The correct option is (c).
Explanation
Water is a fundamental abiotic component of the environment, serving as a critical resource for biological survival, agricultural activities, and industrial processes.
- Statement 1 is correct: Water is essential for the growth of all plants, including those cultivated for fibres such as cotton and jute. These crops often require significant irrigation or rainfall to reach maturity and yield harvestable fibres.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: Paper production is a highly water-intensive industry. Large quantities of water are required for pulping wood, bleaching the pulp, and washing the final product. It is not a water-free process.
- Statement 3 is correct: Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater globally. As the demand for food production increases to support a growing population, the requirement for irrigation water rises, thereby exerting immense pressure on finite freshwater resources.
Key Takeaway: The "water footprint" of human activity includes not only direct consumption but also the significant volume of water required for agricultural (food and fibre) and industrial production.