one way of speeding up the economic development of a country is by encouraging

Analyze the question: It asks which action can speed up a country's economic development. Economic development means a sustained rise in output, living standards, and productive capacity, so we need the option that builds that capacity.

Explain the concept: Economic growth and development depend on capital formation. Capital formation happens when people save part of their income instead of consuming it all. Banks and other financial institutions then channel those savings into investment, such as factories, roads, machinery, and farms. This increases output, creates jobs, raises incomes, and leads to further growth.

Evaluate each option:

• A. Consumption of consumer goods: Consumption satisfies immediate wants but does not build productive capacity. Over-emphasis on it reduces savings and slows development.
• B. Early marriage: This tends to increase population growth and dependency. It does not directly raise productive capacity, and it can strain resources.
• C. Importation of more consumer goods: This drains foreign exchange, hurts local industries, and worsens the balance of payments. It does not build the economy.
• D. Savings and investment: Savings provide funds for investment, which leads to capital formation, higher productivity, job creation, and growth. This is the correct choice.

Answer: The correct option is D. savings and investment.

Exam tip: In development economics questions, look for words linked to capital formation, such as savings, investment, productivity, industrialization, and education/skills. Options that stress consumption or importing consumer goods are usually distractors.