A population in a desert region depends on a single groundwater source. What is the permissible limit of fluoride in this drinking water source in India in the absence of an alternate supply?

• A 0.5 mg/L
• B 1.0 mg/L
• C 1.5 mg/L ✓
• D 2.0 mg/L

Explanation

The permissible limit of fluoride in drinking water in India is 1.5 mg/L in the absence of an alternate source. The optimal level is 1.0 mg/L. When fluoride levels exceed 1.5 mg/L, the water source must be rejected or defluoridated to prevent dental and skeletal fluorosis.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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