The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The National Statistical Office (NSO) classifies the activity status of persons into three broad categories: Working (Employed), Seeking or available for work (Unemployed), and Neither seeking nor available for work (Not in the Labour Force). The definition of unemployment relies on the individual being without work despite being part of the labour force.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: An unemployed person is defined as someone who, during the reference period, did not work and was not engaged in any economic activity specifically due to a lack of work.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The category "seeking or available for work" includes those who make tangible efforts to find a job. Registering with employment exchanges is a recognized method of seeking work. Therefore, individuals seeking work through employment exchanges are included in the unemployment statistics.
- Statement 3 is Correct: The definition encompasses those who are "available for work." This refers to individuals who may not be actively seeking work (perhaps due to a belief that no work is available) but express their willingness to work under prevailing conditions if work is offered.
Key Takeaway:
To be classified as unemployed by the NSO, a person must satisfy three criteria: they must be without work, seeking work (active search), or available for work (passive willingness). Seeking work through employment exchanges is a valid criterion for inclusion.