2023 · GS Paper 2 · Q6 · 10 marks
The crucial aspect of development process has been the inadequate attention paid to Human Resource Development in India. Suggest measures that can address this inadequacy.
In short
India can address its inadequate human resource development by funding foundational learning, market-led skilling, child nutrition and primary health care as investments, with focus on women and lagging regions. Only 4.1% of Indians aged 15-59 have formal vocational training (PLFS 2023-24).
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 280 words
Fund Education
Raise public spending towards NEP 2020's 6% of GDP, prioritising trained teachers and learning quality over buildings.
Foundational Learning
Scale NIPUN Bharat (2021) with assessment-led teaching, since ASER surveys show that years of schooling do not ensure learning.
Market-Led Skilling
With only 4.1% of people aged 15-59 formally trained (PLFS 2023-24), link apprenticeships, the PM Internship Scheme and Recognition of Prior Learning to industry demand.
Research Capacity
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (2023) can lift university research.
First 1,000 Days
Child stunting of 35.5% (NFHS-5) erodes cognition, so POSHAN 2.0 needs outcome-based monitoring.
Primary Health Care
Raise public health spending to 2.5% of GDP (NHP 2017) and equip Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
Women in Work
Sustain the rise of female LFPR to 41.7% (PLFS 2023-24) through creches, safe transport and maternity support.
Lagging Regions
Extend the Aspirational Districts Programme (2018), which ranks districts on health, education and skills to direct effort where human development lags most.
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Human Resources4 questions
Asked in 4 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2019Despite Consistent experience of high growth, India still goes with the lowest indicators of human development. Examine the issues that make balanced and inclusive development elusive.
- 2016"Demographic Dividend in India will remain only theoretical unless our manpower becomes more educated, aware, skilled and creative." What measures have been taken by the government to enhance the capacity of our population to be more productive and employable ?
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2023 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.