Social Science — CBSE Class 10 board question

The economic strength of a country is measured by the development of manufacturing industries because of the following reasons:

1. Modernises agriculture: Manufacturing industries provide farmers with irrigation pumps, fertilisers, pesticides, and machinery, raising agricultural productivity and efficiency.

1. Reduces unemployment and poverty: Industrial development creates jobs in secondary and tertiary sectors, reducing people's dependence on agricultural income.

1. Reduces regional disparities: Establishing industries in tribal and backward areas helps bring development to underdeveloped regions.

1. Earns foreign exchange: Export of manufactured goods expands trade and commerce and brings in much-needed foreign exchange.

1. Increases prosperity: Countries that transform raw materials into finished goods of higher value become prosperous. For example, iron ore is converted into steel, and bauxite into aluminium, adding significant value.

Thus, rapid development and diversification of manufacturing is essential for India's economic growth.

Source: Manufacturing Industries, Chapter 6

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• This is a direct textbook-based 5-mark question. All 5 points come straight from the "Importance of Manufacturing" section — examiners expect exactly these points.
• Use the phrase "foreign exchange" explicitly — it is a key term examiners look for.
• Giving one example per point (e.g., iron ore → steel) earns full marks and keeps the answer within word limits.
• Avoid writing a long introduction; start directly with the points.