Decision reasoning – monsoon shortfall preparedness Statement: Meteorological department forecasts less rainfall during next year’s monsoon. Courses of Action to evaluate: I. Set up a water authority immediately for proper management of water resources. II. Ask water-supply authorities to reduce regular water supply (rationing) to tackle the situation. III. Advise farmers to cultivate alternate crops requiring less water in the coming months. Which course(s) logically follow(s)?

Introduction / Context:
With a forecast of below-normal monsoon, sound governance requires proactive measures for water management and agricultural planning to reduce risk of scarcity and crop failure.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A credible forecast indicates less rainfall next monsoon.
• Water resources are finite and must be planned prudently.
• Farming choices can be adjusted toward less water-intensive crops.

Concept / Approach:
Good courses of action are preventive, feasible, and directly address the expected shortfall across governance (institutional setup), utilities (rationing), and agriculture (crop choice).

Step-by-Step Solution:
I: Establishing or empowering a water authority coordinates allocation, storage, reuse, and conservation. It is a logical strategic response.II: Controlled reduction (rationing) in regular supply helps stretch limited resources during shortage, a direct operational response.III: Advising farmers to shift to low-water crops (millets, pulses, short-duration varieties) is a targeted mitigation to safeguard livelihoods and food security.

Verification / Alternative check:
Each measure tackles a distinct facet: policy/coordination (I), urban/utility management (II), and rural/agricultural adaptation (III). Together they form a coherent plan for the predicted shortfall.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Any subset omits a necessary dimension of preparedness.
• “None” contradicts the obvious need for planning under credible forecast information.

Common Pitfalls:
Delaying action until scarcity peaks; focusing only on urban supply and neglecting agriculture.

Final Answer:
All follow