The economic strength of a country is measured by the development of —

Correct option is C

Correct Answer: (C) Manufacturing industries
Explanation:
→ Manufacturing industries are a key indicator of the economic strength of a country. The development of these industries reflects the country’s industrial capacity, technological advancement, and ability to produce goods for both domestic consumption and export. It also often leads to the creation of jobs, increased national income, and economic diversification. A robust manufacturing sector is typically associated with higher levels of economic development and is a crucial factor in the economic growth of a country.
→ While agriculture is essential for providing food and raw materials, its dominance in an economy often indicates a lower level of industrialization and economic development.
→ Informal industries typically operate outside the formal economy, often without proper regulations, and although they provide employment, they are not considered a measure of a country’s overall economic strength.
→ Urban services, such as retail, healthcare, and finance, contribute to the economy but are often more reflective of the service sector's growth rather than a direct measure of industrial or manufacturing power.
Information Booster:
→ The manufacturing sector includes industries like textiles, machinery, chemicals, electronics, and automotive. These industries contribute significantly to GDP and employment.
→ Economies with a strong manufacturing base tend to have higher productivity and greater innovation.
→ Countries like Germany, Japan, and the United States are often cited as examples of highly developed economies due to their advanced manufacturing industries.
→ Agriculture and urban services play important roles, but it is the growth in manufacturing industries that often marks the transition from a developing economy to a developed one.
→ The Industrial Revolution is a historical example where the shift to manufacturing significantly boosted the economic strength of countries, especially in Europe and North America.
Additional Information (Other Options):
Option (A) – Informal industries may provide employment but do not contribute significantly to a country's long-term economic strength or development.
Option (B) – Agricultural activities are vital but usually indicate a less industrialized economy unless coupled with mechanization and modernization.
Option (D) – Urban services can reflect a developed economy but are not as direct a measure of economic strength as manufacturing industries.