Pick out the approximate percentage of the worlds population engaged i...
B is the correct option.Globally, about 1 billion people work in the agricultural sector, approx. 45-50% of the population employed in 2017.
Pick out the approximate percentage of the worlds population engaged i...
**Approximate Percentage of the World's Population Engaged in Agriculture:**
The correct answer is option 'B' which states that approximately 50 percent of the world's population is engaged in agriculture. This percentage represents a significant portion of the global workforce involved in various agricultural activities.
**Explanation:**
1. **Definition of Agriculture:** Agriculture refers to the science and practice of cultivating plants and rearing animals for food, fiber, medicinal plants, and other products used to sustain human life. It includes activities such as farming, fishing, forestry, and livestock production.
2. **Importance of Agriculture:** Agriculture plays a crucial role in providing food security, reducing poverty, and supporting economic development. It is the primary source of livelihood for many people, especially in developing countries.
3. **Global Population:** The current global population stands at approximately 7.9 billion people (as of 2021). To determine the percentage engaged in agriculture, we need to consider the number of individuals involved in agricultural activities.
4. **Distribution of Agricultural Workforce:** The distribution of the agricultural workforce varies across different regions and countries. In developing nations, the agricultural sector tends to employ a significant percentage of the population, whereas in developed countries, this percentage is relatively lower due to mechanization and industrialization.
5. **Factors Influencing Agricultural Employment:** Several factors contribute to the high percentage of the global population engaged in agriculture, including:
- Economic Factors: Limited job opportunities in other sectors, low wages, and lack of alternative livelihood options lead people to engage in agricultural activities.
- Demographic Factors: Rapid population growth, particularly in developing countries, increases the demand for food and agricultural products.
- Cultural and Social Factors: Traditional farming practices, cultural heritage, and social norms often encourage individuals to continue engaging in agricultural activities.
6. **Regional Disparities:** The percentage of the population engaged in agriculture varies significantly across regions. In Sub-Saharan Africa and parts of Asia, the agricultural sector employs a majority of the workforce, while in North America and Europe, the percentage is relatively lower.
7. **Technological Advancements:** The introduction of modern agricultural technologies, machinery, and techniques has led to increased productivity and reduced labor requirements. This has resulted in a decline in the percentage of the population engaged in agriculture in some regions.
8. **Conclusion:** In conclusion, approximately 50 percent of the world's population is engaged in agriculture. This percentage represents the significant role that agriculture plays in providing sustenance and livelihoods for a substantial portion of the global workforce.