The over-use of groundwater resources in some states of India has led to which of the following:

(A) the integrated development of rain-fed areas
(B) decline in groundwater table
(C) increased fluoride concentration
(D) an increase in the concentration of arsenic.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

(B), (C) and (D) only

The correct answer is Option (4) → (B), (C) and (D) only

(A) the integrated development of rain-fed areas. Not a direct consequence of over-use of groundwater. This is more of a policy response, not an effect.

(B) decline in groundwater table. Correct. Over-extraction causes a fall in water levels.

(C) increased fluoride concentration. Correct. Excess withdrawal brings fluoride contamination in states like Maharshtra and Rajasthan.

(D) an increase in the concentration of arsenic. Correct. Over-extraction in areas like West Bengal and Bihar has led to arsenic contamination.