UPSC Prelims 2008 Q11: Indian Economy – Infrastructure & Industry
In August 2006, the Government of India notified the Rural Electrification Policy. This policy
aims at provision of access to all households by which year?
- (a) 2008
- (b) 2009
- (c) 2010
- (d) 2012
Answer: (b) 2009
Explanation
Target year for universal rural household electrification access
India's Rural Electrification Policy (2006) set a specific deadline for providing electricity access to all rural households.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) 2008 | Incorrect | Too early for the policy's actual target |
| (b) 2009 | Correct | The Rural Electrification Policy, 2006 aimed to provide access to electricity for all households by 2009 |
| (c) 2010 | Incorrect | Not the policy's original target year |
| (d) 2012 | Incorrect | Not the policy's original target year |
Rural Electrification Policy facts:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Notified | August 2006 |
| Target year for universal access | 2009 |
Answer: (b) 2009.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. 2008 is too early for the policy's stated target.
- (b) CORRECT. The policy aimed for universal rural household electricity access by 2009.
- (c) Incorrect. 2010 is not the policy's original target year.
- (d) Incorrect. 2012 is also not the original target year.
Key point
India's Rural Electrification Policy (2006) aimed to provide access to electricity for all households by 2009.
Remember
Rural Electrification Policy, 2006: aimed for access to all households by 2009.
Common mistakes
- Confusing this policy's 2009 target with later revised/extended deadlines.
- Not knowing the 2006 notification date of this specific policy.
- Mixing up this target with other rural development scheme timelines.
Exam tip
Rural Electrification Policy (2006): target year for universal household access = 2009.
Sources
- Ministry of Power, Government of India — Rural Electrification Policy, 2006 (notified 23 August 2006)
- Rural Electrification Corporation Limited — Annual Report 2007–08