Question

Analyse the trends in sectoral distribution of workforce in India on the basis of data:

Trends in Employment Pattern (Sector−wise), 1972−2012 (in%)
Sector	1972 − 73	1983	1993 − 94	1999 − 2000	2011 − 2012
Primary	74.3	68.6	64	60.4	48.9
Secondary	10.9	11.5	16	15.8	24.3
Services	14.8	16.9	20	23.8	26.8
Total	100.0	100.0	100.0	100.0	100.0

Answer 1

The table indicates changes in the employment pattern across different sectors of the Indian economy. The data shows a significant decline in employment in the primary sector, from 74.3% in 1972 – 73 to 48.9% in 2011 – 12. At the same time, employment has risen in both the secondary and tertiary (service) sectors, which is important for a country aiming to achieve development. The growth in workforce participation in these sectors suggests that India is gradually moving towards industrialisation and placing greater emphasis on the expansion of the service sector.