Question

Assertion A: In a typical watershed project, development is started at the top of drainage basin and proceeds down the slopes to lowlands.
Reason R: Upper reaches in the watershed are occupied mostly by forests which are often degraded and most in need of repair; also treating upper parts of basin reduce runoff and thus protects lower lands.
In light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
• B. Both A and R are true but R is NOT the correct explanation of A
• C. A is true but R is false
• D. A is false but R is true

Hint:

Watershed development: top to bottom approach.
Upper reaches: forests, need protection.
Reduces runoff and soil erosion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Watershed development follows a specific approach.
It starts from the upper reaches.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
No specific formula.
Need to understand watershed development principles.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
Assertion A: Development starts at the top of the drainage basin.
This is true.
Reason R: Upper reaches have degraded forests and need repair.
Treating upper parts reduces runoff and protects lower lands.
This is also true and explains why development starts from the top.
Thus, both are correct and R explains A.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Hence, the correct option is (A).