Statement: Should India immediately stop digging coal from its mines? Arguments: I. Yes. The present stock will not last long at current mining rates. II. No. We do not yet have sufficient alternate energy resources. III. No. Stopping abruptly will hurt millions of livelihoods and related industries. Choose the option that best identifies the strong argument(s).

Introduction / Context:
Energy transition must balance climate goals, security of supply, and just transition for workers.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Alternatives (renewables, storage, grid upgrades) are scaling but not instantly substitutable.
• Coal value chains employ large numbers; abrupt stops cause shock.

Concept / Approach:
We test immediacy and feasibility, not eventual phase-down.

Step-by-Step Solution:
I: Finite reserves argue for managed transition, not immediate stop. Finite stock does not imply instant cessation. Weak.II: Current insufficiency of alternatives makes an immediate stop impractical and risky for grid stability. Strong.III: Highlights livelihoods and industrial dependence, supporting phased transition with reskilling and regional plans. Strong.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard policy is “just transition”: gradual reduction with support measures.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
I with any other is misclassified; “All” overstates I; “None” ignores II and III.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing long-run depletion with short-run policy actions.

Final Answer:
II and III are strong