Step 1: The lime-soda process is used for softening hard water by removing calcium and magnesium ions.
\[
{Ca}^{2+} + {Lime/Soda} \rightarrow {CaCO}_3 \downarrow
\]
\[
{Mg}^{2+} + {Lime} \rightarrow {Mg(OH)}_2 \downarrow
\]
Step 2: This process does not remove pathogens, iron, or nitrates.
Thus, the correct answer is (C) Hardness.