General Studies · Economic and Social Development

Directions: Read the passage given below and answer the question that follows. The publication of results triggers a rush for seats in higher education institutions, and, in turn, another series of examinations to qualify for these. This transition to higher education is important as it determines the quantity and quality of human capital, which is vital for economic growth. In developing economies, including India, thi s transition is plagued by a mismatch between demand and supp ly. What could be the possible reasons for the demand-supply mismatch described in the passage? I) In the case of premier institutions, multiple rounds of filtering mechanisms intensify competition to enter the institution, resulting in focused elimination. II) Demand-supply mismatches in higher education arise due to the incongruence between the aspirations of students and parents. III) Mismatch in demand and supply is determined by market forces in private institutions and government policies in public institutions. IV) Public institutions that are funded by the government have a higher fee structure than other institutions. V) The availability of courses and institutions gets concentrated in some specific regions, with other regions having generic courses with outdated topics and syllabi.