AI-generated practice question — model-generated for extra practice, not a previous-year CBSE board question.
(A) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
The forest area in India is indeed far lower than the desired 33% (National Forest Policy, 1952), and large-scale conversion of forest land for agriculture, settlements, and other uses is the correct explanation for this decline.
Source: Resources and Development, Land Use Pattern in India
The textbook directly states that "forest area in the country is far lower than the desired 33 per cent of geographical area as outlined in the National Forest Policy (1952)." The Reason correctly explains the cause — conversion of forest land for settlements, roads, industries, and agriculture. Since both statements are true and R directly explains A, option (A) is correct.