The correct option is 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
The distribution of the workforce in India is analyzed based on the region of residence (rural versus urban) and the sector of employment (primary, secondary, or tertiary). Data from the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) highlights distinct structural differences between rural and urban employment patterns.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Correct: A significant majority of India's workforce resides in rural areas. Despite rapid urbanization, the rural economy continues to support a larger proportion of the working population compared to urban areas.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: In urban areas, the tertiary sector (services) is the largest employer, followed by the secondary sector (manufacturing and construction). The primary sector (agriculture and allied activities) employs a negligible portion of the urban workforce due to the nature of urban economic activities.
- Statement 3 is Correct: In rural areas, the primary sector (agriculture) remains the largest employer. While there has been a gradual shift towards non-farm employment, agriculture still absorbs the majority of the rural labor force.
Key Takeaway:
India's workforce distribution is characterized by a rural dominance in the primary sector, whereas the urban workforce is concentrated heavily in the tertiary (services) sector.