Consider the following table

Consider the following table
Now answer the questions that follow.
consider-the-following-table-1
(a) Some people say that the Bengal famine happened because there was a shortage of rice. Study the table and find out whether you agree with the statement.
(b) Which year shows a drastic decline in food availability?

(a) No, I do not agree that the Bengal famine happened due to a shortage of rice. From the table, the availability was much higher than in 1941, although lower than in 1942. However, there can be a number of other causes like improper distribution, poor carry over stocks due to less production in 1941, malnutrition or disease, etc.
(b) The year showing a drastic decline in food availability is 1941.