A study conducted on the impacts of climate change over the Cauvery basin of Tamil Nadu using regional climate models showed an increasing trend for maximum and minimum temperatures, and a decrease in the number of rainy days. These climatic shifts will have an impact on the hydrological cycles in the region, lead to more run-off and less recharge, and affect the groundwater tables. Further, there has been an increase in the frequency of droughts in the State. This has driven farmers to increase dependency on groundwater resources to secure their crops.

Which one of the following statements best reflects the crux of the passage given above?

Option (a) is incorrect: The passage does not discuss climate-smart agricultural practices, so it is beyond the scope of the passage.

Option (b) is incorrect: The passage does not mention anything about adopting dry-land cropping systems, so it cannot be the main point or message of the passage.

Option (c) is correct: This statement accurately captures the main point of the passage, which discusses the adverse impacts of climate change, particularly droughts and increased groundwater abuse, on farming communities.

Option (d) is incorrect: The passage primarily focuses on the impact of climate change on agriculture and does not discuss unsustainable livelihoods.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.