Question

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R). Assertion (A): There is direct economic loss in case of occurrence of disasters. Reason (R): Direct economic loss attributed to disasters has increased from 2005 to 2019. Choose the most appropriate answer.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
• B. Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Hint:

If the reason gives only extra information or a trend, but does not explain why the assertion is true, choose the option: both are correct but reason is not the correct explanation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept: Disasters cause direct and indirect losses. Direct economic losses include damage to buildings, infrastructure, crops, houses, roads, bridges, and other physical assets.

Step 1: Checking Assertion (A).
The assertion says that disasters cause direct economic loss. This is correct because disasters damage property, infrastructure, and productive assets. \[ \text{Assertion (A)} = \text{Correct} \]

Step 2: Checking Reason (R).
The reason says that direct economic loss attributed to disasters increased from 2005 to 2019. This is also correct as disaster-related economic losses have increased over time due to higher exposure, urbanisation, and asset concentration. \[ \text{Reason (R)} = \text{Correct} \]

Step 3: Checking whether Reason explains Assertion.
Reason (R) tells about an increase in disaster losses over a time period. But it does not explain why disasters cause direct economic loss. It only gives a trend. Therefore, both statements are correct, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.