Which industry is closely associated with 'cluster development' and the second-largest sector in terms of job creation in India after agriculture?​

Correct option is B

The correct answer is (B) Textile and apparel

Explanation:

• The textile and apparel industry in India is closely associated with cluster development, which refers to the concentration of enterprises and resources in a specific geographical area to promote collective growth and competitiveness.
• This industry is the second-largest sector in terms of job creation in India, after agriculture. It plays a significant role in the country's economy, providing employment to millions of people, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas.
• The cluster development approach helps in improving the competitiveness of textile and apparel units by promoting collaboration, improving technology, and reducing operational costs.

Information Booster:

• India has several textile and apparel clusters, such as in Surat, Bhiwandi, and Tirupur, which are known for their significant contributions to both domestic and international markets.
• The government's initiatives like the Textile Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) and the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) focus on promoting skill development and modernizing textile clusters.

Additional Knowledge:

• Option A: Automobile
• Incorrect. The automobile industry is a significant sector in India but is not the second-largest in terms of job creation after agriculture, nor is it as closely associated with cluster development as textiles.
• Option C: Pharmaceuticals
• Incorrect. The pharmaceutical industry is essential to India's economy, but it is not as closely associated with cluster development as the textile and apparel sector.
• Option D: Steel
• Incorrect. The steel industry is critical to India's industrial development but is not as closely linked with cluster development and job creation as the textile and apparel industry.