Correct Answer: Generating employment opportunities

Solution : The correct answer is (b) Generating employment opportunities

Small-Scale Industries play a crucial role in rural development by generating employment opportunities in rural areas. They provide avenues for local entrepreneurship, skill development, and income generation. SSIs are typically labor-intensive and have the potential to absorb a significant portion of the rural workforce.

By establishing small-scale industries in rural areas, there is a reduction in the dependency on agriculture as the sole source of livelihood. This helps in diversifying the rural economy and providing alternative employment options to the rural population.

Furthermore, the establishment of SSIs in rural areas can contribute to the overall socio-economic development of the region. It can lead to the growth of ancillary industires, improved infrastructure, and enhanced local purchasing power.

Overall, Small-Scale Industries in rural areas have a significant impact on rural development by creating employment opportunities, fostering economic growth, and reducing the need for migration from rural to urban areas in search of employment.