Consider the following statements:
Statement-I: According to the United Nations’ '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?
- A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II explains Statement-I
- B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct, but Statement-II does not explain Statement-I
- C.Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- D.Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: C. Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
The UN's World Water Development Report indeed indicated India's significant share in global groundwater extraction. However, Statement II overstates the necessity of this extraction solely for drinking water and sanitation for its population. While India's population is large, the groundwater extraction is driven by multiple sectors, including agriculture, which is a primary consumer.
Source: UPSC gs1 2023