​Given below are two statements: one is labeled as Assertion A and the other is labeled as Reason R.

Assertion (A): Any lack of water to satisfy the normal needs of agriculture, livestock, industry, or human population may be termed as a drought.
Reason (R): Drought is a distress situation caused by lack of rainfall.

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Correct option is A

1. Drought can be caused by various factors, but the most common is insufficient rainfall, leading to a water deficit in the affected region.
2. The impacts of drought are wide-ranging, affecting agriculture, livestock, drinking water supply, and even energy production, particularly in regions reliant on hydroelectric power.
3. Meteorological drought occurs when rainfall is below the normal level for a sustained period, while hydrological drought is when the water levels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs are significantly reduced.
4. Agricultural drought refers to a situation where the lack of water significantly affects crop production.