Given below are the Assertion and Reason, choose the correct options regarding both the statements.
Assertion (A): Seasonal agricultural practices, such as stubble burning, have no significant impact on AQI levels in India.
Reason (R): Stubble burning is a controlled practice that doesn't release substantial pollutants into the atmosphere.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Answer: Both A and R are false.
Explanation: The Assertion (A) is false because seasonal agricultural practices like stubble burning significantly increase air pollution and have a major impact on Air Quality Index (AQI) levels, especially in northern India.
The Reason (R) is also false because stubble burning is not a controlled practice; it releases large amounts of harmful pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, and greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Additional Key Facts
Stubble burning is a major contributor to winter smog in North India.
It is commonly practiced in Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.
It worsens respiratory diseases and reduces visibility.
Governments promote alternatives like crop residue management machines.
AQI measures air pollution levels based on multiple pollutants.
Potential Exam-Oriented Questions & Answers
Question: In which season does stubble burning most affect AQI in India?
Answer: Winter season
Question: Which Indian states are mainly associated with stubble burning?
Answer: Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh