Question

Two statements are given below. They are Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and choose the correct option:
Assertion (A): The restoration of ecological balance is the main focus of drought prone area programme.
Reason (R): Growing population pressure is forcing to utilize the marginal lands for agriculture.

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

Hint:

In Assertion-Reason questions, verify each statement independently first. Then check if the Reason logically explains the Assertion. Sometimes both are true but unrelated.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understand the Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP).
The Drought Prone Area Programme (DPAP) was launched by the Government of India in 1973-74. Its main objectives include:

• Restoration of ecological balance
• Conservation and development of natural resources
• Minimizing the adverse effects of drought
• Promoting sustainable livelihoods in drought-prone areas

Step 2: Verify the Assertion (A).
Assertion (A) states: "The restoration of ecological balance is the main focus of drought prone area programme." This is true} because DPAP specifically aims at restoring ecological balance through measures like afforestation, water conservation, and soil conservation in drought-affected areas.
Step 3: Verify the Reason (R).
Reason (R) states: "Growing population pressure is forcing to utilize the marginal lands for agriculture." This is also true}. Increasing population leads to greater demand for food, which forces farmers to cultivate marginal and sub-marginal lands that are less suitable for agriculture.
Step 4: Determine if (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

• The Assertion (A) talks about the focus of DPAP being ecological restoration.
• The Reason (R) talks about population pressure forcing marginal land cultivation.
• While both statements are true, (R) does not directly explain why DPAP focuses on ecological restoration.
• DPAP focuses on ecological restoration because drought-prone areas face ecological degradation, not specifically because of population pressure on marginal lands.
• The two statements are independent phenomena related to land use and environmental issues.

Step 5: Analysis of each option.

• (A) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A): Incorrect. (R) does not explain (A).
• (B) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A): Correct.} Both statements are true, but they are not causally related.
• (C) (A) is incorrect but (R) is correct: Incorrect. (A) is correct.
• (D) (A) is correct but (R) is incorrect: Incorrect. (R) is also correct.

Final Answer:} (B) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).