Correct Option
The correct option is (c) 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
Poverty estimation in India has historically relied on a calorie consumption-based methodology. The Task Force on Projections of Minimum Needs and Effective Consumption Demand (1979), chaired by Y.K. Alagh, constructed the poverty line based on nutritional requirements. This approach linked poverty to the inability to meet specific daily calorie norms.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The accepted average calorie requirement is higher in rural areas, not urban areas. The defined norms are 2,400 calories per person per day in rural areas and 2,100 calories per person per day in urban areas.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The higher calorie requirement for rural areas is based on the premise that rural populations are primarily engaged in agriculture and manual labor, which requires more physical exertion compared to the relatively sedentary nature of work in urban areas.
- Statement 3 is Correct: Despite the lower calorie requirement in urban areas, the monetary expenditure (Poverty Line) required to access these calories (and other essentials) is higher in urban areas. This is due to the higher prices of food grains and essential commodities, as well as the generally higher cost of living in cities compared to villages.
Key Takeaway: In Indian poverty estimation, Rural areas have a higher calorie norm (2400 kcal) due to physical labor, while Urban areas typically have a higher monetary poverty line due to the higher cost of living.