Correct Option
Statement 2 is correct. The Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) was constituted under Section 3(3) of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. This statutory establishment empowers it to regulate and control groundwater development and management across India.
Statement 3 is correct. India holds the distinction of having the largest area under groundwater irrigation globally. Data from international organizations like FAO and World Bank confirm that a substantial portion, estimated at around 39 million hectares, is irrigated using groundwater resources in India.
Incorrect Options
Statement 1 is incorrect. Official assessments by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) indicate that approximately 14-17% of the assessment units are categorized as "overexploited" or "critical." The figure of 36% mentioned in the statement is not accurate as per these official reports.
Option (1) is incorrect because Statement 1 is factually inaccurate.
Option (3) is incorrect because while Statement 2 is correct, it does not include Statement 3, which is also correct.
Option (4) is incorrect because Statement 1 is factually inaccurate.