UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Rainwater harvesting involves capturing runoff from roofs,terraces or open surfaces and storing it in tanks or directing it into the ground. It reduces pressure on surface and groundwater sources and helps bridge seasonal gaps in supply. Because the stem describes collection and storage of rainwater for later use,rainwater harvesting is the correct term. It is widely promoted in both rural and urban areas.

Option A:
Desalination is the process of removing salt from seawater to produce fresh water. It requires specialised plants and energy and does not involve direct collection of rainwater. Therefore it does not match the method described in the question.

Option B:
Rainwater harvesting can be implemented through simple household tanks or larger community systems. It has the added benefit of reducing urban flooding when integrated with stormwater management. These features align closely with the stem,which highlights collecting rainwater from roofs or catchments.

Option C:
Irrigation canal lining is a technique to prevent seepage losses from canals by using concrete or other materials. Although it conserves water,it does not involve storing rainfall in the manner mentioned in the question.

Option D:
Cloud seeding is a weather modification technique in which substances are dispersed into clouds to encourage precipitation. It does not deal with capturing and storing rain once it has fallen,so it is not suitable for the blank.