Amartya Sen expanded the concept of 'Development' to include:
A. Building dependence of developing countries on developed countries B. Building people's capacities C. Enhancing people's freedom D. Enhancing people's income through capital investments E. Reducing inequalities
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

Amartya Sen, a Nobel Prize-winning economist, redefined the concept of development by shifting the focus from purely economic growth to human capabilities and freedoms. His Capability Approach emphasizes that development should enhance people’s ability to live the kind of life they value rather than just increasing income.
Key components of Sen’s concept of Development include:
· Building people's capacities (B) – Development should empower individuals by improving their education, health, and skills so they can achieve their full potential.
· Enhancing people's freedom (C) – True development occurs when people have the freedom to make choices, access opportunities, and live without oppression or discrimination.
· Reducing inequalities (E) – Development should aim to reduce poverty and bridge social and economic inequalities, ensuring a fairer society.
Information Booster:
Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach:
1. Development = Expansion of Freedoms – People should have real choices and opportunities to lead fulfilling lives.
2. Focus on Human Well-Being – Health, education, gender equality, and empowerment are key indicators of development.
3. Economic Growth as a Means, Not an End – Increasing income is not sufficient; it must lead to better living conditions.
4. Reducing Inequalities – Addressing disparities in health, education, and political rights is crucial for real development.
Key Contributions of Amartya Sen:
Human Development Index (HDI) – He influenced the creation of HDI, which measures development using life expectancy, education, and income. Poverty as Capability Deprivation – Poverty is not just about low income; it is the lack of access to opportunities and choices. Freedom-Centered Development – True progress happens when people can freely participate in economic and political life.
Additional Knowledge:
· Building dependence of developing countries on developed countries (A) – This contradicts Sen’s idea of self-sufficiency and empowerment. Development should reduce dependence, not increase it.
· Enhancing people's income through capital investments (D) – While economic growth is important, Sen argued that income alone is not a true measure of development. What matters is how income translates into real freedoms and improved quality of life.