Consider the following statements: Human capital formation as a concep

Consider the following statements:
Human capital formation as a concept is better explained in terms of a process which enables

  • individuals of a country to accumulate more capital.
  • increasing the knowledge, skill levels and capacities of the people of the country.
  • accumulation of tangible wealth.
  • accumulation of intangible wealth.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1 and 2
2 only
2 and 4
1, 3 and 4
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2018
The correct answer is C.
Human capital formation refers to the process of increasing the stock of human capital within a population. Human capital consists of the knowledge, skills, competencies, and other attributes embodied in individuals that are relevant to economic activity.
Statement 1 is incorrect: Accumulating *more capital* generally refers to physical or financial capital, not human capital.
Statement 2 is correct: Increasing the knowledge, skill levels, and capacities of people directly describes the process of human capital formation (e.g., through education, training, healthcare).
Statement 3 is incorrect: Human capital is considered an *intangible* form of wealth, not tangible.
Statement 4 is correct: Human capital formation involves the accumulation of intangible wealth in the form of knowledge, skills, health, etc.
Therefore, statements 2 and 4 correctly explain human capital formation.
Human capital is considered a key driver of economic growth and development. Investments in human capital through education, health, and training are analogous to investments in physical capital; they enhance productivity and earning potential. The concept was significantly developed by economists like Gary Becker and Theodore Schultz.