Passage

Directions for the next 2 (two) items : Read the following passage and answer the items that follow. Your answers should be based solely on the passage. Passage How is deflation done? Most countries use a method called 'double deflation', where input and output prices are deflated separately. Consider a manufacturer importing oil for use in production. If oil prices fall, output prices do not and quantities remain the same, real value added should not change. But if the same deflator is used for inputs and outputs, as in India, it would look as if the manufacturer had become more productive.

Which of the following assumptions is/are valid? 1. Deflation strategies can be used to make manufacturers appear to be doing better than they actually are. 2. When input and output prices are both deflated against a single input price, it is referred to as 'double deflation'. Select the answer using the code given below.

(a) 1 only ✓ UPSC's answer
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Why the answer is (a)

• Assumption 1 is valid: using the same deflator for inputs and outputs "would look as if the manufacturer had become more productive", so a deflation method can make performance look better than it is.

• Assumption 2 is not valid: double deflation means deflating input and output prices SEPARATELY, not deflating both against a single input price.

• Hence 1 only: (a).

Why the other options are wrong

(b) 2 only: Statement 2 reverses the definition of double deflation.
(c) Both 1 and 2: Statement 2 is not valid.
(d) Neither 1 nor 2: Statement 1 is supported by the passage's example.

Asked in the CSAT Paper II of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, held on 24 May 2026. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.