Economy : Basic Economic Concepts

Q 2 / 14

UPSC CSE Prelims 2024

With reference to physical capital in Indian economy, consider the following pairs:

Items Category
1. Farmer's plough Working capital
2. Computer Fixed capital
3. Yarn used by the weaver Fixed capital
4. Petrol Working capital
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched ?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

Pairs 2 and 4 are correctly matched.

  • Pair 2 (Computer - Fixed capital): A computer is a durable asset used over an extended period in the production process. It is not consumed in a single production cycle and contributes to output over multiple cycles, thus qualifying as fixed capital.
  • Pair 4 (Petrol - Working capital): Petrol is a raw material or input that is consumed entirely in a single production process or operation (e.g., as fuel for machinery or transport). It requires frequent replenishment and is therefore classified as working capital.

Incorrect Options

  • Pair 1 (Farmer's plough - Working capital): A farmer's plough is a tool that is durable and used across multiple cropping seasons. It is not consumed in a single use and does not need to be replenished after each season. Therefore, it is an example of fixed capital, not working capital.
  • Pair 3 (Yarn used by weaver - Fixed capital): Yarn is a raw material that is completely transformed or consumed in a single production cycle to produce cloth. It needs to be replenished frequently for continuous production. Hence, it represents working capital, not fixed capital.
SOURCENCERT Class 12 Macroeconomics, Chapter 1: Introduction to Macroeconomics