Consider the following statements : 1. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme was launched during 1996–97 to provide loan assistance to poor farmers. 2. The Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974–75 for the development of water-use efficiency. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Why the answer is (b)
• Statement 2 is correct: the Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974–75 to bridge the gap between irrigation potential created and utilised, improving water-use efficiency through field channels and land levelling.
• Statement 1 is wrong: the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (1996–97) gave Central Loan Assistance to State Governments to complete large irrigation projects, not loans to poor farmers.
• Both are now under PMKSY.
• Hence 2 only, option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 1 only
- Statement 1 is wrong: AIBP assisted States, not farmers.
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- Statement 1 is wrong.
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
- Statement 2 is correct: CADP began in 1974–75.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2015, held on 23 August 2015. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.