Why is the economic strength of a country measured by the development of manufacturing industries? Explain with examples. (CBSE 2018)

Manufacturing is the Production of goods in large quantities after processing the raw materials into more valuable products.

The manufacturing industry is important for the development of a country.

The manufacturing industry is important because:

• Manufacturing industries help in modernizing agriculture, by producing mechanised equipment that enhances the productivity of the farming sector, which forms the backbone of our economy.

• manufacturing industries also reduce the heavy dependence of people on agricultural income. This becomes possible because of the creation of new jobs in secondary and tertiary sectors.

• Industrial development helps in the eradication of unemployment and poverty, as this industry generates a huge number of informal jobs.

• Export of manufactured goods expands trade and commerce and brings in much needed foreign exchange. This boosts the economy of the nation.

• A country with a high level of manufacturing activities becomes prosperous.