Step 1: Understanding the Question:
• A machine of cash price ₹74,500 is bought on hire purchase on January 1, 2024, with ₹20,000 paid immediately.
• Interest at 5% p.a. is charged by the vendor on the outstanding balance, and we need the interest for the first year (to December 31, 2024).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
• Cash price ₹74,500 less down payment ₹20,000 = ₹54,500 outstanding on January 1, 2024.
• Interest for 2024 = 54,500 × 5/100 = ₹2,725.
• The old solution charged interest on the full cash price (₹3,725), ignoring the ₹20,000 paid at the start, which is wrong.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (C) ₹2,725.