The crude oil reserves of the world are estimated to last approximately 47 years at the current rate of extraction. What challenges does this pose for developing nations like India, and how does it relate to the concept of sustainable development?
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 13:21 · grounding rag
Model Answer
Crude oil, a non-renewable resource, will last only about 47 years at the current rate of extraction. This poses serious challenges for developing nations like India:
- Import Dependence: India lacks sufficient crude oil reserves and must import it. Rising global oil prices increase the financial burden on the country.
- Energy Insecurity: Depleting reserves threaten India's energy supply needed for industrial and agricultural development.
- Sustainable Development: This situation highlights that the present type and level of development are not sustainable. Sustainable development means meeting current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. As the text notes, "We have not inherited the world from our forefathers — we have borrowed it from our children."
India must shift towards renewable energy sources to ensure sustainable development.
Source: Chapter 1 — Economics, Section: Sustainability of Development / Exhaustion of Natural Resources
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Explanation
- The examiner expects two challenges for India (import dependence + financial burden) and a link to sustainable development with the quote or core idea.
- Always mention that crude oil is non-renewable — this is the key concept connecting scarcity to sustainability.
- The famous quote from the textbox is a high-value line to include; examiners reward it.
- Do not write lengthy paragraphs — crisp numbered points score well in 3-mark answers.