Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

The Primary Sector is highly significant in the Indian economy for the following reasons:

1. Base for all sectors: It forms the foundation for secondary and tertiary sectors, as it supplies raw materials like cotton, sugarcane, and minerals for industries.

1. Largest employer: Despite a fall in its share of GVA, the primary sector continues to employ more than half of India's workforce, making it the largest employment provider.

1. Contribution to GVA: In 1977–78, it was the largest producing sector. Even in 2017–18, it contributes about one-sixth of India's GVA.

However, the sector faces the problem of disguised/hidden unemployment, where more people work than are actually needed, reducing overall productivity.

Source: Chapter 2 — Sectors of the Indian Economy

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Examiners look for: (1) role as base/foundation, (2) employment significance (largest employer), (3) GVA contribution with some data, and (4) mention of disguised unemployment as a key issue. Avoid writing a long essay — 3 marks = 3 clear points. Using the term "disguised unemployment" earns a keyword mark. Data points (half the workforce, one-sixth of GVA) strengthen the answer.