The fiscal deficit of a state indicates:

A surplus of revenue over expenditure
A shortfall of revenue over expenditure
Balance between revenue and expenditure
Total outstanding liabilities

The correct answer is: A shortfall of revenue over expenditure.

Fiscal deficit is the difference between a government’s total revenue and total expenditure during a particular financial year. A fiscal deficit occurs when a government’s expenditure exceeds its revenue. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as a recession, a decrease in tax revenue, or an increase in government spending.

A fiscal deficit can be financed through a number of means, such as borrowing from the public, selling government assets, or printing money. However, a large and persistent fiscal deficit can be a sign of economic problems and can lead to inflation.

The other options are incorrect because:

  • A surplus of revenue over expenditure is called a fiscal surplus.
  • A balance between revenue and expenditure is called a balanced budget.
  • Total outstanding liabilities is the total amount of money that a government owes.