The Economy of Maharashtra
Short Questions
1. When was the state of Maharashtra formed?
Answer: 1st May 1960.
2. How many administrative divisions does Maharashtra have as per the Economic Survey 2017-18?
Answer: Six revenue divisions.
3. What was the population of Maharashtra as per the 2011 census?
Answer: 11.24 crores.
4. What is the literacy rate of Maharashtra according to the 2011 census?
Answer: 82.3%.
5. What was the share of agriculture in Gross State Value Added (GSVA) during 2016-17?
Answer: 12.2%.
6. What is the share of the industrial sector in Net Value Added (NVA) as per the Annual Survey of Industries 2016-17?
Answer: 18%.
7. What was the FDI inflow in Maharashtra from April 2000 to September 2017?
Answer: ₹6,11,760 crore.
8. What is the contribution of the service sector to GSDP in 2017-18?
Answer: 54.5%.
9. How many primary health centres were there in Maharashtra as of 31st March 2017?
Answer: 1814.
10. How many co-operative societies were there in Maharashtra as of 31st March 2017?
Answer: 1.95 lakh.
Long Questions
1. What are the key features of Maharashtra’s economy?
Answer: Maharashtra’s economy is marked by abundant natural resources, skilled manpower, technological advancements, and developed infrastructure. It is the most urbanized state with a high GSDP growth rate and a literacy rate of 82.3%, making it a hub for investment and tourism.
2. What are the general problems faced by the agricultural sector in Maharashtra?
Answer: The agricultural sector faces issues like small land holdings, soil degradation due to chemical overuse, inadequate irrigation, and agricultural indebtedness. Other challenges include poor marketing facilities and the impact of climatic changes.
3. What measures has the government taken to promote agricultural development in Maharashtra?
Answer: The government distributes quality seeds, increases fertilizer outlets, develops irrigation, and electrifies agricultural pumps. It also sets up APMCs, agro-export zones, and uses mass media to promote profitable farming practices.
4. Why is Maharashtra considered an industrially advanced state?
Answer: Maharashtra leads in industrial growth due to its top position in the Annual Survey of Industries, attracting significant FDI (31% of India’s total). It supports diverse industries and provides a conducive environment for domestic and foreign investors.
5. What are the major problems in the industrial sector of Maharashtra?
Answer: The industrial sector faces delays in government procedures, lack of skill development, outdated technology, and inadequate infrastructure. Regional imbalances and insufficient motivation for new entrepreneurs also hinder industrial growth.
6. How has the government facilitated industrial development in Maharashtra?
Answer: The government introduced a single window cell for investor clearances, MAITRI for investment guidance, and Special Economic Zones. It also supports small-scale industries with export awards and implements the MSICDP for enterprise development.
7. What is the role of the service sector in Maharashtra’s economy?
Answer: The service sector, contributing 54.5% to GSDP, is the largest and fastest-growing sector, generating significant employment. It includes fintech, IT/ITES, tourism, and education, with expansion efforts in Tier II cities.
8. How does economic infrastructure support Maharashtra’s development?
Answer: Economic infrastructure, including energy, transport, and communication, facilitates the production and distribution of goods. Initiatives like rural electrification, road development, and metro railways enhance Maharashtra’s competitiveness and attract investment.
9. What measures have been taken to improve social infrastructure in Maharashtra?
Answer: Maharashtra promotes education through RTE, SSA, and RUSA, alongside health services via NRHM and NUHM. It implements schemes for girls’ education, tribal education, and adult literacy to improve human resource development.
10. What is the significance of the co-operative movement in Maharashtra?
Answer: The co-operative movement promotes self-help, democracy, and equality, significantly contributing to rural economic development. It spans agriculture, agro-processing, dairy, and housing, with 1.95 lakh societies supporting 5.25 lakh members.
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