(a) "Recent evidence suggests that overuse of groundwater is becoming a serious threat in many parts of the country." Evaluate the statement in the…

(i) Sustainability refers to that kind of economic development that should take place without damaging the environment and development in the present should not compromise with the need of the future generations.

(ii) Ground water is an example of renewable resources. These resources are replenished by nature.

(iii) The over use ground water is becoming a serious threat in many parts of the country due to population growth and agricultural practices.

(iv) Excessive use of ground water for irrigation can deplete ground water level.

(v) A lack of effective policies and regulation can lead to unsustainable ground water use.

(vi) About $\displaystyle 300$ districts have reported a water level decline of over $\displaystyle 4$ meters during the past $\displaystyle 20$ years.

(vii) Nearly one third of the country is over using their ground water reserves.

(viii) In another $\displaystyle 25$ years, $\displaystyle 60$ percent of the country would be doing the same if the present way of using this resource continues.

(ix) Ground water overuse is particularly found in the agriculturally prosperous regions of Punjab and Western Uttar Pradesh etc.

(x) Judicious use of water resources.

(xi) Control over dumping of excessive and toxic waste on land to prevent pollution of ground water.

(b) “The development goals of different categories of people may differ.” Evaluate the statement.

(i) Each one of us seeks different things in our life.

(ii) People seek things that are most important for them, which can fulfill their aspirations or desires.

(iii) At times, two persons or group of persons may seek things which are conflicting.

(iv) For example, a girl expects as much freedom and opportunities as her brother and that he also shares in the household work.

(v) What may be the development for one may not be the development of others.

(vi) For example, an industrialist may want more dams for electricity but for the people who are displaced might resent this.