The correct answer is Option 1: Both Assertion (A) and reasoning (R) are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.

Here's why:

• Assertion (A): Population decline is a matter of concern. This is true. While population growth can create problems, declining populations also present significant challenges for economies, social systems, and long-term sustainability.

• Reasoning (R): A key reason why population decline is a concern is that it often signals that the resources or conditions that previously supported a larger population are no longer adequate. This could be due to factors like environmental degradation, economic downturn, out-migration, or other resource-related issues.

• Connection: The reasoning (R) directly explains why the assertion (A) is true. The decline itself is a symptom of underlying problems related to resource availability or the carrying capacity of an area. Therefore, R is the correct explanation of A.