With reference to the pre-reform period in China, consider the following statements: 1. The per capita grain output in 1978 was significantly higher than in the mid-1950s due to extensive land reforms. 2. The establishment of infrastructure in education and health helped improve social indicators in the post-reform period. 3. There was equitable distribution of food grains through the commune system. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Correct Option The correct option is 2 and 3 only. Explanation The question pertains to the economic conditions and structural features of the Chinese economy during the pre-reform period (prior to 1978). This era was characterized by the Great Leap Forward, the commune system, and centralized planning under Mao Zedong. Understanding the baseline conditions of 1978 is crucial to analyzing the impact of subsequent economic reforms. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Incorrect. While China implemented extensive land reforms and collectivization, agricultural productivity remained stagnant for long periods due to the inefficiencies of the commune system and lack of individual incentives. Historical data indicates that the per capita grain output in 1978 was almost the same as it was in the mid-1950s. This stagnation was a primary driver for the agricultural reforms introduced in 1978. - Statement 2 is Correct. Despite economic stagnation in certain sectors, the pre-reform period saw significant state investment in basic social infrastructure. The establishment of a robust foundation in education and healthcare (e.g., the "barefoot doctors" initiative) created a healthy and literate workforce. This human capital was instrumental in driving the rapid growth and improvement in social indicators observed during the post-reform period. - Statement 3 is Correct. The commune system, introduced during the Great Leap Forward (1958), organized rural households into large collective units. While it failed to maximize productivity, it succeeded in ensuring a relatively equitable distribution of food grains and basic necessities among the rural population, preventing the extreme inequalities often associated with market economies. Key Takeaway Key Takeaway: The pre-reform Chinese economy (pre-1978) was characterized by equitable distribution and strong social infrastructure (health and education) but suffered from stagnant agricultural productivity and low per capita output due to the inefficiencies of the collective farming system.

NCERT Class 11 Economics — Chapter 9: Comparative Development Experiences of India and its Neighbours

mcqhard

With reference to the pre-reform period in China, consider the following statements:

The per capita grain output in 1978 was significantly higher than in the mid-1950s due to extensive land reforms.
The establishment of infrastructure in education and health helped improve social indicators in the post-reform period.
There was equitable distribution of food grains through the commune system.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

A2 and 3 only
B1, 2 and 3
C2 only
D1 and 2 only

Did you get this right?

Solution

Correct Option

The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

The question pertains to the economic conditions and structural features of the Chinese economy during the pre-reform period (prior to 1978). This era was characterized by the Great Leap Forward, the commune system, and centralized planning under Mao Zedong. Understanding the baseline conditions of 1978 is crucial to analyzing the impact of subsequent economic reforms.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect.
While China implemented extensive land reforms and collectivization, agricultural productivity remained stagnant for long periods due to the inefficiencies of the commune system and lack of individual incentives. Historical data indicates that the per capita grain output in 1978 was almost the same as it was in the mid-1950s. This stagnation was a primary driver for the agricultural reforms introduced in 1978.
Statement 2 is Correct.
Despite economic stagnation in certain sectors, the pre-reform period saw significant state investment in basic social infrastructure. The establishment of a robust foundation in education and healthcare (e.g., the "barefoot doctors" initiative) created a healthy and literate workforce. This human capital was instrumental in driving the rapid growth and improvement in social indicators observed during the post-reform period.
Statement 3 is Correct.
The commune system, introduced during the Great Leap Forward (1958), organized rural households into large collective units. While it failed to maximize productivity, it succeeded in ensuring a relatively equitable distribution of food grains and basic necessities among the rural population, preventing the extreme inequalities often associated with market economies.

Key Takeaway

Key Takeaway: The pre-reform Chinese economy (pre-1978) was characterized by equitable distribution and strong social infrastructure (health and education) but suffered from stagnant agricultural productivity and low per capita output due to the inefficiencies of the collective farming system.

Your note

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Which of the following terms best describes the "Commune system" introduced in China during the Great Leap Forward?

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"State Owned Enterprises" (SOEs) in China are equivalent to which of the following in India?

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With reference to the "Great Leap Forward" (GLF) campaign initiated in China in 1958, consider the following statements: 1. It aimed at industrialising the country on a massive scale by encouraging people to set up industries in their backyards. 2. Under this campaign, the Commune system was dismantled to encourage individual farming. 3. The campaign was supported by professionals sent from Russia who stayed until the end of the Cultural Revolution. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Consider the following statements regarding the "Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution" (1966-76) in China: 1. It was introduced by Mao Zedong. 2. It aimed to attract foreign professionals to work in Chinese cities. 3. Students and professionals were sent to work and learn from the countryside. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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Correct Option

The correct option is 2 and 3 only.

Explanation

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect.
While China implemented extensive land reforms and collectivization, agricultural productivity remained stagnant for long periods due to the inefficiencies of the commune system and lack of individual incentives. Historical data indicates that the per capita grain output in 1978 was almost the same as it was in the mid-1950s. This stagnation was a primary driver for the agricultural reforms introduced in 1978.
Statement 2 is Correct.
Despite economic stagnation in certain sectors, the pre-reform period saw significant state investment in basic social infrastructure. The establishment of a robust foundation in education and healthcare (e.g., the "barefoot doctors" initiative) created a healthy and literate workforce. This human capital was instrumental in driving the rapid growth and improvement in social indicators observed during the post-reform period.
Statement 3 is Correct.
The commune system, introduced during the Great Leap Forward (1958), organized rural households into large collective units. While it failed to maximize productivity, it succeeded in ensuring a relatively equitable distribution of food grains and basic necessities among the rural population, preventing the extreme inequalities often associated with market economies.