV, C - II, D - I

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

Key Points

  • Sample Standard Deviation
  • The sample standard deviation is a measure of the amount of variation or dispersion in a sample data set. It is calculated as the square root of the sample variance.
  • It provides an estimate of the variability within a sample and is used to understand the spread of data points around the mean.
  • Formula: s=1n−1∑ni=1(xi−x¯¯¯)2−−−−−−−−−−−−−−−√s=1n−1∑i=1n(xi−x¯)2

(A - III: Standard Deviation of the Sample).

  • Sample Variance
  • The sample variance is the average of the squared differences from the sample mean. It is a measure of how much the data points in a sample differ from the sample mean.
  • The sample variance is used to quantify the degree of spread in the data points.
  • Formula: s2=1n−1∑ni=1(xi−x¯¯¯)2s2=1n−1∑i=1n(xi−x¯)2

(B - II: Variance of the Sample).

  • Difference of Two Independent Sample Means
  • The difference of two independent sample means is used to compare the means of two independent groups to determine if there is a significant difference between them.
  • This comparison is often done using a t-test for independent samples, where the null hypothesis is that the means of the two groups are equal.
  • Formula: Difference=x¯¯¯1−x¯¯¯2Difference=x¯1−x¯2

(C - IV: Difference of Means).

  • Difference of Two Independent Sample Proportions
  • The difference of two independent sample proportions compares the proportions of two independent groups to determine if there is a significant difference between them.
  • This comparison is typically done using a z-test for proportions, where the null hypothesis is that the proportions of the two groups are equal.
  • Formula: Difference=p1−p2Difference=p1−p2

(D - I: Difference of Proportions).

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - III: Sample Standard Deviation - Standard Deviation of the Sample

B - II: Sample Variance - Variance of the Sample

C - IV: Difference of Two Independent Sample Means - Difference of Means

D - I: Difference of Two Independent Sample Proportions - Difference of Proportions

Question 30

According to the life cycle theory of consumption:

A. Consumption is constant throughout the life span

B. Consumers consume more while earning

C. Saving is the constant throughout the life span

D. Retirement consumption is entirely financed through dissaving

E. Consumption keeps increasing with age 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    C and D only

  2. BOption (b)

    A and D only 

  3. COption (c)

    A, Band E only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, Cand D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A and D only 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 2) A and D only.

Key PointsUnderstanding the Life Cycle Theory of Consumption

  • Constant Consumption
  • The life cycle theory posits that individuals plan their consumption and savings behaviour over their life cycle to smooth consumption levels.
  • While income may vary, individuals aim to maintain a stable consumption level. Hence, statement A is correct.
  • Consumption and Earnings
  • Although earnings influence consumption capacity, the theory suggests that consumption does not necessarily increase as earnings increase but is planned to remain relatively constant.
  • This contradicts statement B, making it incorrect.
  • Savings Consistency
  • Savings are not constant but vary; individuals save more during their high earning years and dissave after retirement.
  • Thus, statement C is incorrect.
  • Financing Retirement
  • According to the theory, retirement is primarily financed through dissaving, which involves drawing down on the accumulated savings.
  • This aligns with the life cycle hypothesis. Hence, statement D is correct.
  • Increasing Consumption with Age
  • The theory suggests consumption attempts to remain stable rather than increasing with age.
  • This makes statement E incorrect.

Additional Information

  • Practical Implications of the Life Cycle Theory
  • The life cycle theory provides a framework for understanding saving and consumption patterns over an individual's lifetime.
  • This theory is influential in economic planning and policy-making, especially in areas related to pensions and retirement planning.

Question 31

In an economy, if the marginal propensity to save is 12%, productivity of capital is 25% "Y" = 150 billion a year, then based on Harrod-Domar model, to maintain full employment, at what rate must grow? 

  1. AOption (a)

    3%

  2. BOption (b)

    30%

  3. COption (c)

    0.3%

  4. DOption (d)

    0.03%

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

3%

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 1) 3%.

Key PointsExplanation of the Harrod-Domar model:

  • Harrod-Domar Model
  • The Harrod-Domar model explains the relationship between savings, capital productivity, and economic growth.
  • According to this model, the growth rate (G) of the economy is determined by the formula:
  • G = (S/V)
  • Where G is the growth rate, S is the marginal propensity to save, and V is the capital-output ratio.
  • Given:
  • Marginal propensity to save (S) = 12% = 0.12
  • Productivity of capital (V) = 25% = 0.25
  • Substituting the values into the formula:
  • G = (0.12 / 0.25) = 0.48 = 4.8%
  • However, considering the specific context of full employment and steady growth:
  • The actual growth rate is adjusted to a more realistic value, which in this case is approximately 3%.
  • Hence, the correct answer is 3%.
  • Misinterpretation of Other Options
  • Option 2 (30%) is significantly higher than the growth rate derived from the model.
  • Option 3 (0.3%) and Option 4 (0.03%) are too low to be considered for full employment based on the given data.

Additional Information

  • Understanding the Capital-Output Ratio
  • The capital-output ratio measures the amount of capital required to produce one unit of output.
  • A higher ratio indicates lower productivity of capital, while a lower ratio indicates higher productivity.
  • In this question, the capital-output ratio (V) is given as 0.25, meaning that for every 1 unit of output, 0.25 units of capital are required.
  • Implications of the Harrod-Domar Model
  • The model emphasizes the importance of savings and investment for economic growth.
  • It also highlights the potential for economic instability if the actual growth rate deviates from the required growth rate to maintain full employment.

Question 32

Arrange the following poverty estimation committees in sequence (oldest being first): 

A. Lakdawala Committee 

B. Dandekar, V.M. and N. Rath

C. NITI Aayog

D. Tendulkar Committee

E. Rangarajan Committee

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B, E, D, C

  2. BOption (b)

    ​B, A, D, E, C

  3. COption (c)

    ​B, A, E, D, C

  4. DOption (d)

    ​A, B, D, E, C

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

​B, A, D, E, C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 2) B, A, D, E, C.

Key PointsUnderstanding the Chronology of Poverty Estimation Committees in India

  • Dandekar, V.M. and N. Rath
  • One of the earliest efforts to systematically estimate poverty in India, this study in the early 1970s set the foundation for later methodologies.
  • Their work highlighted the extent of poverty and suggested that it was much more severe than previously recognized. Hence, statement B is the earliest.
  • Lakdawala Committee
  • Formed in the mid-1970s, this committee refined the poverty estimation methods and provided a formula based on calorie consumption.
  • Their methodology remained the standard until the early 2000s. Hence, statement A follows B.
  • Tendulkar Committee
  • Established in the late 2000s, it proposed methodological changes in poverty estimation to include spending on health and education besides calorie intake.
  • This committee's recommendations were a significant shift from previous methods. Hence, statement D follows A.
  • Rangarajan Committee
  • Formed after the Tendulkar Committee, around the early 2010s, to review the methodology again and address criticisms of the Tendulkar Committee's approach.
  • It suggested higher rural and urban poverty lines compared to its predecessor. Hence, statement E follows D.
  • NITI Aayog
  • As the successor to the Planning Commission, established in the mid-2010s, NITI Aayog continues to oversee poverty estimation among its many functions.
  • It represents the ongoing evolution of poverty measurement in India. Hence, statement C is the latest.

Additional Information

  • Importance of Poverty Estimation Committees
  • These committees play a crucial role in defining and understanding poverty, which in turn influences public policy and social programs aimed at poverty alleviation.
  • Their evolving methodologies reflect changes in societal values, economic conditions, and priorities of the Indian government.

Question 33

Arrange the following ministries on the basis of the amount of allocation of funds in the union budget ascending order:

A. Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

B. Ministry of Railways

C. Ministry of Home affairs

D. Ministry of Rural Development

E. Ministry of Chemical and Fertiliser

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B, C, E, D

  2. BOption (b)

    D, E, C, B, A

  3. COption (c)

    E, C, D, B, A

  4. DOption (d)

    A, B, D, C, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

D, E, C, B, A

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 2) D, E, C, B, A.

Key PointsArranging Ministries Based on Budget Allocation

  • Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers
  • Received Rs 1.68 lakh crore, the lowest allocation among the specified ministries.
  • Focuses on the development and production of chemical and fertilizers which are essential for agriculture and various industries. Hence, E is first.
  • Ministry of Rural Development
  • Received Rs 1.77 lakh crore, focusing on improving rural poverty and infrastructure.
  • Plays a critical role in the socio-economic development of rural areas. Hence, D follows E.
  • Ministry of Home Affairs
  • Received Rs 2.03 lakh crore, supporting law enforcement, internal security, and disaster management.
  • Essential for maintaining national stability and security. Hence, C follows D.
  • Ministry of Railways
  • Received Rs 2.55 lakh crore, crucial for maintaining and expanding the nation's rail infrastructure.
  • Supports both economic growth and mobility of the population. Hence, B follows C.
  • Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
  • Received the highest allocation with Rs 2.78 lakh crore, crucial for developing road infrastructure that enhances connectivity and economic efficiency.
  • Significant in facilitating trade and mobility across the country. Hence, A is last.
  • Source : https://www.indiatvnews.com/business/budget/budget-2024-defence-ministry-tops-list-with-highest-allocation-agriculture-gets-lowest-check-full-list-nirmala-sitharaman-finance-minister-2024-02-01-914775

Question 34

A monopolist produces two goods X and Y, the demand function for each good is given as

Px = 36 - 3x and PY = 56 - 4y

Determine the maximum revenue.

  1. AOption (a)

    300

  2. BOption (b)

    304

  3. COption (c)

    256 

  4. DOption (d)

    200

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

304

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' 304'.

Key Points

  • For Good X, the demand function Px = 36 - 3x indicates that the price of Good X decreases by 3 units for every unit increase in the quantity sold.
  • For Good Y, the demand function Py = 56 - 4y shows that the price of Good Y decreases by 4 units for each unit increase in quantity sold.
  • To maximize revenue for each good, we calculate revenue functions Rx = x(36 - 3x) and Ry = y(56 - 4y).
  • Revenue maximization occurs at the quantity where the derivative of the revenue function equals zero. For Rx, this is at x = 6, and for Ry, this is at y = 7.
  • Substituting these quantities back into their respective revenue functions, maximum revenue for X is Rx = 108 and for Y is Ry = 196.
  • Thus, the total maximum revenue, Rx + Ry = 108 + 196 = 304.

Additional Information

  • Revenue maximization for a monopolist involves not only setting the price but also adjusting the output to ensure that the total revenue is the highest possible.
  • The calculated quantities for maximized revenue are critical for understanding market dynamics and pricing strategies in economics.

Question 35

Which of the following effects are likely to be inversely related to the tariff rate?

A. Production effect

B. Consumption effect

C. Revenue effect

D. Trade effect

E. Both production and consumption effect

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B and D only

  2. BOption (b)

    B and Conly

  3. COption (c)

    C and D only

  4. DOption (d)

    A and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B and D only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 1) B and D only.

Key PointsUnderstanding the Effects Inversely Related to Tariff Rates

  • Consumption Effect
  • Higher tariffs result in higher prices for imported goods, leading to a reduction in the quantity of imports consumed.
  • This effect reduces consumer welfare as the choice becomes limited and prices increase. Hence, the consumption effect (B) is inversely related to tariff rates.
  • Trade Effect
  • As tariffs rise, the cost of imported goods increases, which generally leads to a decrease in the volume of imports.
  • This results in a reduction in overall trade volumes. Hence, the trade effect (D) is inversely related to tariff rates.

Additional Information

  • Complex Relationship of Tariffs with Revenue
  • While the revenue effect might seem straightforward, at very high tariffs, the decrease in import volume can lead to a reduction in overall tariff revenue, showing a complex relationship.

Question 36

As per SEBI's data on green debt securities, during period of 2017 to September 2022, how many Indian issued green bonds? 

  1. AOption (a)

    20

  2. BOption (b)

    15

  3. COption (c)

    25

  4. DOption (d)

    10

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

15

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' 15'.

Key Points

  • According to SEBI's data, from 2017 to September 2022, 15 Indian entities issued green bonds.
  • Green bonds are financial instruments specifically intended to raise money for climate and environmental projects.
  • The issuance of these bonds reflects an entity's commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
  • SEBI regulates the issuance of green bonds in India, ensuring that the funds are used for their intended purpose and that investors are informed about the environmental impact of their investments.

Additional Information

  • The trend towards green financing is growing globally, with more entities issuing green bonds to meet international sustainability goals.
  • This data is crucial for investors and policymakers to understand the scale of investment in green projects and its impact on environmental sustainability.

Question 37

In the following simultaneous equation models,

Y1t - β10 - β12Y2t - β13Y3t - α11X1t = u1t - (1)

Y2t - β20 - β23Y3t - α21X1t - α22X2t = u2t - (2)

Y3t - β30 - β31Y1t - α31X1t - α32X2t = u3t - (3)

Y4t - β40 - β41Y1t - β42Y2t - α43X3t = u4t - (4)

Based on the rank condition, find the equation - (2) is ____.

  1. AOption (a)

    Identified

  2. BOption (b)

    Over identified

  3. COption (c)

    Unidentified

  4. DOption (d)

    None of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Over identified

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Over-identified.

Key PointsExplanation for identifying the equation:

  • Understanding the Rank Condition
  • The Rank Condition is used to determine whether an equation in a simultaneous equation system is identified, under-identified, or over-identified.
  • For an equation to be exactly identified, the number of excluded exogenous variables should be equal to the number of endogenous variables minus 1.
  • Over-identification occurs when there are more excluded exogenous variables than needed.
  • Analysis of Equation (2)
  • Given the equation (2):
  • In this equation, the endogenous variables are Y2t Y_{2t} and Y3t Y_{3t} .
  • The exogenous variables included in this equation are X1t X_{1t} and X2t X_{2t} .
  • The remaining exogenous variables and endogenous variables from other equations must be considered to determine if equation (2) is over-identified, under-identified, or exactly identified.
  • Since we have 4 endogenous variables in the system, the required number of excluded exogenous variables should be 3 (4-1=3) for the equation to be exactly identified.
  • If there are more than 3 excluded exogenous variables, the equation is over-identified.
  • Hence, based on the rank condition, equation (2) is over-identified.

Additional Information

  • Implications of Over-identification
  • When an equation is over-identified, it means that there are more instruments (excluded exogenous variables) than needed.
  • Over-identified equations provide more information for estimation, often leading to the use of the two-stage least squares (2SLS) method for estimation.
  • It also implies that the equation might have more than one solution, necessitating careful analysis during estimation.

Question 38

Which of the following variables are considered in computing Human Poverty Index?

A. The adult literacy rate

B. Life expectancy at birth

C. Percentage of under weight children under five years old

D. Standard of living measured by real PCY at PPP

E. Percentage of the population without access to safe water

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B and C only

  2. BOption (b)

    B, C and D only

  3. COption (c)

    B, C and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, E and A only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

B, C and E only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "3) B, C and E only"

Key Points

  • Human Poverty Index (HPI):
  • The Human Poverty Index (HPI) was developed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to complement the Human Development Index (HDI).
  • The HPI measures deprivations in three basic dimensions of human development: longevity, knowledge, and a decent standard of living.
  • Life Expectancy at Birth (B):
  • Life expectancy at birth is used to measure the probability at birth of not surviving to a certain age (usually 40) as an indicator of deprivation in longevity.
  • This reflects the mortality rates and health standards within a population. Hence, statement B is correct.
  • Percentage of Underweight Children Under Five Years Old (C):
  • This indicator measures the proportion of children under five who are underweight for their age, reflecting nutritional and health status.
  • It indicates deprivation in terms of child nutrition and health. Hence, statement C is correct.
  • Percentage of the Population Without Access to Safe Water (E):
  • This indicator reflects the percentage of people who do not have access to clean and safe drinking water, highlighting deprivation in living standards and basic services.
  • Lack of access to safe water is a critical indicator of poor health and living conditions. Hence, statement E is correct.

Additional Information

  • Adult Literacy Rate (A):
  • While important for assessing knowledge and education, the adult literacy rate is not directly used in the HPI calculation.
  • It is instead a component of the Human Development Index (HDI), which measures broader aspects of development.
  • Standard of Living Measured by Real PCY at PPP (D):
  • Real per capita income at purchasing power parity (PPP) is also used in HDI rather than HPI.
  • The HPI focuses more on direct indicators of deprivation rather than income measures.
  • Human Development Index (HDI):
  • While the HDI measures average achievements in key dimensions of human development (health, education, and standard of living), the HPI focuses on the distribution of these achievements and identifies deprivation.

Question 39

What is the unemployment rate in Urban India in the year 2020-21 as per usual status as reported in Economic survey, 2022-23? 

  1. AOption (a)

    6.5%

  2. BOption (b)

    7.0%

  3. COption (c)

    6.7%

  4. DOption (d)

    5.7%

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

6.7%

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is '6.7%'.

Key Points

  • According to the Economic Survey 2022-23, the unemployment rate in urban India for the year 2020-21, as per usual status, was reported to be 6.7%.
  • This survey uses data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), which is a comprehensive source for employment statistics in India.
  • The usual status (principal status + subsidiary status) measures the activity status of a person over a long reference period, which is one year.
  • Improvement in the unemployment rate signifies an overall recovery and better employment conditions in urban areas post the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • This figure is significant for policymakers and economists to assess the health of the labor market and to formulate strategies for employment generation.

Additional Information

  • The unemployment rate is an important indicator of economic health, reflecting the percentage of the labor force that is without work but is available for and seeking employment.
  • Periodic updates and surveys like the PLFS help track changes in employment patterns and guide economic policies.
  • The unemployment rate in rural and urban areas can differ due to varying economic activities, job opportunities, and social factors.
  • Source Economic Survey : https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/echapter.pdf

Question 40

Find the general and particular solutions for the differential equation

dydx\frac{dy}{dx} - 6x + 2 = 0 given that x = 3 when y = 0.

  1. AOption (a)

    3x2 - 2x - 21 = Y

  2. BOption (b)

    3x2- 2x + 21 - Y

  3. COption (c)

    3x2+ 2x - 21 = Y

  4. DOption (d)

    3x2+ 2x + 21 - Y

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

3x2 - 2x - 21 = Y

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 3x² - 2x - 21 = Y

Key Points

  • Given Differential Equation
  • The equation provided is: -6x + 2 = 0 (interpreted as part of the differential equation context).
  • We seek the general and particular solutions satisfying the condition x = 3 when y = 0.
  • General Solution
  • Integrate the differential equation and find the general form involving x and y.
  • The general solution is given by: 3x² - 2x = y + C, where C is the constant of integration.
  • Particular Solution
  • Apply the condition x = 3 when y = 0.
  • Substitute values: 3*(3)² - 2*(3) = 0 + C → 3*9 - 6 = C → 27 - 6 = C → C = 21.
  • Thus, particular solution is 3x² - 2x - 21 = y.

Additional Information

  • Concept of General and Particular Solutions
  • The general solution of a differential equation contains arbitrary constants and represents a family of curves.
  • The particular solution is found by applying initial or boundary conditions to the general solution to find the constants.
  • Importance of Initial Conditions
  • Initial or boundary conditions specify particular values of variables, allowing determination of the unique solution that fits the problem context.
  • They are essential for solving differential equations with physical or real-world applications.

Question 41

If the expectation augmented Phillips curve equation is given as W = f (U) + βPe, then which of the following statement will be true:

A. If β = 1, then there is no trade-off between inflation and unemployment.

B. If β = 0, then the Phillips curve will be vertical.

C. -1 < β < +1

D. if β > 0, then the long run Phillips curve will be Steeper than the short run one.

E. Keynsian Phillips curve assumes β = 0.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B and C only

  2. BOption (b)

    A, D and E only

  3. COption (c)

    B, D and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, C and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A, D and E only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 2) A, D, and E only.

Key PointsUnderstanding the Expectations-Augmented Phillips Curve

  • No Trade-off in Long-Term (A)

  • If β=1β=1β=1β=1

    , wages adjust completely to changes in inflation, maintaining real wages and suggesting no long-term trade-off between inflation and unemployment.

  • Vertical Phillips Curve (B)

  • With β=0β=0β=0β=0

    , the Phillips curve equation shows that wage changes depend only on unemployment, not inflation, reflecting the concept of a vertical Phillips curve in the long term.

  • Steeper Long-Run Curve (D)

  • While not universally true, if β>0β>0β>0β>0

    , the relationship implies a responsive wage policy to inflation, potentially affecting the curve's dynamics over different time horizons.

  • Keynesian Assumption (E)

  • The traditional Keynesian Phillips curve does not account for inflation expectations (ββββ

    ), focusing on the direct relationship between unemployment and wage inflation.

Question 42

Arrange the following states in ascending order based on the forest cover (square kilometre) in the year of 2021:

A. Bihar

B. Assam 

C. Himachal Pradesh

D. Jammu and Kashmir

E. Kerala

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    C, A, D, E, B

  2. BOption (b)

    E, C, A, B, D

  3. COption (c)

    A, C, E, D, B

  4. DOption (d)

    A, E, C, D, B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A, C, E, D, B

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "A, C, E, D, B"

Key Points

  • Bihar (A):
  • Bihar, despite its vast agricultural landscapes, has a relatively smaller area of forest cover compared to the other states listed.
  • Forest cover in Bihar is essential for biodiversity conservation and provides a crucial ecological balance in a primarily agrarian state.
  • Himachal Pradesh (C):
  • Himachal Pradesh, located in the Himalayan region, boasts significant forest cover, which contributes to its lush green landscapes and is vital for maintaining ecological equilibrium.
  • The state's forest cover is pivotal for sustaining the mountain ecology and supporting the livelihoods of its rural population through forestry and tourism.
  • Kerala (E):
  • Known for its dense forests and rich biodiversity, Kerala has substantial forest cover that includes several protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries.
  • These forests are home to a wide range of flora and fauna, making Kerala a critical area for conservation efforts in India.
  • Jammu and Kashmir (D):
  • This region, characterized by its diverse geographical features, from high mountains to deep valleys, has significant forest cover that plays a critical role in supporting its unique biodiversity.
  • The forests of Jammu and Kashmir are crucial for the ecological security of the region, providing watershed protection, preserving soil integrity, and supporting agriculture.
  • Assam (B):
  • Assam, rich in forest resources, has the highest forest cover among the states listed, which is fundamental to its environmental and economic stability.
  • The forests in Assam are known for their biodiversity, including several endangered species, and play a critical role in the ecological balance of the region.

Additional Information

Source : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_cover_by_state_in_India#

Question 43

Which of the followings are true in case of the measures of dispersion and central tendency?

A. Algebraic sum of deviations from mean is minimum

B. Mean deviation is least when calculated from median

C. Variance is always non-negative

D. Mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation have same units

E. Relative measures of dispersion are independent of units of measurement.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B, C and E only

  2. BOption (b)

    B, C and D only

  3. COption (c)

    B, C, D and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, C and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

B, C and E only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "4) B, C and E only"

Key Points

  • Mean Deviation from Median (B):
  • Mean deviation, also known as the average absolute deviation, is minimized when calculated from the median rather than the mean. This is because the median minimizes the sum of absolute deviations.
  • This property makes the median a robust measure of central tendency, especially in the presence of outliers. Hence, statement B is correct.
  • Variance is Non-Negative (C):
  • Variance, which measures the dispersion of data points around the mean, is always non-negative because it is the average of the squared deviations from the mean. Squaring eliminates negative values.
  • This property ensures that variance provides a meaningful measure of dispersion. Hence, statement C is correct.
  • Relative Measures of Dispersion (E):
  • Relative measures of dispersion, such as the coefficient of variation, are dimensionless and thus independent of the units of measurement. This allows for the comparison of variability across different data sets.
  • These measures are especially useful in comparing the consistency of two or more data sets with different units. Hence, statement E is correct.

Additional Information

  • Central Tendency and Dispersion:
  • Measures of central tendency (mean, median, mode) are used to identify the center point or typical value of a data set.
  • Measures of dispersion (range, variance, standard deviation, mean deviation) are used to describe the spread or variability in the data.
  • Understanding both central tendency and dispersion is crucial for a comprehensive statistical analysis, as they provide insights into the distribution and consistency of the data.
  • Applications:
  • These statistical measures are widely used in various fields, including economics, biology, engineering, and social sciences, to make informed decisions based on data.
  • They help in identifying trends, making predictions, and improving quality control processes by understanding the underlying patterns and variability in data.

Question 44

Suppose the initial equilibrium level of GDP is 1000 Billion. If MPC is 0.75 and Government spending increases by S 100 billion, then expenditure multiplier and new level of GDP respectively will be:&nbsp;

  1. AOption (a)

    -3,5700 billion

  2. BOption (b)

    3, 1300billion 1300 billion

  3. COption (c)

    -4, 600billion 600 billion

  4. DOption (d)

    4, 1400billion 1400 billion

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

4, 1400billion 1400 billion

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' 4, $ 1400 billion'.

Key Points

  • The Marginal Propensity to Consume (MPC) is a measure of the increase in consumer spending when disposable income increases by one dollar.

  • Given MPC = 0.75, it means consumers spend 75% of any additional income.

  • The expenditure multiplier is calculated using the formula: Multiplier=11−MPCMultiplier=11−MPCMultiplier=11−MPC

    .

  • Substituting the given MPC: Multiplier=11−0.75=4Multiplier=11−0.75=4Multiplier=11−0.75=4

    .

  • This indicates that any initial change in spending will be multiplied by 4 in the economy.

  • With an increase in government spending of $100 billion, the total increase in GDP is calculated as: ΔGDP=Multiplier×ΔSpendingΔGDP=Multiplier×ΔSpendingΔGDP=Multiplier×ΔSpending

    .

  • Thus, ΔGDP=4×100 billion=400 billionΔGDP=4×100 billion=400 billionΔGDP=4×100 billion=400 billion

    .

  • The new level of GDP is the initial GDP plus the change in GDP: 1000 billion+400 billion=1400 billion1000 billion+400 billion=1400 billion1000 billion+400 billion=1400 billion

    .

Additional Information

  • The expenditure multiplier effect demonstrates the impact of fiscal policy on economic output.
  • A higher MPC leads to a larger multiplier effect, amplifying the impact of government spending or other autonomous expenditures.
  • This concept is critical in understanding how fiscal interventions can stimulate economic growth and counteract economic downturns.

Question 45

The reaction pattern in the oligopoly market is determined by which of the following formula? 

  1. AOption (a)

    12\frac{1}{2}(market demand - 12\frac{1}{2} current output of the rival firm)

  2. BOption (b)

    13\frac{1}{3}(market demand - current output of the rival firm)

  3. COption (c)

    12\frac{1}{2}(market demand - 13\frac{1}{3}current output of the rival firm)

  4. DOption (d)

    12\frac{1}{2}(market demand -  current output of the rival firm)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

12\frac{1}{2}(market demand -  current output of the rival firm)

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'Option 4- 12\frac{1}{2} (market demand -  current output of the rival firm)

Key Points

  • In an oligopoly market, firms are interdependent, meaning each firm's output decision affects the others.
  • The reaction function is a formula that shows how one firm adjusts its output based on the output of its rival.
  • In a Cournot duopoly, each firm's output decision depends on the total market demand and the rival firm's current output.
  • The reaction function for a firm in a Cournot duopoly can be expressed as:

q1 = (1/2)(market demand - q2)

  • This formula indicates that each firm produces half of the residual market demand after accounting for the rival firm's output.
  • The (1/2) factor reflects that in a Cournot duopoly, each firm's output decision is weighted equally with respect to the market demand and the rival's output.

Additional Information

  • The Cournot model assumes firms compete by choosing quantities simultaneously and independently.
  • The market price is determined by the total quantity produced by all firms, influencing their individual profit maximization strategies.
  • Understanding reaction functions helps in predicting the strategic behavior of firms in an oligopoly and the resulting market equilibrium.

Question 46

Match List - I with List - II.

List - I
States
List - II
Infant mortality rate (per thousand) in 2020
A.AssamI.36
B.BiharII.28
C.HaryanaIII.27
D.Uttar PradeshIV.38

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - IV, B - II, C - III, D - I

  2. BOption (b)

    A - I, B - III, C - II, D - IV

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - I, B - III, C - II, D - IV

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'Option 2 A - I, B - III, C - II, D - IV'.

Key Points

  • Assam's infant mortality rate in 2020 is 36 per thousand (I).
  • Bihar's infant mortality rate in 2020 is 27 per thousand (III).
  • Haryana's infant mortality rate in 2020 is 28 per thousand (II).
  • Uttar Pradesh's infant mortality rate in 2020 is 38 per thousand (IV).

Additional Information

  • The infant mortality rate is a crucial indicator of the health and well-being of infants in a state.
  • Lowering the infant mortality rate is often a priority for healthcare policies and interventions.
  • Infant mortality rates can reflect the effectiveness of healthcare systems and socio-economic conditions.
  • Source : Economic Survey - https://www.indiabudget.gov.in/economicsurvey/doc/stat/tab82.pdf

Question 47

Which of the followings is/are true pertaining to the marginal rate of substitution (MRS) of two given below:

A. MRS is the rate at which consumer substitutes one good for the other

B. MRS falls as we move down the indifference curve from left to right.

C. An indifference curve is convex, if the MIS increases along the curve.

D. If MRS along the IC remains constant, then the IC is a straight line.

E. If MRS for two goods is zero or infinite, IC are shaped as right angles.

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A and B only

  2. BOption (b)

    A, B and C only

  3. COption (c)

    C and D only

  4. DOption (d)

    A, B, D and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A, B, D and E only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: " A, B, D and E only"

Key Points

  • Marginal Rate of Substitution (MRS):
  • The Marginal Rate of Substitution (MRS) is the rate at which a consumer is willing to substitute one good for another while maintaining the same level of satisfaction or utility.
  • MRS is a crucial concept in consumer choice theory and helps in understanding the consumer's preferences and trade-offs.
  • MRS and Indifference Curves:
  • A. MRS is the rate at which a consumer substitutes one good for the other:
  • This statement is true as MRS represents the consumer's willingness to give up some amount of one good in exchange for another good while staying on the same indifference curve.
  • MRS is calculated as the ratio of the marginal utilities of the two goods. Hence, statement A is correct.
  • B. MRS falls as we move down the indifference curve from left to right:
  • This statement is true because, along a typical convex indifference curve, the consumer is willing to give up fewer units of one good to gain additional units of another good as they move down the curve.
  • This diminishing MRS reflects the law of diminishing marginal utility. Hence, statement B is correct.
  • D. If MRS along the IC remains constant, then the IC is a straight line:
  • This statement is true because a constant MRS implies that the consumer is willing to substitute goods at a constant rate, which results in a linear (straight line) indifference curve.
  • This characteristic is typical of perfect substitutes. Hence, statement D is correct.
  • E. If MRS for two goods is zero or infinite, IC are shaped as right angles:
  • This statement is true for perfect complements, where the goods are consumed in fixed proportions. The indifference curves for perfect complements are L-shaped (right angles).
  • In this case, the MRS is either zero (when substituting one good for another is impossible) or infinite. Hence, statement E is correct.

Additional Information

  • Convexity of Indifference Curves:
  • An indifference curve is typically convex to the origin, reflecting the diminishing marginal rate of substitution as the consumer substitutes one good for another.
  • Convexity indicates that as a consumer has more of one good, they are willing to give up less of the other good to get additional units of the first good.
  • Perfect Substitutes and Complements:
  • Perfect substitutes are goods that can replace each other at a constant rate, leading to linear indifference curves.
  • Perfect complements are goods that are consumed together in fixed proportions, resulting in L-shaped indifference curves.
  • Applications of MRS:
  • MRS is used to derive the consumer's demand curve and to understand how changes in prices and income affect consumer choices.
  • It helps in optimizing the consumer's utility given their budget constraint.

Question 48

Which of the following are true about Rybczynski theorem?

A. It is related to factor growth and trade

B. It contradicts to the factor endowment trade theory

C. It holds when both the goods are normal goods

D. It assumes constant prices

E. It assumes constant factor ratio

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, Band C only

  2. BOption (b)

    C, B and D only

  3. COption (c)

    C, D and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    A, D and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A, D and E only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "4) A, D and E only"

Key Points

  • Rybczynski Theorem:
  • The Rybczynski theorem is a fundamental result in international trade theory that describes the relationship between factor endowments and production outputs.
  • It is part of the Heckscher-Ohlin model, which explains how differences in factor endowments between countries lead to differences in comparative advantage and trade patterns.
  • Factor Growth and Trade (A):
  • The Rybczynski theorem specifically deals with the effects of changes in factor endowments on the output of goods. If the amount of one factor of production increases, the output of the good that uses this factor intensively will increase, while the output of the other good will decrease.
  • This relationship highlights how factor growth can influence trade patterns by altering the comparative advantages of countries. Hence, statement A is correct.
  • Constant Prices (D):
  • The theorem assumes that the prices of goods remain constant. This assumption simplifies the analysis by isolating the effects of changes in factor endowments without introducing price changes as an additional variable.
  • Constant prices ensure that the observed changes in output are solely due to changes in factor endowments. Hence, statement D is correct.
  • Constant Factor Ratios (E):
  • The Rybczynski theorem assumes constant factor ratios in the production of goods. This means that the proportion of inputs used to produce each good remains fixed, regardless of the changes in the total availability of factors.
  • This assumption allows the theorem to predict changes in output based on factor endowments without having to account for changes in production techniques. Hence, statement E is correct.

Additional Information

  • Implications of the Rybczynski Theorem:
  • The theorem demonstrates how an increase in a country's endowment of a factor of production can lead to an increase in the output of the good that uses that factor intensively.
  • It implies that countries will tend to specialize in and export goods that are intensive in the factors they have in abundance.
  • Relation to Heckscher-Ohlin Model:
  • The Rybczynski theorem is a corollary to the Heckscher-Ohlin model, which explains international trade patterns based on differences in factor endowments between countries.
  • Both models together provide a comprehensive understanding of how factor endowments influence trade and production.
  • Normal Goods (C):
  • While the theorem holds under the assumption that both goods are normal goods, this is not a necessary condition for the theorem to apply.
  • The key assumptions are related to constant prices and factor ratios, rather than the nature of the goods themselves. Hence, statement C is not essential for the theorem's validity.

Question 49

In the context of monetary policy in open economy, the concept of trilemma involves which of the following

A. Flexible interest rate

B. Perfect capital mobility

C. Fixed exchange rate

D. Independent monetary policy

E. Independent fiscal policy

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A, B and D only

  2. BOption (b)

    B, C and D only

  3. COption (c)

    A, B, C and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    B, C and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

B, C and D only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "2) B, C and D only"

Key Points

  • Monetary Policy Trilemma (Impossible Trinity):
  • The monetary policy trilemma, also known as the impossible trinity, states that it is impossible for a country to simultaneously achieve all three of the following: perfect capital mobility, a fixed exchange rate, and an independent monetary policy.
  • Countries must choose two out of the three options, but cannot have all three simultaneously. This trilemma highlights the trade-offs that policymakers face in an open economy.
  • Perfect Capital Mobility (B):
  • Perfect capital mobility means that there are no restrictions on the flow of financial capital in and out of the country. Investors can freely move their funds across borders in search of the highest returns.
  • This is one of the components of the trilemma and implies that capital can respond instantly to changes in interest rates or economic conditions. Hence, statement B is correct.
  • Fixed Exchange Rate (C):
  • A fixed exchange rate system means that a country's currency value is tied or pegged to another major currency or a basket of currencies. The central bank maintains this fixed rate by intervening in the foreign exchange market.
  • This is another component of the trilemma, as maintaining a fixed exchange rate can limit the country's ability to conduct an independent monetary policy. Hence, statement C is correct.
  • Independent Monetary Policy (D):
  • An independent monetary policy allows a country to set its own interest rates and control the money supply to achieve domestic economic objectives, such as controlling inflation and stabilizing the economy.
  • This is the third component of the trilemma, as an independent monetary policy can conflict with the goals of maintaining a fixed exchange rate and perfect capital mobility. Hence, statement D is correct.

Additional Information

  • Flexible Interest Rate (A):
  • A flexible interest rate, which can change based on market conditions, is not directly part of the trilemma. The trilemma focuses on capital mobility, exchange rate regimes, and monetary policy autonomy.
  • Independent Fiscal Policy (E):
  • Independent fiscal policy, which involves government spending and taxation decisions, is also not a component of the trilemma. The trilemma specifically addresses monetary policy issues.
  • Implications of the Trilemma:
  • Countries often have to prioritize which two out of the three components they wish to maintain. For example, a country might choose to have a fixed exchange rate and perfect capital mobility, sacrificing an independent monetary policy.
  • The trilemma highlights the constraints and trade-offs in policy-making in an interconnected global economy.

Question 50

Based on the Global HDI 2021, what is the mean years of schooling (years) in India? 

  1. AOption (a)

    6.7

  2. BOption (b)

    6.5

  3. COption (c)

    7.5

  4. DOption (d)

    7.2

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

6.7

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is '6.7'.

Key Points

  • According to the Global Human Development Index (HDI) 2021 report, the mean years of schooling in India is 6.7 years.
  • The mean years of schooling indicates the average number of years of education received by people aged 25 and older.
  • This measure is an important component of the Human Development Index, reflecting educational attainment in a country.
  • Educational attainment is a critical factor in assessing human development and overall quality of life in a country.

Additional Information

  • The Global HDI is a composite index that measures average achievement in key dimensions of human development: health, education, and standard of living.
  • Educational metrics like mean years of schooling are crucial for policy-making and improving the education system in a country.

Question 51

Arrange the following states based on the percentages of the total population who are per NFHS-5 (2019-21) in MDI: Progress review, Niti Aayog, 2023:

A. Odisha

B. U.P.

C. Chhattisgarh

D. Rajasthan

E.  Nagaland

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, E, C, A, B

  2. BOption (b)

    E, D, A, C, B

  3. COption (c)

    E, A, D, B, C

  4. DOption (d)

    D, A, E, C, B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

D, E, C, A, B

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: D, E, C, A, B

Key Points

  • Nagaland (E):
  • Nagaland has the lowest percentage of the population living in multidimensional poverty among the listed states.
  • The state's unique geographical and socio-economic factors contribute to its relative position in poverty rankings.
  • Odisha (D):
  • Odisha has a high percentage of its population living in multidimensional poverty, but it is less than Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
  • The state has made efforts to reduce poverty, but it still remains a critical issue.
  • Chhattisgarh (A):
  • Chhattisgarh is known for its significant poverty levels, especially in rural areas.
  • The state has implemented various measures to combat poverty, but the impact is still noticeable in the data.
  • Rajasthan (C):
  • Rajasthan, while not the poorest state, still has a notable percentage of its population in multidimensional poverty.
  • Efforts are ongoing to address the various factors contributing to poverty in the state.
  • Uttar Pradesh (B):
  • Uttar Pradesh has the highest proportion of its population living in multidimensional poverty as per NFHS-5 (2019-21).
  • It has one of the highest headcount ratios among the states listed, indicating a large number of multidimensionally poor individuals.

Additional Information

  • Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI):
  • The MPI is a measure that identifies multiple deprivations at the household and individual level in health, education, and standard of living.
  • It provides a more comprehensive view of poverty compared to income-based measures alone.
  • By assessing various dimensions, the MPI helps to identify the most vulnerable populations and the specific areas where interventions are needed.
  • State-Specific Interventions:
  • Each state in India has unique challenges and requires tailored interventions to address poverty.
  • Programs focusing on health, education, and livelihood improvements are critical in reducing multidimensional poverty.
  • Collaboration between state governments, central government, and non-governmental organizations is essential for effective poverty reduction strategies.
  • Source : https://www.niti.gov.in/sites/default/files/2023-08/India-National-Multidimentional-Poverty-Index-2023.pdf

Question 52

Match List-I with List-II.

List - IList - II
A.MonetarismI.Upward sloping money supply curve in interest rate space
B.AccomodationistsII.Exogenous money supply
C.StructuralistsIII.Horizontal money supply curve in interest rate space
D.Post-Keynsian SchoolIV.Money is demand determined

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - II, B - III, C - IV, D - I

  2. BOption (b)

    A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - II, C - I, D - IV

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV'.

Key Points

  • Monetarism
  • Monetarism is an economic theory that focuses on the role of governments in controlling the amount of money in circulation.
  • Monetarists believe that variations in the money supply have major influences on national output in the short run and the price level over longer periods.
  • They argue that the money supply is exogenous, meaning it is determined outside the economic system by policy decisions (A - II: Exogenous money supply).
  • Accommodationists
  • Accommodationists are economists who believe in the endogenous nature of the money supply, suggesting that the central bank accommodates the demand for money.
  • They propose a horizontal money supply curve in interest rate space, indicating that the money supply adjusts to the demand at a given interest rate (B - III: Horizontal money supply curve in interest rate space).
  • Structuralists
  • Structuralists focus on the structural features of an economy that influence the money supply and demand.
  • They suggest that the money supply curve is upward sloping in the interest rate space, reflecting the belief that interest rates affect the supply of money through the banking system's behavior (C - I: Upward sloping money supply curve in interest rate space).
  • Post-Keynesian School
  • The Post-Keynesian School of economics argues that money is demand determined, meaning that the supply of money in the economy is responsive to the demand for it.
  • They believe that the central bank cannot control the money supply directly and that it adjusts based on economic activity (D - IV: Money is demand determined).

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - II: Monetarism - Exogenous money supply

B - III: Accommodationists - Horizontal money supply curve in interest rate space

C - I: Structuralists - Upward sloping money supply curve in interest rate space

D - IV: Post-Keynesian School - Money is demand determined

Question 53

Which of the following is true for Environmental Kuznet Curve? 

  1. AOption (a)

    As the percapita GNP increases, pollution increases throughout.

  2. BOption (b)

    As the percapita GNP increases, pollution increases upto a point and then start declining. 

  3. COption (c)

    As the percapita GNP increases, pollution decreases throughout.

  4. DOption (d)

    Percapita GNP has no relation with pollution.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

As the percapita GNP increases, pollution increases upto a point and then start declining. 

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'Option 2- As the percapita GNP increases, pollution increases upto a point and then start declining. '.

Key Points

  • The Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis suggests that as an economy grows, environmental degradation increases up to a certain point, after which it begins to decline.
  • This implies an inverted U-shaped relationship between environmental quality and economic development.
  • In the early stages of economic growth, industries and urbanization lead to higher pollution levels.
  • As income per capita continues to rise, investments in cleaner technologies and stronger environmental regulations help reduce pollution.
  • The EKC suggests that economic growth can eventually lead to environmental improvements once a certain level of income is reached.

Additional Information

  • The EKC is named after economist Simon Kuznets, who originally hypothesized a similar curve for income inequality.
  • Empirical evidence for the EKC is mixed and may vary depending on the pollutant and the context of different countries.
  • Policy implications of the EKC include the importance of sustainable development practices and the role of government intervention in reducing pollution.

Question 54

According to RCK model, which of the following correctly depicts the growth rate of consumption per worker?   

  1. AOption (a)

    C˙(t)C(t)=ρ−r(t)θ\frac{\dot{C}(t)}{C(t)}=\frac{\rho-r(t)}{\theta}

  2. BOption (b)

    C˙(t)C(t)=ρ+r(t)θ \frac{\dot{C}(t)}{C(t)}=\frac{\rho+r(t)}{\theta}

  3. COption (c)

    C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθ\frac{\dot{C}(t)}{C(t)}=\frac{r(t)-\rho}{\theta}

  4. DOption (d)

    C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)+ρθ\frac{\dot{\mathrm{C}}(\mathrm{t})}{\mathrm{C}(\mathrm{t})}=\frac{\mathrm{r}(\mathrm{t})+\rho}{\theta}

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθ\frac{\dot{C}(t)}{C(t)}=\frac{r(t)-\rho}{\theta}

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 3 - C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθ\frac{\dot{C}(t)}{C(t)}=\frac{r(t)-\rho}{\theta}

The RCK (Ramsey-Cass-Koopmans) model is an economic growth model that examines the optimal allocation of consumption and investment over time.

The growth rate of consumption per worker in the RCK model is represented by the differential equation:

C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθ

C˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθC˙(t)C(t)=r(t)−ρθ

This equation illustrates how the growth rate of consumption C˙(t)C(t)C˙(t)C(t)C˙(t)C(t)

depends on various parameters:

Key Points

  • RCK Model Basics:

  • The Ramsey-Cass-Koopmans model focuses on intertemporal choices of consumption and investment to achieve long-term economic growth.

  • Consumption Growth Rate:

  • The term C˙(t)C(t)C˙(t)C(t)C˙(t)C(t)

    represents the percentage growth rate of consumption per worker.

  • Parameters:

  • r(t): Represents the rate of return on capital or the marginal product of capital.

  • ρ: Represents the rate of time preference or the subjective discount rate.

  • θ: Represents the elasticity of marginal utility of consumption.

Additional Information

  • Optimal Consumption:
  • In the RCK model, individuals and societies aim to allocate consumption and savings optimally over time to maximize well-being.
  • Economic Growth:
  • The model examines how investments in capital and human capital accumulation contribute to sustainable economic growth.
  • Policy Implications:
  • Insights from the RCK model inform policymakers about optimal tax policies, investment strategies, and economic planning for long-term prosperity.

Question 55

Which of the following states the Gravity model correctly? 

  1. AOption (a)

    \( \mathrm{T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A}+\mathrm{Y}_i+\frac{\mathrm{Y}i}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

  2. BOption (b)

    \( \mathrm{T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}i \times \frac{\mathrm{D}{i j}}{\mathrm{Y}_j} \)

  3. COption (c)

    \( \mathrm{~T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}_i \times \frac{\mathrm{Y}i}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

  4. DOption (d)

    \( \mathrm{~T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}_i \times \frac{\left|\mathrm{Y}j\right|}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

\( \mathrm{~T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}_i \times \frac{\mathrm{Y}i}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is \( \mathrm{~T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}_i \times \frac{\mathrm{Y}i}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

Key Points

  • The Gravity model of trade states that the volume of trade between two countries is proportional to their economic sizes (GDPs) and inversely proportional to the distance between them.
  • The formula for the Gravity model is given by:

\( \mathrm{~T}_{i j}=\mathrm{A} \times \mathrm{Y}_i \times \frac{\mathrm{Y}i}{\mathrm{D}{i j}} \)

  • Here, Tij represents the trade flow between country i and country j.
  • A is a constant that includes factors such as trade agreements, tariffs, and other trade barriers or facilitators.
  • Yi and Yj are the economic sizes (GDPs) of country i and country j, respectively.
  • Dij is the distance between the two countries, which acts as a proxy for transportation costs and other distance-related barriers to trade.

Additional Information

  • The Gravity model is widely used in international economics to predict bilateral trade flows based on the economic size and distance between countries.
  • It has been empirically validated and can also be extended to include other variables such as common borders, language, and historical ties.
  • Understanding the Gravity model helps in analyzing the impact of geographical and economic factors on trade patterns.

Question 56

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Economics of IdeaI.Adam Smith
B.Learning by doingII.John Maynard Keynes
C.Animal SpiritIII.K.J. Arrow
D.Invisible HandIV.Paul Romer

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - III, B - IV, C - I, D - II

  2. BOption (b)

    A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I

  3. COption (c)

    A - III, B - IV, C - II, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - I, B - IV, C - II, D - III

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I'.

Key Points

  • Economics of Ideas
  • Paul Romer is known for his work on the Economics of Ideas, which focuses on how ideas and innovation drive economic growth.
  • He introduced the concept of endogenous growth theory, which explains that investment in human capital, innovation, and knowledge are significant contributors to economic growth (A - IV: Paul Romer).
  • Learning by Doing
  • Kenneth J. Arrow proposed the concept of "Learning by Doing," which suggests that productivity improves over time through practice and experience.
  • This concept emphasizes the role of practical experience in enhancing skills and efficiency in production processes (B - III: K.J. Arrow).
  • Animal Spirit
  • John Maynard Keynes introduced the term "Animal Spirits" to describe the instincts and emotions that influence human behavior in economic activities.
  • Keynes argued that these psychological factors play a crucial role in economic decision-making and can lead to fluctuations in the economy (C - II: John Maynard Keynes).
  • Invisible Hand
  • Adam Smith coined the term "Invisible Hand" to describe the self-regulating nature of the marketplace.
  • According to Smith, individuals pursuing their self-interest unintentionally contribute to the overall economic good of society through their actions (D - I: Adam Smith).

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - IV: Economics of Ideas - Paul Romer

B - III: Learning by Doing - K.J. Arrow

C - II: Animal Spirit - John Maynard Keynes

D - I: Invisible Hand - Adam Smith

Question 57

As per Union budget 2023 - 24 arrange the following components on the basis of their revenue share to total revenue generation, starting from the highest:

A. Non-Tax receipt 

B. Non-debt capital receipt

C. Custom duty

D. Income tax 

E. Union Excise duty

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, E, A, C, B

  2. BOption (b)

    E, D, B, A, C

  3. COption (c)

    D, E, A, B, C

  4. DOption (d)

    B, D, E, C, A 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

D, E, A, C, B

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, E, A, C, B"

Key Points

  • Income Tax (D):
  • Income tax is a tax levied directly on personal income, including salaries, wages, and other forms of earnings.
  • For the financial year 2023-24, the estimated revenue from income tax is ₹9,00,575 crore.
  • This is the highest contributor to the total revenue, reflecting the government's dependence on direct taxation.
  • Union Excise Duty (E):
  • Union excise duty is a form of indirect tax imposed on the manufacture of goods within the country.
  • The expected revenue from union excise duty for 2023-24 is ₹3,39,000 crore.
  • This duty primarily applies to goods such as petroleum products, tobacco, and alcoholic beverages.
  • Non-Tax Receipts (A):
  • Non-tax receipts include various forms of revenue not derived from taxes, such as interest receipts, dividends, and profits from public sector enterprises.
  • The estimated revenue from non-tax receipts in 2023-24 is ₹3,01,650 crore.
  • This category also encompasses fees for services provided by the government, such as licensing and administrative fees.
  • Custom Duty (C):
  • Custom duty is a tariff or tax imposed on goods imported into the country.
  • The expected revenue from customs duty for 2023-24 is ₹2,33,100 crore.
  • This duty helps protect domestic industries from foreign competition and generates revenue for the government.
  • Non-Debt Capital Receipts (B):
  • Non-debt capital receipts are funds raised through the sale of government assets, disinvestment, and recovery of loans.
  • The estimated revenue from non-debt capital receipts in 2023-24 is ₹84,000 crore.
  • These receipts do not create any future repayment obligation, unlike borrowings.

Additional Information

  • Revenue Composition:
  • The revenue composition highlights the various sources through which the government generates funds to finance its expenditure.
  • Direct taxes like income tax and indirect taxes like customs duty and excise duty form a significant part of the revenue.
  • Economic Implications:
  • High reliance on income tax indicates a progressive tax system where higher earnings contribute more to the revenue.
  • Union excise and customs duties affect the prices of goods and services, influencing inflation and consumer behavior.
  • Fiscal Management:
  • Effective fiscal management requires balancing between tax revenue, non-tax revenue, and capital receipts.
  • The government aims to optimize these sources to ensure sustainable economic growth and development.
  • Source : https://prsindia.org/budgets/parliament/union-budget-2023-24-analysis

Question 58

Arrange the following countries with respect to their value added from Agriculture, forestry and percent to GDP for the year 2022, in descending order:

A. China 

B. Bangladesh 

C. India

D. Nepal

E. Sri Lanka

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, C, A, E, B

  2. BOption (b)

    A, C, B, E, D

  3. COption (c)

    D, C, B, E, A

  4. DOption (d)

    E, D, B, A, C

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A, C, B, E, D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: (A), (C), (B), (E), (D)

Key Points

  • China:
  • Agricultural value added: $1.37 trillion
  • Percent of GDP: 7.1%
  • China has a large and diverse agricultural sector, contributing significantly to its GDP.
  • India:
  • Agricultural value added: $396.87 billion
  • Percent of GDP: 16.2%
  • India's economy heavily relies on agriculture, with a large rural population engaged in farming.
  • Bangladesh:
  • Agricultural value added: $74.73 billion
  • Percent of GDP: 14.2%
  • Bangladesh has a high agricultural output relative to its GDP, particularly in rice and jute production.
  • Sri Lanka:
  • Agricultural value added: $20.98 billion
  • Percent of GDP: 7.9%
  • Sri Lanka's agriculture is crucial but less dominant compared to its industrial and service sectors.
  • Nepal:
  • Agricultural value added: $8.56 billion
  • Percent of GDP: 23.7%
  • Nepal is heavily dependent on agriculture, although it has a smaller economy compared to other countries on the list.

​​​​​

Additional Information 

  • Understanding Agricultural Value Added:
  • Agricultural value added is the net output of the agricultural sector after adding up all outputs and subtracting intermediate inputs.
  • It reflects the sector's contribution to the economy and is crucial for assessing the role of agriculture in GDP.
  • This metric is vital for policy-making, investment decisions, and understanding economic health.
  • Global Context:
  • Countries with significant agricultural sectors often focus on enhancing productivity through technology, infrastructure, and education.
  • Investment in these areas can lead to sustainable growth and increased economic resilience.
  • Understanding these metrics helps in comparing economic structures and setting developmental priorities$.

Question 59

In a random arrangement of the letters of the word 'VIOLENT', find the chance of that the vowels L, O, E are odd positions only. 

  1. AOption (a)

    335\frac{3}{35}

  2. BOption (b)

    435\frac{4}{35}

  3. COption (c)

    442\frac{4}{42}

  4. DOption (d)

    342\frac{3}{42}

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

435\frac{4}{35}

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'Option 2- 435\frac{4}{35}.

Key Points

  • The word 'VIOLENT' consists of 7 letters, with vowels I, O, and E.

  • There are 4 odd positions in the arrangement (1, 3, 5, and 7).

  • We need to place 3 vowels (I, O, E) in 3 out of these 4 odd positions.

  • The number of ways to choose 3 positions out of 4 for the vowels is given by the combination formula (43)(43)(43)(43)

    .

  • (43)=4(43)=4(43)=4(43)=4

    ways to choose the positions for the vowels.

  • The number of ways to arrange the 3 vowels in these 3 positions is 3!=63!=63!=63!=6

    ways.

  • The number of ways to arrange the remaining 4 consonants (V, L, N, T) in the remaining 4 positions is 4!=244!=244!=244!=24

    ways.

  • Total number of favorable arrangements = ( 4 * 6 *24 = 576 ).

  • Total number of possible arrangements of the letters of the word 'VIOLENT' is ( 7! = 5040 ).

  • Probability that the vowels occupy odd positions only = 576/5040

  • Probability = 435\frac{4}{35}

Additional Information

  • This probability indicates that in a random arrangement of the letters, there is a 435435435435

    chance that the vowels will occupy only the odd positions.

  • Understanding the arrangement of vowels in specific positions can help in combinatorial problems and probability calculations in various contexts.

Question 60

A firm's production function is q = 12- 1LK\frac{1}{LK}(L + K). The prices of labour capital and outputs are Re 1 and Rs 4 respectively. Find the maximum profit.

  1. AOption (a)

    80

  2. BOption (b)

    45

  3. COption (c)

    90

  4. DOption (d)

    105

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

90

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is - 90

Key Points

  • Production Function
  • The production function provided is q = 12 - {(L + K) / LK}, where L represents labor, K represents capital, and q represents the output produced.
  • The goal is to maximize profit, where profit is given by the formula: Profit = Total Revenue - Total Cost.
  • Revenue and Cost Calculation
  • The price of output is Rs 4, so Total Revenue = 4 * q, where q is the output produced.
  • The price of labor (L) and capital (K) is Re 1 each. Therefore, the total cost is the sum of labor and capital, i.e., Total Cost = L + K.
  • Maximizing Profit
  • The next step is to derive the profit function by subtracting the Total Cost from the Total Revenue: Profit = 4 * q - (L + K).
  • After substituting q = 12 - {(L + K) / LK}, the objective is to find values for L and K that maximize profit.
  • Using optimization techniques such as partial differentiation with respect to L and K, and solving the resulting system of equations, we find that the maximum profit occurs when q = 90.

Question 61

For a regression through the origin, state which of these statement is not true? 

  1. AOption (a)

    The Σu^i{\Sigma}\hat{u}_i need not be equal to zero.

  2. BOption (b)

    The raw r2 computed satisfies 0 < r < 1 and is directly comparable to the conventionally complete.

  3. COption (c)

    In estimating the model, we use raw sum of squares and cross products.

  4. DOption (d)

    The conventionally computed r2 may give negative value.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

The raw r2 computed satisfies 0 < r < 1 and is directly comparable to the conventionally complete.

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'Option 2'.

Key Points

  • In a regression through the origin, the intercept term is constrained to be zero, meaning the line passes through the origin.

  • Option 1 is true because the need not be equal to zero in regression through the origin.

  • Option 2 is not true because the raw R2R2R2R2

    computed in regression through the origin is not directly comparable to the conventionally computed R2R2R2R2

    . The range of R2R2R2R2

    can be different, and it may not always satisfy 0<R2<10<R2<10<R2<10<R2<1

    .

  • Option 3 is true because in estimating the model, raw sum of squares and cross products are used.

  • Option 4 is true because the conventionally computed R2R2R2R2

    may give a negative value in the context of regression through the origin, which indicates a poor fit.

Additional Information

  • In regression analysis, the coefficient of determination R2R2R2R2

    measures the proportion of the variance in the dependent variable that is predictable from the independent variable(s).

  • For regression through the origin, special care must be taken when interpreting R2R2R2R2

    values, as the absence of an intercept term alters the computation and interpretation.

Question 62

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Inflation targetingI.Milton Friedman
B.Natural rate of employmentII.Kydland and Prescott
C.Time inconsistency problemIII.Robert Lucus Jr.
D.Rational ExpectationIV.J. B. Taylor

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - IV, B - I, C - II, D - III

  2. BOption (b)

    A - I, B - IV, C - II, D - III

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - II, C - III, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - II, B - III, C - IV, D - I

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A - IV, B - I, C - II, D - III

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - IV, B - I, C - II, D - III'.

Key Points

  • Inflation Targeting
  • John B. Taylor is known for the Taylor rule, which is a monetary policy guideline for managing interest rates and inflation targeting.
  • Inflation targeting involves central banks setting explicit target inflation rates and making policy decisions to achieve those targets (A - IV: J. B. Taylor).
  • Natural Rate of Employment
  • Milton Friedman introduced the concept of the natural rate of unemployment, which suggests that there is a specific level of unemployment that is inherent in an economy.
  • According to Friedman, attempts to reduce unemployment below this natural rate through monetary policy would only lead to higher inflation (B - I: Milton Friedman).
  • Time Inconsistency Problem
  • Finn Kydland and Edward Prescott introduced the concept of the time inconsistency problem in their work on rules rather than discretion in economic policy.
  • This problem arises when policymakers have an incentive to deviate from their previously announced policy plans to achieve short-term goals, which can lead to suboptimal long-term outcomes (C - II: Kydland and Prescott).
  • Rational Expectation
  • Robert Lucas Jr. is known for his development of the theory of rational expectations, which states that individuals form expectations about the future based on all available information and that these expectations influence economic outcomes.
  • This theory challenges the effectiveness of traditional Keynesian economic policies by suggesting that individuals will adjust their behavior to negate the effects of anticipated policy actions (D - III: Robert Lucas Jr.).

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - IV: Inflation Targeting - J. B. Taylor

B - I: Natural Rate of Employment - Milton Friedman

C - II: Time Inconsistency Problem - Kydland and Prescott

D - III: Rational Expectation - Robert Lucas Jr.

Question 63

In the two variable regression model, where the number of observation is 13, the variance of error term is 0.89 and TSS is 105.1188. Find the coefficient of determination (r2).

  1. AOption (a)

    0.9521 

  2. BOption (b)

    0.9065

  3. COption (c)

    0.8681

  4. DOption (d)

    0.9345

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

0.9065

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is '0.9065'.

Key Points

  • In the two-variable regression model, the coefficient of determination (R²) is a measure of the proportion of the variance in the dependent variable that is predictable from the independent variable.
  • The formula to calculate R² is:

R² = 1 - (SSR/TSS)

  • Where SSR is the sum of squared residuals, and TSS is the total sum of squares.
  • Given data:
  • Number of observations (n) = 13
  • Variance of error term (σ²) = 0.89
  • TSS = 105.1188
  • First, calculate SSR:

SSR = (n - 2) * σ²

SSR = (13 - 2) * 0.89

SSR = 11 * 0.89

SSR = 9.79

  • Next, calculate R²:

R² = 1 - (SSR/TSS)

R² = 1 - (9.79/105.1188)

R² = 1 - 0.0931

R² ≈ 0.9069

Additional Information

  • The coefficient of determination (R²) indicates how well data points fit a statistical model – an R² value of 0.9069 means that approximately 90.69% of the variance in the dependent variable is predictable from the independent variable.
  • High R² values generally indicate a better fit for the model, but it is important to also consider other factors like the context of the data and the underlying assumptions of the regression analysis.

Question 64

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Specific Factor ModelI.Staffan B. Linder
B.Product life cycle hypothsisII.Stolper-Samuelson theorem
C.Preference similarity hypothesisIII.Raymond Vernon
D.Price magnification effectIV.Paul Samuelson and Ronald Jones

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - IV, B - III, C - II, D - I

  2. BOption (b)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  3. COption (c)

    A - III, B - IV, C - II, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - II, C - I, D - IV

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II'.

Key Points

  • Specific Factor Model
  • The Specific Factor Model, also known as the Ricardo-Viner model, was developed by Paul Samuelson and Ronald Jones.
  • This model analyzes the short-term effects of international trade on the distribution of income, considering factors that are immobile between industries (A - IV: Paul Samuelson and Ronald Jones).
  • Product Life Cycle Hypothesis
  • Raymond Vernon introduced the Product Life Cycle Hypothesis, which describes the stages a product goes through from introduction to decline in the market.
  • According to this hypothesis, a product's location of production shifts internationally as it moves through its life cycle stages (B - III: Raymond Vernon).
  • Preference Similarity Hypothesis
  • Staffan B. Linder proposed the Preference Similarity Hypothesis, which suggests that countries with similar preferences and income levels are more likely to trade with each other.
  • This hypothesis is used to explain patterns of international trade in differentiated products (C - I: Staffan B. Linder).
  • Price Magnification Effect
  • The Price Magnification Effect is related to the Stolper-Samuelson theorem, which explains how trade affects the prices of factors of production.
  • According to this theorem, trade liberalization magnifies the effect of price changes of goods on the prices of factors of production (D - II: Stolper-Samuelson theorem).

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - IV: Specific Factor Model - Paul Samuelson and Ronald Jones

B - III: Product Life Cycle Hypothesis - Raymond Vernon

C - I: Preference Similarity Hypothesis - Staffan B. Linder

D - II: Price Magnification Effect - Stolper-Samuelson theorem

Question 65

Arrange the following states with respect to estimates of yield of coarse cereals (kg per hectare) in the year 2021-22, in ascending order:

A. Bihar

B. Punjab

C. Tamil Nadu

D. Assam

E. Gujarat

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, C, E, B, A

  2. BOption (b)

    E, D, C, B, A

  3. COption (c)

    D, C, B, E, A

  4. DOption (d)

    E, C, D, A, B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

D, C, E, B, A

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, C, E, B, A"

Key Points

  • Yield of Coarse Cereals:
  • Coarse cereals include grains like barley, sorghum, millet, and oats, which are known for their hardiness and ability to grow in less fertile soils.
  • Yield refers to the amount of cereal produced per unit area, typically measured in kilograms per hectare (kg/ha).
  • State-wise Yield Estimates for 2021-22:
  • Assam (D):
  • Assam had one of the lower yields for coarse cereals.
  • Estimated yield: 1,121 kg/ha.
  • Tamil Nadu (C):
  • Tamil Nadu had a moderate yield for coarse cereals.
  • Estimated yield: 1,539 kg/ha.
  • Gujarat (E):
  • Gujarat had relatively better yield due to advanced agricultural practices and irrigation facilities.
  • Estimated yield: 1,789 kg/ha.
  • Punjab (B):
  • Punjab is known for high agricultural productivity, including coarse cereals, due to well-established irrigation and farming techniques.
  • Estimated yield: 2,022 kg/ha.
  • Bihar (A):
  • Bihar had the highest yield for coarse cereals among the states listed.
  • Estimated yield: 2,235 kg/ha.

Additional Information

  • Factors Influencing Yield:
  • Climate: Weather conditions greatly impact crop yield; optimal temperature and rainfall are crucial.
  • Soil Fertility: Nutrient-rich soil enhances plant growth and cereal yield.
  • Agricultural Practices: Modern techniques and proper irrigation systems lead to higher yields.
  • Government Policies: Subsidies, minimum support prices, and other agricultural policies can encourage higher production.
  • Implications of Yield Data:
  • Yield data helps in planning and optimizing agricultural practices.
  • It assists in predicting food security and planning for future needs.
  • Higher yields can improve farmer incomes and contribute to economic growth.
  • Sources:
  • Directorate of Economics and Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India. (https://www.desagri.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Agricultural-Statistics-at-a-Glance-2022.pdf)
  • RBI Publications. (https://rbidocs.rbi.org.in/rdocs/Publications/PDFs/84T_15112023A5998364CB15444F920D52B85A18B98B.PDF)

Question 66

Arrange the following rounds of tariff negotiations of GATT sequentially (oldest being the first):

A. Dillon Round

B. Torquay Round

C. Tokyo Round

D. Geneva Round

E. Kennedy Round

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, B, E, A, C

  2. BOption (b)

    B, D, C, A, E

  3. COption (c)

    D, B, A, E,C

  4. DOption (d)

    B, D, A, C, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

D, B, A, E,C

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, B, A, E, C"

Key Points

  • Geneva Round (D):
  • The Geneva Round was the first round of tariff negotiations under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) held in 1947.
  • It resulted in 45,000 tariff concessions affecting $10 billion in trade, laying the foundation for GATT's role in promoting free trade.
  • Torquay Round (B):
  • The Torquay Round took place in 1950-51 and was the third round of GATT negotiations.
  • It resulted in about 8,700 tariff concessions and further reductions in trade barriers among participating countries.
  • Dillon Round (A):
  • The Dillon Round occurred from 1960 to 1962 and was named after the then US Secretary of the Treasury, Douglas Dillon.
  • This round primarily focused on tariff reductions and marked the first negotiations after the formation of the European Economic Community (EEC).
  • Kennedy Round (E):
  • The Kennedy Round took place from 1964 to 1967, named after US President John F. Kennedy.
  • This round was significant for its major tariff reductions and the negotiation of the first GATT anti-dumping agreement.
  • Tokyo Round (C):
  • The Tokyo Round was conducted between 1973 and 1979.
  • It addressed not only tariff reductions but also non-tariff barriers and was notable for the introduction of a series of agreements aimed at improving the international trade framework.

Additional Information

  • General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT):
  • Established in 1947 to promote international trade by reducing or eliminating trade barriers such as tariffs and quotas.
  • GATT provided a forum for member countries to negotiate trade agreements and settle trade disputes.
  • It was replaced by the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 1995.
  • Significance of Rounds:
  • Each round of negotiations under GATT aimed to progressively reduce tariffs and other trade barriers.
  • These negotiations contributed to significant growth in global trade and economic integration.
  • Legacy of GATT:
  • The principles and agreements established under GATT continue to influence global trade policies and practices.
  • The WTO, as GATT's successor, carries forward the mission of promoting free and fair trade on a global scale$.

Question 67

Arrange the following environment meet according to their years of occurrences (oldest being first):

A. The Paris Agreement (COP 21)

B. Stockholm + 50

C. Earth Summit

D. United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm

E.  Rio + 20

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, C, A, B, E

  2. BOption (b)

    D, C, E, A, B

  3. COption (c)

    C, D, A, B, E

  4. DOption (d)

    C, D, B, A, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

D, C, E, A, B

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, C, E, A, B"

Key Points

  • United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm (D):
  • Held in 1972, it was the first major international meeting on the environment, often referred to as the Stockholm Conference.
  • It resulted in the Stockholm Declaration, which laid down principles for global environmental management and stewardship.
  • The conference also led to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
  • Earth Summit (C):
  • Also known as the Rio Summit, it took place in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
  • It was the largest environmental conference ever held, resulting in key documents like Agenda 21, the Rio Declaration, and the establishment of the Commission on Sustainable Development.
  • It also led to the adoption of important treaties such as the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Framework Convention on Climate Change.
  • Rio+20 (E):
  • Formally known as the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, it was held in 2012, twenty years after the Earth Summit.
  • The conference aimed to secure renewed political commitment for sustainable development and to assess the progress made since the 1992 Earth Summit.
  • It resulted in a non-binding document called "The Future We Want," which outlined a vision for sustainable development.
  • The Paris Agreement (COP 21) (A):
  • Adopted in 2015 during the 21st Conference of the Parties (COP 21) to the UNFCCC in Paris, France.
  • The agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with efforts to limit the increase to 1.5°C.
  • It is a landmark accord bringing all nations into a common cause to undertake ambitious efforts to combat climate change.
  • Stockholm + 50 (B):
  • Held in 2022, marking the 50th anniversary of the 1972 Stockholm Conference.
  • The meeting aimed to reflect on the progress made over the past 50 years and to renew the global commitment to environmental sustainability.
  • It focused on accelerating the implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development.

Additional Information

  • Impact of Environmental Conferences:
  • These conferences have played a crucial role in shaping international environmental policy and raising awareness about global environmental issues.
  • They have led to the establishment of key environmental treaties, frameworks, and organizations that continue to guide global efforts in environmental protection and sustainable development.
  • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP):
  • Created following the Stockholm Conference in 1972, UNEP is responsible for coordinating responses to environmental issues within the United Nations system.
  • It provides leadership and encourages partnerships in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

Question 68

Arrange the following Nobel Laureates according to their year of Award (latest being the first):

A. Sir Arthur Lewis

B. Simon Kuznet

C. Douglas C. North

D. Claudia Goldin

E. Ronald Coase

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, E, C, A, B

  2. BOption (b)

    D, E, C, B, A

  3. COption (c)

    D, C, E, A, B

  4. DOption (d)

    D, C, E, B, A

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

D, C, E, A, B

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, C, E, A, B"

Key Points

  • Claudia Goldin (D):
  • Claudia Goldin was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 2023.
  • She was recognized for her research on women's labor market outcomes and gender wage gaps.
  • Douglas C. North (C):
  • Douglas C. North was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1993.
  • He was recognized for his work in economic history and the role of institutions in economic development.
  • Ronald Coase (E):
  • Ronald Coase was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1991.
  • He was recognized for his work on transaction costs and property rights, which laid the foundation for the field of law and economics.
  • Sir Arthur Lewis (A):
  • Sir Arthur Lewis was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979.
  • He was recognized for his contributions to development economics, particularly his work on economic development with unlimited supplies of labor.
  • Simon Kuznets (B):
  • Simon Kuznets was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1971.
  • He was recognized for his work on economic growth and the development of the concept of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Additional Information

  • Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences:
  • The Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, officially known as the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences in Memory of Alfred Nobel, was established in 1968 by the central bank of Sweden.
  • The prize is awarded annually for outstanding contributions to the field of economics, including theoretical and applied research.
  • Significance of Laureates' Work:
  • The work of these laureates has significantly influenced economic thought, policy, and practice, contributing to our understanding of economic processes and the development of effective economic policies.
  • Their contributions span various fields within economics, including development economics, economic history, institutional economics, and labor economics.

Question 69

If the marginal propensity to import is high, then which of the following will be true?

A. The IS curve is steeper

B. It will create currency appreciation

C. It will make the LM curve flatter

D. For each level of income, the interest rate must be high to achieve external balance

E. For each level of interest rate, higher income will be generated to achieve BOP equation

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A and D only

  2. BOption (b)

    A and B only

  3. COption (c)

    A, B, C and D only

  4. DOption (d)

    A, D and E only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A and D only

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "A and D only"

Key Points

  • The IS Curve and Marginal Propensity to Import (A):
  • The IS curve represents the relationship between the interest rate and the level of income that brings the goods market into equilibrium.
  • A higher marginal propensity to import means that a higher proportion of additional income is spent on imports rather than domestic goods.
  • This reduces the multiplier effect of increased income on domestic output, making the IS curve steeper because larger changes in the interest rate are needed to offset smaller changes in income.
  • Interest Rate and External Balance (D):
  • External balance refers to a situation where the current account of the balance of payments is in equilibrium.
  • When the marginal propensity to import is high, any increase in income leads to a significant rise in imports, potentially creating a trade deficit.
  • To achieve external balance, higher interest rates may be necessary to reduce income and, consequently, imports.
  • This means for each level of income, the interest rate must be high to ensure the external balance is maintained.

Additional Information

  • Marginal Propensity to Import (MPI):
  • The marginal propensity to import is the fraction of additional income that is spent on imports.
  • It plays a crucial role in open economy macroeconomics, affecting the trade balance and the effectiveness of fiscal policy.
  • Impact on Currency and BOP:
  • A high MPI can lead to a depreciation of the domestic currency if imports consistently exceed exports, worsening the trade balance.
  • The balance of payments (BOP) equation includes the current account (trade balance) and the capital account, and achieving balance requires adjustments in income and interest rates.
  • IS-LM Model:
  • The IS-LM model combines the goods market (IS curve) and the money market (LM curve) to illustrate equilibrium in the overall economy.
  • Changes in the marginal propensity to import directly affect the slope of the IS curve but not the LM curve, which is determined by money demand and supply.

Question 70

Which of the following is not a features of the Coase Theorem? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Everyone has perfect information

  2. BOption (b)

    Costless transaction

  3. COption (c)

    Producers maximizes profit and consumers maximizes utility 

  4. DOption (d)

    There exists wealth/income effects

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

There exists wealth/income effects

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' There exists wealth/income effects'.

Key Points

  • The Coase Theorem primarily addresses the economic efficiency achievable through negotiations between parties when there are clearly defined property rights, and transaction costs are absent.
  • It assumes conditions such as perfect information and costless transactions to facilitate the optimal allocation of resources, regardless of the initial distribution of property rights.
  • The theorem also presumes that individuals (producers and consumers) act rationally, with producers aiming to maximize profits and consumers seeking to maximize utility.
  • However, the assumption of 'There exists wealth/income effects' does not align with the Coase Theorem's core premises. The theorem typically abstracts from wealth or income effects to focus solely on the efficiency of resource allocation through bargaining.
  • Considering wealth or income effects would imply changes in behavior or choices due to changes in wealth or income, which are externalities not directly accounted for in the theorem's basic assumptions.

Additional Information

  • The core idea of the Coase Theorem is to illustrate that with zero transaction costs and clear property rights, parties can negotiate to correct externalities and achieve socially optimal solutions.
  • It is a theoretical construct and its real-world application often encounters challenges such as imperfect information, transaction costs, and indeed, wealth and income effects, which complicate the straightforward negotiation solutions proposed by Coase.

Question 71

There are several reasons why serial correlation occurs. The reason which does not cause serial correlation is: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Most time-series data exhibit business cycles

  2. BOption (b)

    Researchers may have excluded some important variable from the regression

  3. COption (c)

    Some variables react with a lag

  4. DOption (d)

    Large variation in the observed explanatory variables

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Large variation in the observed explanatory variables

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is ' Large variation in the observed explanatory variables'.

Key Points

  • Serial correlation (or autocorrelation) occurs when error terms in a regression model are correlated across observations, often seen in time series data.
  • Common causes include the presence of business cycles, which can create patterns in the data that persist over time, leading to serial correlation as similar conditions are repeatedly observed in the series.
  • Omitting key variables from a regression model can also lead to serial correlation. If an omitted variable influences the dependent variable and is itself autocorrelated, it can induce autocorrelation in the residuals.
  • Lag effects, where variables react with a time lag, can also be a source of serial correlation, especially if the model does not adequately account for these lags, causing the error terms to be correlated with one another over successive periods.
  • However, 'Large variation in the observed explanatory variables' does not typically cause serial correlation. Large variations in explanatory variables are more related to the heteroscedasticity of the model rather than autocorrelation. Heteroscedasticity refers to situations where the variance of the residuals varies across observations, which is a different issue from serial correlation.

Additional Information

  • While serial correlation often complicates the interpretation and reliability of regression models, especially in forecasting scenarios, addressing it might involve using advanced techniques like ARIMA models for time series analysis.
  • Identifying and correcting for serial correlation is crucial for ensuring the validity and accuracy of the model's inferences.

Question 72

Which of the following, correctly depicts the intra industry trade index (T)?  

  1. AOption (a)

    T=1−X−M∣X+M∣ T=1-\frac{X-M}{|X+M|}

  2. BOption (b)

    T=1−∣X−M∣X+M T=1-\frac{|X-M|}{X+M}

  3. COption (c)

    T=1−∣X+M∣X−M T=1-\frac{|X+M|}{X-M}

  4. DOption (d)

    T=1−X+M∣X−M∣ T=1-\frac{X+M}{|X-M|}

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

T=1−∣X−M∣X+M T=1-\frac{|X-M|}{X+M}

Why this answer is correct

The correct expression for the intra-industry trade index (T) is 'T=1−∣X−M∣X+M T=1-\frac{|X-M|}{X+M}  '.

Key Points

  • The intra-industry trade index (T), also known as the Grubel-Lloyd index, is used to measure the extent of intra-industry trade between countries.

  • The formula, T=1−∣X−M∣X+M T=1-\frac{|X-M|}{X+M} , where XXX

    is the export value and MMM

    is the import value of the same industry, quantifies the relative importance of intra-industry trade in the total trade activity of a given industry.

  • The index ranges from 0 to 1, where:

  • A value of 0 indicates no intra-industry trade, meaning all trade is inter-industry or there is complete specialization.

  • A value of 1 suggests complete intra-industry trade, where exports and imports are perfectly balanced within the same industry, indicating no net trade but rather equal exchange of different varieties or similar goods.

  • The subtraction of the absolute value of the difference between exports and imports from the sum of exports and imports, normalized by the same sum, reflects the share of trade that is not balanced by trade in the opposite direction within the same industry.

Additional Information

  • Intra-industry trade suggests higher levels of economic integration and interdependence between countries, and is often associated with advanced economies with similar demand structures.
  • This form of trade is prevalent in industries such as automobiles, electronics, and machinery, where countries often exchange similar products of different qualities, designs, or technological levels.

Question 73

Which of the following properties is satisfied in case of "fishing in an ocean"? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Non-excludable and non-rival

  2. BOption (b)

    Non-excludable but rival

  3. COption (c)

    Non-rival but excludable

  4. DOption (d)

    Excludable and rival

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Non-excludable but rival

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Non-excludable but rival'

Key Points

  • Non-excludable but rival:
  • Fishing in an ocean is non-excludable because it is not feasible to prevent individuals from accessing and fishing in the ocean. The vastness and openness of the ocean make it impossible to restrict access to any specific group of people.
  • Fishing in an ocean is rival because the fish caught by one person cannot be caught by another. The resource is finite, and overfishing by one individual or group can deplete the availability of fish for others.

Additional Information

  • Non-excludable and non-rival:
  • These resources are available to all and consumption by one individual does not reduce availability to others. Examples include public goods like clean air and national defense.
  • Non-rival but excludable:
  • These resources can be restricted in access but their consumption by one person does not affect others. An example is a subscription to a streaming service.
  • Excludable and rival:
  • These resources are both limited in access and consumption by one person reduces availability to others. Examples include private goods like food and clothing.
  • Common-Pool Resources:
  • Common-pool resources, such as fisheries, groundwater basins, and forests, are typically non-excludable but rival. Effective management is essential to prevent overuse and depletion.
  • Management Strategies:
  • Strategies for managing common-pool resources include regulations, community management, and cooperative agreements to ensure sustainable use and prevent depletion.

Question 74

Which of the following strategies can never be used in a Nash Equilibrium? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Dominant strategy

  2. BOption (b)

    Strongly dominated strategy 

  3. COption (c)

    Weakly dominated strategy

  4. DOption (d)

    None of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Strongly dominated strategy 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Strongly dominated strategy'

Key Points

  • Strongly Dominated Strategy:
  • A strongly dominated strategy is one that is always worse than another strategy, regardless of what the other players do. Because it is never a best response, it cannot be part of a Nash Equilibrium.
  • In a Nash Equilibrium, each player's strategy must be a best response to the strategies chosen by the other players. Since a strongly dominated strategy is never the best response, it is never used in a Nash Equilibrium.

Additional Information

  • Dominant Strategy:
  • A dominant strategy is one that is the best response for a player regardless of what the other players do. If a player has a dominant strategy, it will always be used in a Nash Equilibrium.
  • Weakly Dominated Strategy:
  • A weakly dominated strategy is one that is sometimes worse and never better than another strategy. While it is generally not part of a Nash Equilibrium, there are cases where weakly dominated strategies might be used.
  • Nash Equilibrium:
  • A Nash Equilibrium occurs when each player's strategy is a best response to the strategies chosen by the other players. No player can benefit by unilaterally changing their strategy.
  • In a Nash Equilibrium, players are making the best decisions they can, taking into account the decisions of the others.
  • Strategies in Nash Equilibrium:
  • In a Nash Equilibrium, the strategies chosen are stable in the sense that no player has an incentive to deviate.
  • The concept is widely used in economics and game theory to predict the outcome of strategic interactions.

Question 75

Which of the following are true in case of Solow model?

A. Saving is determined endogenously

B. Population grows at constant rate

C. There is constant returns to scale

D Saving ratio is constant

E. Entrepreneurs invest for the new ideas

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B, C and D only

  2. BOption (b)

    A, B and Conly

  3. COption (c)

    C, D and E only

  4. DOption (d)

    D, E and A only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B, C and D only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: B, C, and D only.

Key Points

  • Solow Model Overview
  • The Solow growth model, developed by Robert Solow, is a neoclassical model of economic growth.
  • It focuses on long-term economic growth driven by capital accumulation, labor or population growth, and technological progress.
  • The model assumes a production function with inputs of capital and labor, typically exhibiting constant returns to scale.
  • Population Growth
  • The model assumes that the population (or labor force) grows at a constant rate.
  • This constant growth rate of population is crucial for analyzing steady-state equilibrium in the model.
  • Constant Returns to Scale
  • The production function in the Solow model exhibits constant returns to scale.
  • This means that if all inputs (capital and labor) are increased by a certain proportion, output will increase by that same proportion.
  • Saving Ratio
  • In the Solow model, the saving ratio is constant and exogenously determined.
  • This constant saving rate means that a fixed proportion of output is saved and invested in new capital.

Additional Information

  • Endogenous vs. Exogenous Variables
  • In the Solow model, the saving rate is exogenous, meaning it is determined outside the model rather than being influenced by the model's dynamics.
  • The model contrasts with endogenous growth theories where variables like the saving rate and technological progress are determined within the model.
  • Role of Technological Progress
  • Technological progress is an exogenous factor in the Solow model, which drives long-term growth.
  • Improvements in technology increase the productivity of both capital and labor, leading to higher output levels.
  • Implications of the Solow Model
  • The model provides insights into the impact of saving rates, population growth, and technological progress on economic growth.
  • It suggests that differences in these factors can explain variations in growth rates and income levels across countries.

Question 76

Arrange the books according to the year of publication (starting from the oldest):

A. The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money

B. The Theory of Moral Sentiments

C. Principles of Political Economy and Taxation

D. An Essay on the principle of population

E. Das Kapital

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, B, C, E, A

  2. BOption (b)

    A, B, C, D, E

  3. COption (c)

    B, D, C, E, A

  4. DOption (d)

    B, A, E, C, D

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

B, D, C, E, A

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: B, D, C, E, A.

Key Points

  • The Theory of Moral Sentiments
  • Written by Adam Smith and published in 1759.
  • Explores the foundation of human ethics and introduces the concept of the 'invisible hand,' which is pivotal to his later work on economics.
  • Highlights the role of sympathy in moral judgments.
  • An Essay on the Principle of Population
  • Authored by Thomas Malthus, first published in 1798.
  • Discusses the implications of population growth and its potential to outpace agricultural production, leading to societal issues.
  • Introduces the Malthusian theory of population dynamics.
  • Principles of Political Economy and Taxation
  • Written by David Ricardo, published in 1817.
  • Focuses on the theories of rent, wages, and profits, and introduces the concept of comparative advantage in trade.
  • Significant influence on the development of classical economics.
  • Das Kapital
  • Written by Karl Marx, with the first volume published in 1867.
  • Examines the capitalist system, its development, and its inherent contradictions, laying the foundation for Marxist economic theory.
  • Critiques the exploitation of labor and the dynamics of capital accumulation.
  • The General Theory of Employment, Interest and Money
  • Authored by John Maynard Keynes, published in 1936.
  • Revolutionized economic thought by challenging classical economics and introducing concepts that underpin modern macroeconomics.
  • Focuses on the causes of prolonged unemployment and advocates for government intervention to stabilize the economy.

Additional Information

  • Impact on Economic Thought:
  • These seminal works have profoundly influenced the fields of economics, political economy, and social sciences.
  • They have introduced foundational concepts that continue to shape contemporary economic policies and theories.
  • Contextual Significance:
  • Each book was written in response to the economic and social conditions of its time, providing insights into historical economic challenges and debates.
  • Their enduring relevance is reflected in ongoing discussions about economic systems, policies, and societal welfare.

Question 77

Match List - I with List - II.

List - I Name of the Financial InstitutionList - II Year of Establishment
A.IFCII.1982
B.IRBIII.1948
C.NABARDIII.1971
D.ICICIIV.1955

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  2. BOption (b)

    A - II, B - I, C - III, D - IV

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - II, C - III, D - I

  4. DOption (d)

    A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

This question involves matching the financial institutions with their respective years of establishment. Understanding the historical context and founding years of these institutions is important for various competitive exams and for a general understanding of the financial sector in India.

Key Points

  • Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI):
  • Established in 1948, IFCI was the first development finance institution in India aimed at providing long-term finance to the industrial sector.
  • Industrial Reconstruction Bank of India (IRBI):
  • IRBI was established in 1971. It was later restructured and renamed as Industrial Investment Bank of India (IIBI).
  • National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD):
  • NABARD was established in 1982 to promote sustainable agriculture and rural development through innovative financial interventions.
  • Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI):
  • ICICI was established in 1955 as a development financial institution to provide medium and long-term project financing to Indian businesses.

Additional Information

  • Historical Significance:
  • The establishment of these institutions marked significant milestones in the economic development and financial sector reforms in India.
  • Role in Development:
  • These institutions played crucial roles in providing necessary funding and financial services to different sectors of the economy, promoting industrial growth and rural development.
  • Evolution of Financial Institutions:
  • Over the years, many of these institutions have evolved or merged with other entities to adapt to the changing financial landscape and meet the growing needs of the economy.

Question 78

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.Coincident regressionI.Only the intercept in the two regressions are different but the slopes
are the same
B.Parallel regressionII.Both the intercepts and slopes in two regressions are different
C.Concurrent regressionIII.Both the intercepts and slope coefficients are the same in the two regression
D.Dissimilar regressionIV.The intercepts in the two regressions are same, but the slopes are
different

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - III, B - IV, C - I, D - II

  2. BOption (b)

    A - I, B - II, C - IV, D - III

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - I, C - III, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II'.

Key Points

  • Coincident regression implies that both the intercepts and slope coefficients are the same in the two regression models.
  • This type of regression indicates a perfect alignment between the two datasets, suggesting no change in the relationship over different data sets or time periods.
  • Parallel regression occurs when only the intercepts in the two regressions are different but the slopes are the same.
  • Parallel regressions suggest that while the starting point (intercept) of the relationship may differ across groups or over time, the rate of change (slope) remains constant.
  • Concurrent regression is characterized by the same intercepts but different slopes between the two regressions.
  • This indicates that although the initial condition (intercept) is the same for both datasets, the relationship changes at different rates (slopes).
  • Dissimilar regression means that both the intercepts and slopes in the two regressions are different.
  • In this scenario, the regressions show completely different relationships, indicating variations in both starting points and rates of change across datasets or groups.

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - III: Coincident regression - Both the intercepts and slope coefficients are the same

B - I: Parallel regression - Only the intercepts are different but the slopes are the same

C - IV: Concurrent regression - The intercepts are the same, but the slopes are different

D - II: Dissimilar regression - Both intercepts and slopes are different

Question 79

Arrange the following environmental movements according to the years of occurrences (oldest being the first):

A. Narmada Bachao Andolan

B. Chipko Movement

C. Save Western Ghats Movement

D. Global Climate Strikes

E. Appiko Movement

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B, E, A, C, D

  2. BOption (b)

    B, E, C, A, D

  3. COption (c)

    E, B, A, C, D

  4. DOption (d)

    E, B, A, D, C

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B, E, A, C, D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: 2) B, E, A, C, D.

Key PointsTo arrange the environmental movements in chronological order, we need to identify the year each movement started:

  1. Chipko Movement: Began in 1973 in Uttarakhand, India, as a forest conservation movement.
  2. Appiko Movement: Started in 1983 in Karnataka, India, inspired by the Chipko Movement, aimed at saving trees in the Western Ghats.
  3. Narmada Bachao Andolan: Initiated in 1985 to protest against the construction of large dams on the Narmada River, which displaced many people.
  4. Save Western Ghats Movement: Began in the mid-1980s (around 1987), focusing on the conservation of the Western Ghats region.
  5. Global Climate Strikes: These are a series of international strikes and protests started by school students in 2018, inspired by Greta Thunberg's Fridays for Future movement.

Based on the years of occurrences:

  • Chipko Movement (1973)
  • Appiko Movement (1983)
  • Narmada Bachao Andolan (1985)
  • Save Western Ghats Movement (1987)
  • Global Climate Strikes (2018)

Question 80

Match List - I with List - II.

List - IList - II
A.DevaluationI.Flexible exchange rate
B.Immisering GrowthII.Increase in export competitiveness
C.Automatic BOP AdjustmentIII.Heavily export based growth
D.Perfect Capital MobilityIV.Domestic interest rate pegged at world rate of Interest

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - II, B - I, C - III, D - IV

  2. BOption (b)

    A - II, B - I, C - IV, D - III

  3. COption (c)

    A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - II, B - III, C - I, D - IV'.

Key Points

  • Devaluation
  • Devaluation refers to a deliberate downward adjustment of the value of a country's money relative to another currency, group of currencies, or standard.
  • This policy action is often undertaken by governments to correct a trade imbalance, making exports cheaper and more competitive internationally, hence it is directly linked to an increase in export competitiveness.
  • Immisering Growth
  • Immisering growth is a theoretical situation where economic growth could result in a country being worse off than before the growth if the growth exacerbates income disparities or leads to unfavorable conditions like environmental degradation.
  • This concept typically relates to heavily export-based growth strategies that might not benefit the population at large but instead favor certain sectors, hence it aligns with heavily export based growth.
  • Automatic BOP Adjustment
  • Automatic Balance of Payments (BOP) adjustment is a theory in international economics that states exchange rates will automatically adjust to correct any disequilibrium in the balance of payments.
  • It is often associated with a flexible exchange rate system where the currency's value fluctuates in response to the foreign-exchange market.
  • Perfect Capital Mobility
  • Perfect capital mobility refers to a situation where funds can move easily across borders without being subjected to any restrictions by governments, resulting in the equalization of interest rates internationally.
  • In such scenarios, domestic interest rates are effectively pegged at the world rate of interest, matching the description of domestic interest rate pegged at world rate of interest.

Therefore the correct pairing is:

A - II: Devaluation - Increase in export competitiveness

B - III: Immisering Growth - Heavily export based growth

C - I: Automatic BOP Adjustment - Flexible exchange rate

D - IV: Perfect Capital Mobility - Domestic interest rate pegged at world rate of interest

Question 81

If the cost and demand functions of the firm are given respectively as

C = 1064 + 5x + x225\frac{x^2}{25} and

P = 157 - 3x, then sale of output at which profit would be maximum is:

  1. AOption (a)

    157

  2. BOption (b)

    3

  3. COption (c)

    25

  4. DOption (d)

    5

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

25

Why this answer is correct

To find the sales output at which the profit is maximized, we can start by calculating the profit function. Profit (

π\piπ) is defined as the difference between total revenue (TR) and total cost (TC).

Given the cost function C(x)=1064+5x+x225C(x)=1064+5x+x225 C(x) = 1064 + 5x +x225+ \frac{x^2}{25}

and the price function P(x)=157−3xP(x)=157−3x P(x) = 157 - 3x

, the total revenue (TR) function, which is price times quantity, is: TR(x)=P(x)×x=(157−3x)×x=157x−3x2TR(x)=P(x)×x=(157−3x)×x=157x−3x2

Now, the profit function π(x)π(x) π(x)\pi(x)

π(x) is: π(x)=TR(x)−C(x)=(157x−3x2)−(1064+5x+x225)π(x)=TR(x)−C(x)=(157x−3x2)−(1064+5x+x225) π(x)=\pi(x) = TR(x) - C(x) = (157x - 3x^2) - (1064 + 5x +x225)+ \frac{x^2}{25})

 π(x)=157x−3x2−1064−5x−x225π(x)=157x−3x2−1064−5x−x225 π(x)=157x−3x2−1064−5x−x225\pi(x) = 157x - 3x^2 - 1064 - 5x - \frac{x^2}{25}

​

To simplify: π(x)=152x−3x2−x225−1064π(x)=152x−3x2−x225−1064 π(x)=152x−3x2−x225−1064\pi(x) = 152x - 3x^2 - \frac{x^2}{25} - 1064

π(x)=152x−3x2−25x2​−1064

To maximize profit, we find the derivative of π(x)π(x) π(x)\pi(x)

 with respect to xx x

 and set it to zero: dπdx=152−152x25dπdx=152−152x25 dπdx=152−152x25\frac{d\pi}{dx} = 152 - \frac{152x}{25}

 

Solving we get x=25x=25 x = 25

Therefore, the sale of output at which profit would be maximum is x=25x=25 x = 25

Question 82

A stocastic process whose mean, variance and auto covariance are constant over time is known as: 

  1. AOption (a)

     Trend stationary

  2. BOption (b)

    Difference stationary.

  3. COption (c)

    Weakly stationary

  4. DOption (d)

    Strictly stationary

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Weakly stationary

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Weakly stationary'

Key Points

  • Weakly Stationary:
  • A stochastic process is considered weakly stationary (or wide-sense stationary) if its mean and autocovariance do not change over time, and are independent of the time at which they are measured.
  • This type of stationarity requires the mean and autocovariance to be constant but does not require the distributions of the process at different times to be identical, which is a less stringent condition than strict stationarity.
  • It is often used in time series analysis to make certain statistical analyses more feasible, particularly when dealing with predictions and modeling.

Additional Information

  • Trend Stationary:
  • A trend stationary process has a deterministic trend (which can be linear or another functional form). Once this trend is removed, the resulting time series is stationary in terms of mean and variance.
  • This implies that the effects of shocks to the system will eventually dissipate over time, returning the series to its trend path.
  • Difference Stationary:
  • This process becomes stationary if it is differenced a certain number of times. Such a series has a unit root, meaning shocks to the system can have a permanent effect on the level of the series.
  • Strictly Stationary:
  • A strictly stationary process maintains that the statistical properties of the process, like the joint distribution of any subset of variables, are not affected by time shifts. This is a more rigorous form than weak stationarity and is less commonly applicable in practical scenarios due to its stringent conditions.

Important Points

  • Understanding the type of stationarity in a time series is crucial for selecting the right models and methods for analysis, prediction, and intervention.
  • For example, using an ARIMA model requires the series to be at least weakly stationary or made stationary through transformations such as differencing.

Read the following passage and answer the questions. 

The global economy is currently facing a phase of slow down, with real GDP growth either slowing down or experiencing slight contractions across different regions. Despite some improvements in business activities, external demand remains subdued due to the specific challenges within individual countries, including issues in the property sector and the increasing public debt. Although labour markets exhibit resilience, there are signs of easing, especially in wage growth, coupled with rising unemployment rates in certain emerging market economies. Nonetheless, there is a positive trajectory in labour productivity and business formation, attributed to enhanced labour mobility and advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Despite central banks postponing expected rate cuts, government bond yields have risen from previous lows. However, bond prices still reflect a cautious stance compared to central bank evaluations, amidst concerns regarding potential volatility in bond markets compounded by escalating public debt levels.

Conversely, India has withnessed favorable economic growth, marked by a six-quarter high in real GDP expansion. This growth is propelled by buoyant demand conditions and increased investment, even though private consumption expenditure remains relatively subdued. The manufacturing sector has seen robust double-digit growth, while construction actively remains vigorous. Nevertheless, adverse weather conditions have led to a contraction in agricultural output. India's financial markets are thriving, with stocks enjoying a bull market and the currency strengthening. Further more, the country has made significant strides in reducing extreme poverty.

Question 83

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What has led to the positive economic growth in India? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Decreased investment

  2. BOption (b)

    Subdued demand conditions

  3. COption (c)

    Robust growth in the manufacturing sector

  4. DOption (d)

    Rising private consumption expenditure 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Robust growth in the manufacturing sector

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is robust growth in the manufacturing sector.

Key Points Positive economic growth in India has been driven by robust growth in the manufacturing sector, along with buoyant demand conditions and increased investment. Despite relatively subdued private consumption expenditure, the manufacturing sector's strong double-digit growth has been a key factor in India's favorable economic performance.

Question 84

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What challenge has contributed to subdued external demand in the global economy? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Strong demand conditions

  2. BOption (b)

    Issues in the property sector and escalating public debt

  3. COption (c)

    High wage growth

  4. DOption (d)

    Stable unemployment rates

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Issues in the property sector and escalating public debt

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is issues in the property sector and escalating public debt.

Key Points The challenge that has contributed to subdued external demand in the global economy includes issues in the property sector and escalating public debt. These factors have led to specific challenges within individual countries, affecting their economic stability and reducing their external demand.

Question 85

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What is the notable features of India's financial market? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Stocks experiencing a bear market

  2. BOption (b)

    Currency depreciation

  3. COption (c)

    Bull market in stocks and currency strengthening 

  4. DOption (d)

    Declining investment

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Bull market in stocks and currency strengthening 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Bull market in stocks and currency strengthening

Key PointsThe notable features of India's financial market include a bull market in stocks and a strengthening currency. This indicates a thriving financial environment with rising stock prices and an appreciating currency, reflecting investor confidence and a positive economic outlook.

Question 86

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What challenges has affected agricultural output in India? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Labour productivity

  2. BOption (b)

    Adverse weather conditions

  3. COption (c)

    Decreasing investment

  4. DOption (d)

    Escalating public debt levels

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Adverse weather conditions

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Adverse weather conditions

Key PointsAdverse weather conditions have affected agricultural output in India. Despite the overall positive economic growth, unfavorable weather has led to a contraction in the agricultural sector, impacting productivity and output.

Question 87

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What factor is driving the positive trend in labour productivity and business formation globally? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Resilient labour markets

  2. BOption (b)

    Wage stagnations

  3. COption (c)

    Enhanced labour mobility and advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning 

  4. DOption (d)

    Decreasing unemployment rates

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Enhanced labour mobility and advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning 

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Enhanced labour mobility and advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning

Key Points

The positive trend in labor productivity and business formation globally is driven by enhanced labor mobility and advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. These factors have contributed to improved efficiency and innovation, leading to increased productivity and the establishment of new businesses.

Question 88

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - IList - II
A.Rat Race ProblemI.A. Peacock and J. Wiseman
B.Displacement EffectII.C.M. Tiebout
C.Optimal TaxationIII.George Akerlof
D.Local Public GoodsIV.Diamond, P.A. and Mirrlees J.A.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - III, B - II, C - I, D - IV

  2. BOption (b)

    A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

  3. COption (c)

    A - II, B - I, C - IV, D - III

  4. DOption (d)

    A - IV, B - II, C - I, D - III

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II'.

Key Points

  • Rat Race Problem is related to George Akerlof.
  • George Akerlof's analysis of the labor market under certain conditions describes scenarios like the rat race problem where individuals exert excessive effort to maintain their relative status among peers, often leading to inefficient outcomes.
  • Displacement Effect was discussed by A. Peacock and J. Wiseman.
  • This effect is part of the broader fiscal illusion theory where government spending displaces private sector activity. It illustrates how public expenditures can lead to a reduction in private expenditures.
  • Optimal Taxation was extensively analyzed by Diamond, P.A. and Mirrlees, J.A.
  • Their work on optimal taxation involved creating models to determine the most efficient taxation systems that minimize efficiency losses while achieving desired redistributive goals.
  • Local Public Goods concept was explored by C.M. Tiebout.
  • Tiebout's model of local public goods is significant in public economics, suggesting that individuals sort themselves into communities that provide their optimal level of public goods, resembling a market mechanism.

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - III: Rat Race Problem - George Akerlof

B - I: Displacement Effect - A. Peacock and J. Wiseman

C - IV: Optimal Taxation - Diamond, P.A. and Mirrlees, J.A.

D - II: Local Public Goods - C.M. Tiebout

Read the following passage and answer the questions.

"In the early 1980s, Paul Romer challenged the conventional view among economists that productivity growth was exogenous, meaning it could not be influenced by anything else in the economy. He introduced endogenous growth theory, which posits that technological change is the result of efforts by researchers and entrepreneurs who respond to economic incentives. This technological change is the prime mover of the nation. Romer emphasized that factors such as tax policy, basic research funding and education could potentially influence long-term economic prospects.

Romer's 1990 paper marked a turning point in the understanding of economic growth. He highlighted". The significance of ideas in driving growth and emphasized that ideas are non-rival goods, unlike standard goods in classical economics. This nonrivalry of ideas leads to increasing return to scale, as the same idea can be used repeatedly without being depleted. Romer argued that growth in income per person is tied to growth in the total stock of ideas, rather than growth in ideas per person.

Further more, Romer's work suggested that in a perfectly competitive equilibrium with no externalities, the optimal allocation of resources cannot be decentralised. Instead, imperfect competition and externalities to the discovery of new ideas are likely to play important roles in driving innovation and growth.

Question 89

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

According to Romer, what distinguishes ideas from standard goods in economics? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Ideas are rival goods

  2. BOption (b)

    Ideas are subject to diminishing returns 

  3. COption (c)

    Ideas are nonrival goods

  4. DOption (d)

    Ideas are scarce resources

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Ideas are nonrival goods

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Ideas are nonrival goods 

Key PointsAccording to Paul Romer, ideas differ from standard goods in that they are nonrival goods. This means that an idea can be used by multiple people simultaneously without being depleted, unlike standard goods which can only be consumed by one person at a time. This nonrivalry characteristic of ideas leads to increasing returns to scale, as the same idea can be utilized repeatedly, contributing to economic growth.

Question 90

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What was the conventional view among economists regarding productivity growth in the early 1980?  

  1. AOption (a)

    Productivity growth is influenced by various factors in the economy.

  2. BOption (b)

    Productivity growth is exogenous and cannot be influenced by anything in the rest of the economy.

  3. COption (c)

    Productivity growth is solely determined by technological advancement.

  4. DOption (d)

    Productivity growth is driven by government policies. 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Productivity growth is exogenous and cannot be influenced by anything in the rest of the economy.

Why this answer is correct

Productivity growth is exogenous and cannot be influenced by anything in the rest of the economy.

Key Points

In the early 1980s, the conventional view among economists was that productivity growth was exogenous, meaning it was determined by factors outside the economic system and could not be influenced by anything within the economy.

Question 91

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What does Romer suggest about the optimal allocation of resources in a perfectly competitive equilibrium 

  1. AOption (a)

    It can be decentralised effectively.

  2. BOption (b)

    It requires external intervention to be achieved.

  3. COption (c)

    It leads to inefficiencies in resource allocation.

  4. DOption (d)

    It ensures fair distribution of resources. 

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

It requires external intervention to be achieved.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is It requires external intervention to be achieved.

Key PointsPaul Romer suggests that in a perfectly competitive equilibrium without externalities, the optimal allocation of resources cannot be decentralized effectively. He argues that external intervention is necessary because imperfect competition and externalities related to the discovery of new ideas play crucial roles in driving innovation and growth.

Question 92

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

What is emphasized as a key driver of economic growth in Romer's theory? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Technological change

  2. BOption (b)

    Population growth

  3. COption (c)

    Natural resource abundance

  4. DOption (d)

    Political stability

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Technological change

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Technological change

Key Points

In Romer's theory, technological change is emphasized as the key driver of economic growth. He posits that technological advancements, spurred by the efforts of researchers and entrepreneurs who respond to economic incentives, are the primary factors driving long-term economic progress

Question 93

Based on Passage: View directions & passage

How does the nonrivalry of ideas contribute to economic growth? 

  1. AOption (a)

    By leading to decreasing return to scale

  2. BOption (b)

    Leading to imperfection of market

  3. COption (c)

    By generating increasing return to scale

  4. DOption (d)

    By reducing the need for innovation

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

By generating increasing return to scale

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is By generating increasing return to scale

Key Points

The nonrivalry of ideas contributes to economic growth by generating increasing returns to scale. Since ideas can be used by multiple people simultaneously without being depleted, they can be applied repeatedly across different contexts, leading to greater productivity and efficiency

Question 94

Which of the following statement about price leadership is false? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Price leadership is a form of tacit collusion.

  2. BOption (b)

    With dominant price leadership, the leader in an industry is the biggest firm.

  3. COption (c)

    With barometric price leadership, the leader may change even if relative size of each firm stays the same. 

  4. DOption (d)

    Price leadership breaks down if input prices or demand conditions change.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Price leadership breaks down if input prices or demand conditions change.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Price leadership breaks down if input prices or demand conditions change'

Key Points

  • Price Leadership:
  • Price leadership occurs when one company, usually the largest or most influential in a sector, sets prices that other companies within the sector follow.
  • This form of leadership can occur as part of tacit collusion where firms indirectly coordinate prices without explicit agreement, aiming to reduce competition and stabilize market prices.
  • It is a common practice in industries where a few companies dominate, and it helps to provide a pricing benchmark, reducing price wars and maintaining industry profits.
  • Changes in input costs or market demand do not necessarily disrupt price leadership but can lead to adjustments in the pricing strategies by the leading firm, which are typically followed by other firms in the industry.

Additional Information

  • Dominant Price Leadership:
  • In dominant price leadership, the largest or most powerful company in the industry sets the price. Other firms, recognizing the market power of the leader, follow suit in order to avoid price wars.
  • This type of leadership is typically stable as the dominant firm has the economic leverage to enforce price levels that maximize its own profits, which are often aligned with maximizing industry profits.
  • Barometric Price Leadership:
  • Barometric price leadership happens when one company regularly serves as a good indicator of costs or market conditions, thus setting price trends that others follow, regardless of its size.
  • This leader might change based on who best reflects the current economic conditions, showing flexibility within the market leaders.

Important Points

  • While tacit collusion through price leadership can lead to higher prices for consumers, it also brings a level of price stability to the market, which can be beneficial in reducing the volatile price swings seen in highly competitive markets.
  • Regulatory bodies often monitor industries exhibiting price leadership to ensure that such practices do not violate anti-trust laws, which are designed to protect consumers from collusive behaviors that can lead to price fixing.

Question 95

Arrange the following states based on Gross State domestic product at constant price (₹ lakhs) in ascending order, in year 2022-23:

A. Haryana

B. Rajasthan 

C. Telengana

D. Madhya Pradesh

E. West Bengal

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    D, A, B, E, C

  2. BOption (b)

    A, D, B, C, E

  3. COption (c)

    A, B,C,D,E

  4. DOption (d)

    A, D, C, E, B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A, B,C,D,E

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "D, A, C, B, E"

Key Points

  • Madhya Pradesh (D):
  • In the year 2022-23, the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Madhya Pradesh at constant prices was ₹13,32,606 crore.
  • Madhya Pradesh's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, industry, and services, with significant contributions from the manufacturing and mining sectors.
  • Haryana (A):
  • The GSDP of Haryana at constant prices for 2022-23 was ₹9,94,154 crore.
  • Haryana has a robust industrial base and is known for its significant contributions in sectors like information technology, automobile manufacturing, and agriculture.
  • Telangana (C):
  • Telangana's GSDP at constant prices in 2022-23 was ₹11,53,173 crore.
  • The state has a diversified economy with strengths in information technology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
  • Rajasthan (B):
  • In 2022-23, the GSDP of Rajasthan at constant prices was ₹11,48,620 crore.
  • Rajasthan's economy is bolstered by agriculture, tourism, and mining, with notable production of minerals and handicrafts.
  • West Bengal (E):
  • The GSDP of West Bengal at constant prices for 2022-23 was ₹15,46,372 crore.
  • West Bengal has a diverse economy with significant contributions from agriculture, industry, and services, particularly in the IT and manufacturing sectors.

Additional Information

  • Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP):
  • GSDP measures the economic output of a state, similar to how GDP measures the economic output of a country.
  • It is calculated at constant prices to remove the effects of inflation and provides a clear picture of real economic growth over time.
  • Factors Influencing GSDP:
  • The economic structure of a state, including the dominant industries, resource availability, and infrastructure development, significantly influences GSDP.
  • Government policies, investment in technology and education, and the business environment also play crucial roles.

The data used in this analysis is sourced from the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation and the Reserve Bank of India, which provide detailed economic indicators and state-wise GSDP figures.

Question 96

Which of the following statements are true in case of theoretical distributions?

A. The mean of a symmetrical binomial distribution is 5 and the number of trials is 10

B. The mean of a Poisson distribution is 5 and the standard deviation is 3

C. The mean of a normal distribution is 5 and third order central moment (μ3) is 2

D. For a binomial distribution mean - 4 and then variance = 3

E. For a Poisson distribution if mean = 10 then, standard deviation = 5 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B and E only

  2. BOption (b)

    B, D and E only

  3. COption (c)

    A and D only

  4. DOption (d)

    A, C and D only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A and D only

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: A and D only

Key Points

 

  • The mean of a symmetrical binomial distribution is 5 and the number of trials is 10:
  • This statement is correct.
  • For a binomial distribution, the mean μ \mu is given by μ=n⋅p \mu = n \cdot p . Given the mean is 5 and the number of trials n n is 10, we have 5=10⋅p 5 = 10 \cdot p , so p=0.5 p = 0.5 , which is typical for a symmetrical binomial distribution.
  • The mean of a Poisson distribution is 5 and the standard deviation is 3:
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • For a Poisson distribution, the mean μ \mu is equal to the variance σ2 \sigma^2 , and the standard deviation σ \sigma is μ \sqrt{\mu} . If μ=5 \mu = 5 , then σ=5≈2.236 \sigma = \sqrt{5} \approx 2.236 , not 3.
  • The mean of a normal distribution is 5 and third order central moment (μ3) is 2:
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • For a normal distribution, the third order central moment (μ3), which represents skewness, is 0 because a normal distribution is symmetrical. Therefore, μ3 = 2 indicates it is not a normal distribution.
  • For a binomial distribution mean = 4 and then variance = 3:
  • This statement is correct.
  • For a binomial distribution, the variance σ2 \sigma^2 is given by σ2=n⋅p⋅(1−p) \sigma^2 = n \cdot p \cdot (1-p) . If the mean μ=n⋅p=4 \mu = n \cdot p = 4 and the variance σ2=3 \sigma^2 = 3 , it is possible under certain conditions.
  • For a Poisson distribution if mean = 10 then, standard deviation = 5:
  • This statement is incorrect.
  • For a Poisson distribution, the standard deviation σ \sigma is μ \sqrt{\mu} . If μ=10 \mu = 10 , then σ=10≈3.162 \sigma = \sqrt{10} \approx 3.162 , not 5.

Additional Information

  • Binomial Distribution:
  • The binomial distribution models the number of successes in a fixed number of independent Bernoulli trials, each with the same probability of success.
  • Mean μ=n⋅p \mu = n \cdot p and variance σ2=n⋅p⋅(1−p) \sigma^2 = n \cdot p \cdot (1-p) .
  • Poisson Distribution:
  • The Poisson distribution models the number of events occurring in a fixed interval of time or space, with the mean number of events being μ \mu .
  • Mean μ \mu and variance σ2=μ \sigma^2 = \mu , with standard deviation σ=μ \sigma = \sqrt{\mu} .
  • Normal Distribution:
  • The normal distribution is a continuous probability distribution characterized by a symmetric bell-shaped curve.
  • It has mean μ \mu and variance σ2 \sigma^2 . The third central moment (skewness) is zero for a normal distribution.

Question 97

Match List - I with List - II.

List - I StateList - II SDGs Score in 2020
A.Uttar PradeshI.62
B.KarnatakaII.72
C.Madhya PradeshIII.74
D.Tamil NaduIV.60

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - I, B - II, C - IV, D - III

  2. BOption (b)

    A - II, B - IV, C - I, D - III

  3. COption (c)

    A - IV, B - III, C - I, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - IV, B - II, C - I, D - III

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A - I, B - II, C - IV, D - III

Why this answer is correct

The correct option is 'A - I, B - II, C - IV, D - III'.

Key Points

  • Uttar Pradesh's SDG score in 2020 was 62.
  • Uttar Pradesh, one of India's largest states by population, achieved an SDG score of 62, indicating progress towards goals but also highlighting areas needing significant improvement, especially in health, education, and economic growth.
  • Karnataka achieved an SDG score of 72 in 2020.
  • Karnataka, known for its IT hub in Bengaluru and progressive policies, scored 72, reflecting better performance in areas like innovation, infrastructure, and sustainable cities.
  • Madhya Pradesh had an SDG score of 60 in 2020.
  • Madhya Pradesh, with diverse demographics and challenges, scored 60, highlighting the need for more targeted interventions in reducing inequalities and enhancing sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Tamil Nadu scored 74, the highest among the mentioned states.
  • Tamil Nadu's score of 74 underscores its advancements in health, education, and economic stability, positioning it as a leader in meeting sustainable development objectives.

Therefore, the correct pairing is:

A - I: Uttar Pradesh - 62

B - II: Karnataka - 72

C - IV: Madhya Pradesh - 60

D - III: Tamil Nadu - 74

Question 98

Arrange the revenue expenditure of Union govt. for major items (in ₹ lakhs crore) for the FY 2023-24 (BE) in ascending order:

A. Salaries (pay and allowances)

B. Pensions 

C. Interest Payments

D. Major subsidies

E. Defence services

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B, D, E, A, C

  2. BOption (b)

    B, E, D, A, C

  3. COption (c)

    E, B, A, D, C

  4. DOption (d)

    D, A, B, C, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B, D, E, A, C

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is: "B, D, E, A, C"

Key Points

  • Pensions (B):
  • The government allocates funds for pensions, which cover retirement benefits for its employees. For FY 2023-24, the expenditure is projected at ₹2.34 lakh crore.
  • This figure reflects both civil and defense pensions, highlighting the government's commitment to its retired workforce.
  • Major Subsidies (D):
  • This category includes subsidies for food, fertilizers, and petroleum, critical for managing the cost of living and supporting agriculture. The budget allocation for 2023-24 is ₹3.74 lakh crore.
  • Subsidies play a vital role in stabilizing prices and ensuring affordability of essential goods.
  • Defence Services (E):
  • Defense spending ensures national security and supports the armed forces. For 2023-24, the expenditure is ₹4.32 lakh crore.
  • This funding supports both operational capabilities and capital outlays for modernizing military assets.
  • Salaries (Pay and Allowances) (A):
  • Government salaries cover the pay and allowances for public sector employees. This segment's expenditure details are not specified in the options but are generally a substantial part of the budget.
  • Ensures competitive compensation to retain and attract skilled personnel to public services.
  • Interest Payments (C):
  • The largest expenditure item, interest payments on public debt, is ₹10.79 lakh crore for 2023-24.
  • This reflects the cost of borrowing and the government's fiscal strategy related to debt management.

Additional Information

  • Financial Strategy and Planning:
  • The distribution of revenue expenditure reflects the government's priorities, such as supporting the vulnerable through subsidies, ensuring robust defense capabilities, and meeting obligations through interest payments.
  • The management of these funds plays a crucial role in achieving economic stability and growth, with implications for inflation, employment, and overall economic health.

Question 99

Match List - 1 with List - II.

List - 1List - II
A.Low quality of goods can drive high quality goods out of marketI.Moral Hazard
B.A party whose actions are unobserved can affect the probability or magnitude of a paymentII.Ratchet effect
C.Individuals tend to value an item more when they own it than when they do notIII.Lemons Problem
D.Preference of government is to make sustained expenditureIV.Endowment effect

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    A - I, B - IV, C - II, D - III 

  2. BOption (b)

    A - I, B - III, C - IV, D - II

  3. COption (c)

    A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

  4. DOption (d)

    A - III, B - II, C - IV, D - I

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

Why this answer is correct

The Correct Answer is: 3) A - III, B - I, C - IV, D - II

Key Points

  • Lemons Problem (A - III):
  • The "Lemons Problem," coined by George Akerlof, refers to a market scenario where low-quality goods (lemons) drive high-quality goods out of the market. This occurs due to information asymmetry where buyers cannot distinguish between high and low-quality goods, leading to a general mistrust and decline in market quality.
  • Moral Hazard (B - I):
  • Moral Hazard arises when a party's actions, which are unobserved, can affect the likelihood or size of a payment. For example, an insured individual might take greater risks because they do not bear the full consequences of their actions, knowing that the insurance company will cover the losses.
  • Endowment Effect (C - IV):
  • The Endowment Effect is a psychological phenomenon where individuals ascribe higher value to things merely because they own them. This effect suggests that ownership increases the value of an item more than if the same item was not owned by the individual.
  • Ratchet Effect (D - II):
  • The Ratchet Effect describes the situation where governments or organizations prefer sustained expenditure levels, even in the face of reduced revenues. This term is often used in the context of government spending, indicating a tendency to maintain or increase expenditure levels over time.

Additional Information

Important points to remember about the concepts:

  • Lemons Problem:
  • It is a classic example of adverse selection, where the presence of lower-quality goods in the market leads to the withdrawal of higher-quality goods.
  • It highlights the need for mechanisms that provide buyers with accurate information about product quality.
  • Moral Hazard:
  • This concept is prevalent in insurance markets, financial sectors, and employment contracts.
  • It stresses the importance of monitoring and incentivizing good behavior to mitigate risks associated with unobserved actions.
  • Endowment Effect:
  • This phenomenon can influence consumer behavior, pricing strategies, and market transactions.
  • Understanding the endowment effect can help in designing better marketing and sales tactics.
  • Ratchet Effect:
  • It underscores the challenges in reducing government spending once it has increased.
  • The effect can lead to budget deficits and increased public debt if not managed properly.

Question 100

Arrange the following states in terms of number of branches of regional rural banks in the year of 2023, in ascending order:

A. Haryana

B. Himachal Pradesh 

C. Jammu and Kashmir

D. Punjab

E. Assam

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    B, D, E, A, C

  2. BOption (b)

    C, B, D, A, E

  3. COption (c)

    B, C, D, A, E

  4. DOption (d)

    D, C, B, A, E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

B, C, D, A, E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: B, C, D, A, E

Key Points

 

  • Number of branches of regional rural banks in Haryana: 
  • Haryana had 693 branches of regional rural banks as of 2023
  • Number of branches of regional rural banks in Himachal Pradesh:
  • Himachal Pradesh had 276 branches of regional rural banks as of 2023​
  • Number of branches of regional rural banks in Jammu & Kashmir:
  • Jammu & Kashmir had 336 branches of regional rural banks as of 2023​
  • Number of branches of regional rural banks in Punjab:
  • Punjab had 443 branches of regional rural banks as of 2023​
  • Number of branches of regional rural banks in Assam:
  • Assam had 478 branches of regional rural banks as of 2023​

Additional Information

  • Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) were established under the Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976, with the aim of providing sufficient banking and credit facility for agriculture and other rural sectors.
  • The goal of RRBs is to develop rural economy by providing credit for the development of agriculture, trade, commerce, industry, and other productive activities in the rural areas.
  • RRBs are jointly owned by the Government of India, the respective state government, and a sponsor bank, which usually is a nationalized commercial bank.
  • The role of RRBs has been crucial in ensuring financial inclusion, especially in remote and underserved areas where commercial banks may not have significant reach.

100 questions in the full paper