Correct Answer: Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Solution : The correct answer is (a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

The assertion is true. Decentralization involves delegating decision-making authority to lower levels of the organization, allowing decisions to be made closer to where the relevant information and expertise are. This can result in faster decision-making because decisions can be made without having to go through a lengthy hierarchy or approval process.

The reason is the correct explanation for the assertion. By distributing decision-making authority to various levels of the organization, decentralization enables quicker decision-making. Decision-makers at lower levels can respond faster to local or specific needs without being delayed by the levels above them in the hierarchy.