Correct answer: (b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation
- A
1 only
1 only. 36% over-exploited/critical is too high a share as keyed.
- B
2 and 3 only
2 and 3 only. CGWA is under the Environment (Protection) Act; India has the world’s largest groundwater-irrigated area. The 36% district figure fails.
- C
2 only
2 only. Under-counts the irrigation-area fact.
- D
1 and 3 only
1 and 3 only. Keeps the inflated 36%.
Summary. Official key is (b) 2 and 3 only. Central Ground Water Authority was constituted under the EPA, 1986. India leads the world in area under groundwater irrigation. A 36% ‘over-exploited or critical districts’ line is not the keyed statistic.
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
-
2018 · Q81 · General Studies · 2 marks
Which of the following is/are the possible consequence/s of heavy sand mining in river beds? 1. Decreased salinity in the river 2. Pollution of groundwater 3. Lowering of the water-table Select the correct answer using the code given below: -
2023 · Q76 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements : Statement-I : According to the United Nation's 'World Water Development Report, 2022', India extracts more than a quarter of the world's groundwater withdrawal each year. Statement-II : India needs to extract more than a quarter of the world's groundwater each year to satisfy the drinking water and sanitation needs of almost 18% of world's population living in its territory. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?