To determine the relationship between the two statements given, let's analyze them logically:
- Statement I: "The quantum of edible oil imported this year is increased by the government."
- Statement II: "The production of oil seeds has declined sharply this year."
Now, let's evaluate the possible relationships:
- Statement II is the cause, and statement I is its effect:
If the production of oil seeds has sharply declined this year (Statement II), the government may decide to import more edible oil to meet the country's consumption needs. This logical connection indicates that a decrease in domestic oil seed production directly leads to an increase in imports to compensate for the shortfall. Thus, Statement II causes Statement I.
- Based on this analysis, the correct answer is: Statement II is the cause, and Statement I is its effect.
Let's evaluate why other options are not suitable:
- Both statements are effects of some common cause: This is unlikely as Statement I directly addresses an action taken (increase in import) which logically follows a shortage or decline in production (Statement II). There is no need for a different common cause.
- Statement I is the cause, and statement II is its effect: This relationship does not make logical sense because importing more edible oil cannot cause a decline in oil seed production, as production factors are independent of import policies.
- Both statements are effects of independent causes: While this could be hypothetically possible in some cases, in this scenario, the logic and sequence directly connect the shortfall in production to the increase in imports.