UPSC CSE Prelims

Correct Option: B Explanation: The Service Area Approach (1989) was introduced within India’s Lead Bank Scheme to assign villages to designated bank branches for coordinated rural credit planning. Option-wise Analysis: A (Incorrect): The Integrated Rural Development Programme targeted rural poverty, but did not administer this banking approach. B (Correct): Lead Bank Scheme provided the framework for the service-area allocation. C (Incorrect): MGNREGS guarantees rural employment and arose much later. D (Incorrect): The National Skill Development Mission focuses on skills rather than branch service areas.