With reference to the Indian economy after the 1991 economic liberalization, consider the following statements: 1. Worker productivity (₹ per worker at 2004-05 prices) increased in urban areas while it decreased in rural areas. 2. The percentage share of rural areas in the workforce steadily increased. 3. In rural areas, the growth in non-farm economy increased. 4. The growth rate in rural employment decreased. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. Statement 1 is incorrect. Post-1991 economic liberalization, worker productivity generally increased in both urban and rural areas, although the rates of increase might have differed. A decrease in rural productivity was not the general trend. 2. Statement 2 is incorrect. The period after liberalization saw a gradual shift of the workforce away from agriculture (predominantly rural) towards services and industry. The percentage share of rural areas in the workforce did not steadily increase; it tended to decrease over time. 3. Statement 3 is correct. The post-liberalization period witnessed significant diversification in the rural economy. There was notable growth in the non-farm economy in rural areas, including activities like construction, trade, transport, and services. 4. Statement 4 is correct. While the economy grew, employment generation, particularly in agriculture, did not keep pace. Studies indicate that the growth rate in rural employment decreased during certain periods after liberalization compared to earlier decades. 5. Therefore, statements 3 and 4 are correct.