With reference to the passage, which of the following inferences can be drawn?<br/>1. Demographic dividend is an essential condition for a country to rapidly increase its economic growth rate.<br/>2. Promotion of higher education is an essential condition for a country for its rapid economic growth.<br/><br/>Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. Demographic dividend is an essential condition for rapid economic growth — Not a valid inference. A demographic dividend can help growth, but it is not essential; countries have grown rapidly without it, and it yields benefits only with jobs, skills and policy support. Verdict: Incorrect.

2. Promotion of higher education is an essential condition for rapid economic growth — Also not a valid inference. Higher education supports productivity and innovation, but calling it essential is too absolute; rapid growth can occur through multiple pathways including basic education, manufacturing, infrastructure and reforms. Verdict: Incorrect.

Hence, neither 1 nor 2 can be drawn as a necessary inference.