Answer
In both cases, it is possible to produce the desired torque.
Work Step by Step
We know $$\tau=Fl$$
a) If force $F$ is large, but $F$ is applied close to, even at, the axis of rotation, then $l$ is small or zero. The torque produced will be small or zero as well.
b) In reverse, if $F$ is small, but it is applied far from the axis of rotation so that $l$ is large, it is possible to produce a large torque.
