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VO.2. Read
the following passage and answer the questions that follow: (8 Marks)
Water is one of the most essential natural resources for the survival of life on Earth. It is used in
agriculture, industry, sanitation, transportation, and almost every human activity. However,
despite covering over 70% of the Earth's surface. only a small fraction-about
2.5%-is
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ice caps. The accessible freshwater
freshwater, and much of that is locked in glaciers and polar
water conservation not justa necessity but a
supply is limited and unevenly distributed, making
global priority.
pressure on water resources. Urbanization,
The growing world population has placed immense consume vast amounts of water. Many
industrial development, and intensive farming practices
rivers, lakes, and underground aquifers
are being depleted faster than they can be replenished.
a serious issue in both urban and rural areas.
In countries like India, water scarcity has become
Cities like Chennai and Bengaluru face acute shortages
during summer months, and farmers in
rainfall and drying groundwater.
drought-prone regions often struggle due to unreliable
the amount of clean, usable
Another major concern is water pollution, which further reduces rivers and lakes, harming
water. Industrial waste, sewage, pesticides, and plastics contaminate
conservation also involves protecting
aquatic life and endangering human health. Therefore,
water from pollution and ensuring it is safe for consumption.
Water conservation means using water wisely and avoiding
wastage. Simple practices like fixing
off the tap while brushing teeth can
leaking taps, using buckets instead of showers, and turning to
save thousands of liters over time. In agriculture, switching drip or sprinkler irrigation instead
of traditional flood irrigation
can save significant quantities of water. At the industrial level,
are essential practices.
recycling wastewater and treating effluents before discharge
conserving water. By collecting
Rainwater harvesting is an effective and traditional method of
and storing rainwater for domestic
use or groundwater recharge, individuals and communities
restoring
can reduce dependency on external water sources. Similarly, creating check dams,
preserve natural water bodies and recharge groundwater
ponds, and protecting wetlands help
levels.
awareness, enforcing water
Governments and organizations play a crucial role by creating in
usage regulations, and investing in sustainable water infrastructure. Education campaigns
a young age.
schools and communities can help instill a culture of water responsibility from
Water conservation also plays a vital role in mitigating the effects of climate change. As global
temperatures rise, droughts become more frequent, and glaciers-critical sources of freshwater
for millions-continue to melt. fficient water management is essential to adapt to these
environmental changes and protect water security for future generations.
In conclusion, water is a finite and precious resource that must be preserved through collective
.action. Individuals, communities, industries, and governments all have a responsibility to ensure
that water is used wisely, pollution is prevented, and sources are protected. Coniservation is not
merely an environmental issueit is a matter of survival, sustainability, and social equity. By
valuing andconserving water today,we secure life and prosperity for tomorrow.
(a) On the basis of your reading of the above passage, make notes on it in points only,
using abbreviations, wherever necessary. Also suggest a suitable title. (5 Marks)
(b) Write a summary of the passage in not more than 50 words, using the notes you
have made. (3 Marks)
