Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 220

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -220

Q1. Extreme Poverty, Purchasing Power Parity and Inclusive Growth

In the context of the World Bank's reported decline in extreme poverty in India, consider the following statements:

1. Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) adjusts for differences in price levels across countries.
2. A reduction in extreme poverty necessarily means that income inequality has disappeared.
3. A person may move above the extreme-poverty threshold while remaining economically vulnerable.
4. Productive employment and improvements in real earnings can help make poverty reduction sustainable.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: The supplied reports discuss a substantial reduction in India's extreme-poverty rate while highlighting continuing inequality and regional disparities. Statement 1 is correct because PPP makes international comparisons more meaningful by accounting for differences in purchasing power. Statement 2 is incorrect. Poverty and inequality measure different aspects of economic conditions. Poverty may decline even when income differences remain large. Statement 3 is correct because households just above the poverty line may still face financial insecurity. Statement 4 is correct because employment, skills and higher real earnings support lasting improvements. Hidden trap: Poverty reduction does not automatically imply equality.

Q2. Census 2027, Digital Enumeration and Public Policy

In the context of the proposed digital self-enumeration process for Census 2027, consider the following statements:

1. Census data can support planning for schools, healthcare facilities, housing and public infrastructure.
2. Digital self-enumeration automatically ensures that every household is counted.
3. Digital exclusion may affect people with limited internet access or digital literacy.
4. Reliable population statistics can improve the targeting and evaluation of welfare programmes.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1, 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

Correct Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: Navbharat Times discusses the proposed Census 2027 schedule and digital self-enumeration facilities. Statement 1 is correct because population statistics help governments estimate demand for public services. Statement 2 is incorrect. Digital enumeration cannot automatically cover households lacking devices, connectivity or digital skills. Statement 3 is correct because the digital divide can create unequal participation. Statement 4 is correct because accurate demographic information helps improve resource allocation and welfare planning. Traditional field enumeration and verification remain important alongside digital methods. Hidden trap: Digital efficiency should not be confused with universal inclusion.