Consider the following statements : 1. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme was launched during 1996-97 to provide loan assistance to poor farmers. 2. The Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974-75 for the development of water-use efficiency. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Statement 2 is correct as the Command Area Development Programme (1974-75) was designed to bridge the gap between created and utilized irrigation potential, focusing on enhancing water-use efficiency. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) provides financial assistance to State Governments to expedite the completion of major and medium irrigation projects, rather than providing loans directly to poor farmers. The core concept tested is the specific objectives and target beneficiaries of major government irrigation and water management schemes.