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?

1. A. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
2. B. Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement- II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
3. C. Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect
4. D. Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Answer: C

Explanation

Let’s evaluate the given statements:
* **Statement I**: Correct. The United Nations ‘World Water Development Report, 2022’ indeed highlighted that India accounts for approximately 26% (more than a quarter) of the world’s total groundwater abstraction, making it the largest groundwater user globally.
* **Statement II**: Incorrect. While India has a large population, the primary reason for its extensive groundwater extraction is not solely for drinking water and sanitation. The same report indicates that about 89% of India’s groundwater abstraction is used for irrigation, driven by agricultural practices, crop choices, and policies like free electricity for irrigation. Therefore, the statement misrepresents the main purpose and necessity of this high level of extraction.
This question highlights critical environmental and resource management issues in India, particularly water scarcity and unsustainable practices, making it highly relevant for UPSC Environment and Current Affairs.