Question

Read the following statements carefully:
Statement 1: In order to address the problem of water and air pollution in India, the Government of India had established the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Statement 2: Deforestation leads to the permanent destruction of indigenous forests.

• A. Statement 1 is true and Statement 2 is false.
• B. Statement 1 is false and Statement 2 is true.
• C. Both Statements 1 and 2 are true.
• D. Both Statements 1 and 2 are false.

Hint:

Environmental bodies like CPCB are created to regulate and mitigate pollution, whereas deforestation impacts depend on how the land is used and whether forests are restored.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Statement 1 is true: The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) was established in 1974 under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974. It was later entrusted with the powers and functions under the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 as well. It plays a key role in monitoring and controlling pollution levels in India, especially water and air pollution. Statement 2 is false: Deforestation refers to the clearing or thinning of forests by humans, often for agricultural or industrial purposes. However, not all deforestation leads to permanent destruction. Reforestation and afforestation can restore forest cover over time. Hence, stating that it leads to “permanent” destruction is not entirely accurate in all contexts.
Thus, only Statement 1 is correct while Statement 2 is incorrect in its absolute claim.