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.