Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

Electricity is considered an index of development because of the following reasons:

1. All sectors depend on it: Agriculture, industry, transport, commercial and domestic sectors all require energy inputs. Without electricity, economic development cannot be sustained.

1. Drives industrial growth: Iron ore, steel and other industries need continuous electricity supply. More developed nations consume more electricity per person.

1. Fuels modern technology: Photovoltaic systems, wind farms, and nuclear plants all ultimately generate electricity, reflecting a nation's technological advancement.

1. Rising demand: As India's economic development plans have expanded since Independence, energy consumption has steadily risen, making per capita electricity use a direct measure of progress.

1. Quality of life: Electricity powers domestic needs — lighting, cooking, heating — so higher per capita use reflects better living standards.

Hence, a nation's per capita electricity consumption directly mirrors its economic and social development level.

Source: Energy Resources and Conservation of Energy Resources, Chapter 5

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• The examiner expects you to link electricity/energy consumption to economic development across multiple sectors.
• Mention at least 4-5 distinct points for a 5-mark question.
• You can mention specific examples (agriculture, industry, domestic use) to show breadth.
• Avoid simply listing sectors — briefly explain why each point justifies the statement.
• Do not write an essay; keep each point to 1-2 lines.