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

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

The assertion states that land degradation is a significant environmental challenge that hinders sustainable development. The reason provided is that land degradation reduces agricultural productivity, biodiversity, and ecosystem services.

Land degradation refers to the deterioration of land quality, typically caused by human activities such as deforestation, overgrazing, unsustainable agricultural practices, and urbanization. It is a significant environmental challenge because it can lead to the loss of fertile soil, reduced water availability, increased erosion, and decreased vegetation cover. Land degradation can negatively impact ecosystems, biodiversity, and human well-being.

The reason provided correctly explains the negative impacts of land degradation. When land is degraded, it loses its ability to support productive agricultural systems, leading to reduced agricultural productivity and food security. Land degradation also results in the loss of habitat and biodiversity, as many species depend on healthy ecosystems for their survival. Additionally, land degradation can disrupt ecosystem services such as water purification, soil fertility, and climate regulation, further impacting human societies and the environment.

Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are correct, and the reason provides the correct explanation for the assertion.