NCERT Class 11 Economics Indian Economic Development: Chapter 6 — EMPLOYMENT: GROWTH,
This chapter, "Employment: Growth, Informalisation and Other Issues," from NCERT's Indian Economic Development for Class 11, delves into the fundamental concepts of employment. It defines key terms like economic activity, worker, workforce, and unemployment. The chapter examines the participation of men and women across various economic sectors and analyzes the nature and extent of unemployment in India. It also highlights government initiatives aimed at generating employment opportunities. The text emphasizes the importance of work for individual self-worth and societal contribution, citing Mahatma Gandhi's views on work and machinery. Understanding employment patterns is crucial for human resource planning and addressing social issues like exploitation and child labour, contributing to national development.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | Economics |
| Book | Indian Economic Development |
| Chapter | Chapter 6 — EMPLOYMENT : GROWTH, |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 408 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand basic employment concepts: economic activity, worker, workforce, unemployment.
- Analyze gender participation in economic activities across sectors.
- Identify the nature and extent of unemployment.
- Assess government initiatives for employment generation.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Economic activity | Work undertaken for earning a living and contributing to national income. |
| Worker | A person engaged in an economic activity. |
| Workforce | All the workers in a country or region. |
| Unemployment | The state of being without work when one is willing and able to work. |
| Labour-saving machinery | Machinery designed to reduce the need for human labor. |
| Informalisation | The growth of the informal sector in employment. |
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Practice questions
- What is the difference between a worker and the workforce? Answer: A worker is an individual engaged in an economic activity, while the workforce comprises all such workers in a region or country.
- According to Mahatma Gandhi, what was the issue with the 'craze' for machinery? Answer: Mahatma Gandhi objected to the 'craze' for labour-saving machinery because it led to widespread unemployment and starvation.
- Why is work important for individuals beyond earning a living? Answer: Work provides a sense of self-worth, accomplishment, and enables meaningful relationships with others.
Frequently asked questions
What are the basic concepts related to employment discussed in this chapter?
The chapter discusses concepts like economic activity, worker, workforce, and unemployment.
What does the chapter say about women's participation in economic activities?
The chapter aims to help learners understand the nature of participation of men and women in various economic activities across different sectors.
What is the significance of studying employment patterns?
Studying employment patterns provides insights into the quality and nature of employment, helps in human resource planning, and addresses social issues.
What role does work play in an individual's life?
Work is important for earning a living, providing a sense of self-worth, accomplishment, and enabling meaningful connections with others.
What is the main concern Mahatma Gandhi raised about machinery?
Mahatma Gandhi was concerned about the 'craze' for labour-saving machinery, which he believed led to mass unemployment and starvation.
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 11 Economics — Indian Economic Development — Chapter 6 — EMPLOYMENT : GROWTH,. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.