Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R):
Assertion (A): Return of a damaged or degraded land to a fully functional ecosystem irrespective of its original state, but in conformity to a prior land use plan is called rehabilitation.
Reason (R): Rehabilitated ecosystems provide ecosystem services that are required for human society and thus help in improving the carrying capacity of ecosystems.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is B

1. Assertion (A):
· The definition of rehabilitation in ecology is accurate. It refers to restoring a degraded or damaged ecosystem to a functional state that aligns with a prior land-use plan. It does not necessarily mean returning the land to its original state but rather to a usable and functional state.
2. Reason (R):
· Rehabilitated ecosystems indeed provide critical ecosystem services such as soil fertility, water regulation, and carbon sequestration, which enhance the carrying capacity of ecosystems and support human well-being.
3. Relationship Between (A) and (R):
· While both statements are correct, the reason (R) explains the broader benefits of rehabilitated ecosystems rather than directly explaining the definition or process of rehabilitation stated in (A).
Thus, the correct option is (b) Both (A) and (R) are correct, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
Information Booster: 1. Rehabilitation vs. Restoration:
· Rehabilitation: Focuses on making ecosystems functional again but not necessarily restoring them to their original state.
· Restoration: Attempts to return ecosystems to their original, undisturbed state.
2. Ecosystem Services of Rehabilitated Land:
· Soil stabilization and erosion control.
· Carbon storage and climate regulation.
· Biodiversity support and habitat creation.
3. Carrying Capacity Enhancement:
· Rehabilitated ecosystems can support more life and resources, reducing stress on surrounding areas.
Additional Knowledge: Assertion (A):
· Accurate definition of ecological rehabilitation, focusing on functional utility over original structure.
Reason (R):
· Highlights ecosystem services, such as provisioning, regulating, and supporting services.
Key Differences in Context:
· (A) defines the process of rehabilitation, while (R) discusses its outcomes, making them related but not causally explanatory.