UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Sustainable development is most widely defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This definition captures both intergenerational equity and the idea of long-term environmental stewardship. It recognises that development and environment are interlinked and that economic progress should respect ecological limits. Therefore, option A reflects the accepted Brundtland Commission definition and is conceptually complete.

Option A:
Option A captures the balance between development and environmental protection by explicitly mentioning present and future generations. It includes the idea that resources should be used in a way that does not undermine long-term human welfare. It is aligned with international understanding and UGC NET syllabus discussions on sustainable development.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it focuses only on economic growth, ignoring environmental and social dimensions. Sustainable development emphasises that growth must be ecologically sustainable and socially equitable. Growth that damages ecosystems and increases inequality cannot be called sustainable.

Option C:
Option C is incorrect because it suggests stopping all development, which is neither practical nor desirable. Sustainable development aims at reconciling development with environmental conservation, not rejecting development. A total halt in development would also harm human welfare and poverty alleviation.

Option D:
Option D is incomplete as it refers only to the poor and only to basic needs. Sustainable development concerns the needs of all people and emphasises both present and future generations. It also includes broader issues such as quality of life, resource use and environmental protection.