What is/are the importance/importances of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification? 1. It aims to promote effective action through innovative national programmes and supportive inter- national partnerships. 2. It has a special/particular focus on South Asia and North Africa regions, and its Secretariat facilitates the allocation of major portion of financial resources to these regions. 3. It is committed to bottom-up approach, encouraging the participation of local people in combating the desertification. Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. Statement 1 is correct. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) indeed aims to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought through effective action at all levels, supported by international partnerships and cooperation arrangements, within the framework of an integrated approach consistent with Agenda 21, contributing to sustainable development in affected areas. This includes promoting innovative national programmes. 2. Statement 2 is incorrect. While the UNCCD addresses desertification globally, particularly in Africa which has a dedicated Annex, it does not have a 'special/particular focus' specifically on South Asia and North Africa regions to the exclusion of others, nor does its Secretariat primarily facilitate the allocation of a 'major portion' of financial resources exclusively to these two regions. Funding mechanisms like the Global Environment Facility (GEF) support projects globally. 3. Statement 3 is correct. The UNCCD strongly emphasizes a bottom-up approach, involving local people and communities in the design and implementation of programmes to combat desertification and mitigate drought. Encouraging the participation of affected populations is a core principle.