UPSC Prelims 2018 · CSAT

Question 71: Data Interpretation

Consider the following graphs. The curves in the graphs indicate different age groups in the populations of two countries A and B over a period of few decades : With reference to the above graphs, which of the following are the most logical and rational inferences that can be made?

1.Over the last two and a half decades, the dependency ratio for country B has decreased.
2.By the end of next two and a half decades, the dependency ratio of country A will be much less than that of country B.
3.In the next two decades, the work-force relative to its total population will increase in country B as compared to country A.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

two line graphs, Country A and Country B, of population in millions (0 to 1.2) against years 1950 to 2050, each with three curves for the age groups under 15 (solid), 15-64 (dotted) and 64+ (dashed), with a legend under each

a1 and 2 only

b2 and 3 only

c1 and 3 only

d1, 2 and 3

AnswerUPSC’s answer is (c).

Dependency ratio = (under 15 + over 64) ÷ working-age (15 to 64). Country B: about (0.32 + 0.05) ÷ 0.52 = 0.71 in 1990 and (0.36 + 0.10) ÷ 0.80 = 0.58 in 2010, so it falls (statement 1). By 2030 the ratios of A and B are about equal, 0.49 and 0.50, so A's is not much lower (statement 2). Workforce share rises for B from about 63% to 66% between 2010 and 2030 but falls for A from about 70% to 67% (statement 3). Readings are approximate.

1. B's dependency ratio drops from about 0.71 to about 0.58.
2. A's and B's ratios are about equal by 2030, not much lower for A.
3. B's workforce share rises while A's falls.

How you could have got this

If you were sure statement 2 is not correct, (a), (b) and (d) go: each of them includes 2.
What you needed to know: A's and B's ratios are about equal by 2030, not much lower for A.

Only (c) is left. You didn’t need statements 1 or 3.

Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Statement 2 fails: the two ratios are about equal by 2030.
(b) Statement 2 fails, so this pair is wrong.
(c) Correct: B's ratio falls and its workforce share gains on A's.
(d) Statement 2 fails, so not all three hold.

Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2018, General Studies Paper II (CSAT), Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.