Correct answer: (c) 8
Explanation
- A
4
Option (a) claims that 4 districts of Uttar Pradesh were covered under the Aspirational District Programme up to June 2021. This number is an underestimation of the actual scale of the initiative in the state. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
- B
6
Option (b) states that 6 districts were included under this NITI Aayog scheme by June 2021. While Uttar Pradesh has multiple aspirational districts, official monitoring reports state a higher figure. Thus, this choice is incorrect.
- C
8
Option (c) asserts that 8 districts of Uttar Pradesh were covered under the Aspirational District Programme run by NITI Aayog up to June 2021, which aligns precisely with the official data released by the government regarding the implementation and monitoring of this developmental initiative across backward districts. This makes it the correct and accurate answer choice among all the given alternatives.
- D
10
Option (d) mentions 10 districts, which overestimates the count designated under this specific phase of the NITI Aayog program for Uttar Pradesh. Consequently, this option is not the right answer.
Summary. Official key is (c) representing 8 districts of Uttar Pradesh covered under the Aspirational District Programme by June 2021. The NITI Aayog initiative specifically targets underdeveloped districts to rapidly transform them across key social and economic sectors. Aspirants must carefully distinguish between state-specific allocations and national totals when studying central schemes. Memorizing exact figures for flagship government programs like this is crucial for UPPSC Prelims. Option (c) is the correct answer because it accurately matches the official statistical release.