Energy poverty and human development – UGC NET Question

Statements A, B, C and E are correct because they define energy poverty, describe health impacts of dirty cooking fuels, highlight development benefits of electricity and show how decentralised renewables can reach remote populations. D is wrong since women and girls often bear disproportionate burdens from fuel collection and smoke exposure, and F is wrong because efficiency measures can lower energy costs and improve service levels. Hence, the correct combination must contain A, B, C and E while excluding D and F.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it omits E, thereby ignoring the role of off-grid and mini-grid renewables in extending access where central grids are weak or absent. Without E, the answer overlooks an important solution emphasised in energy access policies.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect as it includes D, which denies the gendered nature of energy poverty, while also excluding C. This results in a combination that underestimates both gender impacts and the multiple development benefits of electrification.

Option C:
Option C is correct since it brings together all statements that accurately capture definitions, impacts and solutions while rejecting those that deny gender linkages and the role of efficiency. It therefore reflects the multi-dimensional understanding of energy poverty in the syllabus.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it accepts F, claiming efficiency is irrelevant, and omits A. This combination ignores the basic definition of energy poverty and accepts a false statement about efficiency’s role, so it cannot be correct.