Component of PQLI –
**Core Concept**
The Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) is a composite indicator used to measure the quality of life in a country, encompassing basic needs such as literacy rate, infant mortality rate, and life expectancy at age one.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The PQLI is a weighted average of three basic needs indicators: literacy rate, infant mortality rate, and life expectancy at age one. These indicators are chosen because they are essential for a country's human development and are considered to be a good reflection of a nation's quality of life. The PQLI is often used as an alternative to the Human Development Index (HDI) as it is easier to calculate and more representative of a country's basic needs.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the PQLI is not based on a country's GDP or economic indicators.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the PQLI is not a measure of a country's environmental quality or pollution levels.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the PQLI is not a measure of a country's access to clean water or sanitation facilities.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The PQLI is a useful tool for policymakers and researchers to assess the quality of life in a country and make informed decisions about resource allocation.
**Correct Answer:** D. Literacy rate