In the ‘Index of Eight Core Industries’, which one of the following is given the highest weight?
- (a) Coal production
- (b) Electricity generation ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Fertilizer production
- (d) Steel production
Why the answer is (b)
• The Index of Eight Core Industries (base 2011–12) has weights: refinery products 28.0%, electricity 19.9%, steel 17.9%, coal 10.3%, crude oil 9.0%, natural gas 6.9%, cement 5.4%, fertilisers 2.6%.
• Among the four options, electricity generation carries the highest weight — option (b); refinery products, the overall highest, is not offered.
• The eight core industries make up about 40% of the Index of Industrial Production.
• Hence option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) Coal production
- Coal has about 10% weight, lower than electricity.
- (c) Fertilizer production
- Fertilisers have the lowest weight (2.6%).
- (d) Steel production
- Steel (17.9%) is below electricity (19.9%).
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.