Q. Consider the following statements:
(1) Meteorological Drought is based on the impact of rainfall deficits on the water supply.
(2) Socioeconomic Drought refers to the impact of drought conditions on supply and demand of economic goods.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Question from Odisha OCS Paper 1 2024
The correct answer is: b) 2 only.
Explanation:
Statement 1: “Meteorological Drought is based on the impact of rainfall deficits on the water supply.”
This statement is incorrect. Meteorological drought refers to a situation where there is a significant deficiency in precipitation (rainfall) over a specific period of time, compared to the average for that region. It is not directly based on the impact of rainfall deficits on water supply but rather on the deviation from normal precipitation levels.
Statement 2: “Socioeconomic Drought refers to the impact of drought conditions on supply and demand of economic goods.”
This statement is correct. Socioeconomic drought occurs when the water shortage caused by drought conditions affects the production and availability of goods and services, leading to an imbalance in supply and demand. For example, reduced agricultural output due to drought can lead to higher food prices, impacting the economy and society.
Thus, only statement 2 is correct.
