Question

Read the following Assertion (A) and Reason (R) and choose the correct answer from the given options:

Assertion (A): The digital divide in India is a serious national issue.

Reason (R): The concept of knowledge economy will become a reality when the civil society addresses the issue of digital divide.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are true.
• B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
• D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Hint:

In assertion-reason questions, always carefully analyze if the reason truly explains the assertion, or if its related but not the exact cause of the statement in the assertion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Analyzing the Assertion (A) 
The assertion states that "The digital divide in India is a serious national issue." This is a true statement. 
The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have easy access to digital technology and the internet and those who do not, leading to inequality in opportunities and resources. 
In India, where there are vast rural-urban disparities, the digital divide is a serious issue as it affects education, healthcare, employment, and other key sectors.
Step 2: Analyzing the Reason (R) 
The reason states, "The concept of knowledge economy will become a reality when the civil society addresses the issue of digital divide." This is also a true statement. 
A knowledge economy is one in which growth is dependent on the ability to produce, process, and distribute knowledge rather than traditional industries. 
The digital divide is an obstacle to the development of such an economy, and addressing it is essential for the progress of a knowledge-based society. 
Step 3: Evaluating the Relationship Between (A) and (R) 
Although both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not directly explain the assertion. Heres why:
The assertion (A) talks about the significance of the digital divide in India, while the reason (R) focuses on how solving the digital divide can lead to the development of a knowledge economy.
While the digital divide is indeed a barrier to the knowledge economy, there are other factors, such as infrastructure, education systems, and government policies, that also play a role in realizing the concept of a knowledge economy. Therefore, while the reason is true, it does not directly explain the assertion. 
Step 4: Conclusion 
Based on this analysis, the correct answer is:
Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). Answer: (2) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).