Question

(i) State the meaning of Special Economic Zone (SEZ).
(ii) Discuss the 'One Child Policy' adopted by China.

Hint:

SEZ → growth & exports
One Child Policy → population control with side effects

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
An SEZ is a specifically defined geographical area that has different economic laws than the rest of the country.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- SEZs are created to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and boost exports.
- Companies operating in these zones enjoy several incentives like tax holidays, duty-free import of raw materials, and simplified labor laws.
- In China, SEZs played a massive role in their rapid export-led growth. India also adopted this model later.
Step 3: Final Answer:
An SEZ is a designated area with liberal economic laws used as a tool for export promotion and industrial development.
B
Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
To control the exploding population, China introduced the One Child Policy in 1979.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- The policy mandated that most couples in the country could have only one child.
- Impacts: It was highly successful in reducing the population growth rate.
- Consequences:
1. Aging Population: After a few decades, it led to a situation where there were more elderly people than young workers.
2. Gender Imbalance: A preference for male children led to a skewed sex ratio.
3. Labor Shortage: Recently, China has relaxed this policy (first to two, then to three children) to tackle the shrinking workforce.
Step 3: Final Answer:
While effective in controlling numbers, the One Child Policy created significant demographic challenges for China's future.