The correct answer is: a) Overall development level compared to others.
The Human Development Index (HDI) is a composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators, which are used to rank countries into four tiers of human development. A country’s HDI value is a summary measure of its achievements in key areas of human development: a long and healthy life, being knowledgeable and have a decent standard of living.
Meghalaya’s HDI ranking among Indian states indicates its overall development level compared to others. In 2020, Meghalaya had an HDI of 0.712, ranking it 17th among Indian states. This means that Meghalaya has achieved a high level of human development, with a high life expectancy, high levels of education, and a high standard of living.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option b) Government’s popularity is not a measure of human development.
- Option c) Natural resource abundance is not a measure of human development.
- Option d) Climatic conditions are not a measure of human development.