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 non-commercial energy sources, such as firewood and agricultural waste, are primarily used for cooking and heating in rural areas, which is correct. In many rural areas, especially in developing regions, non-commercial energy sources are commonly used for cooking and heating purposes. This is often due to limited access to commercial energy sources, such as electricity or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Firewood and agricultural waste, such as crop residues or animal dung, are readily available and affordable options for rural households to meet their cooking and heating needs.

The reason provided states that non-commercial energy sources are locally available and easily accessible in rural regions, and this is the correct explanation of the assertion. Non-commercial energy sources like firewood and agricultural waste are often locally available in rural areas. They can be easily obtained from the surrounding environment or through agricultural activities. These sources require minimal or no monetary cost, making them accessible to rural communities that may have limited financial resources.

Therefore, both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason serves as the correct explanation for why non-commercial energy sources are primarily used for cooking and heating in rural areas.