The canal network in Punjab plays a crucial role in:

Irrigation
Drinking water supply
Hydropower
Navigation

The correct answer is: a) Irrigation.

The canal network in Punjab plays a crucial role in irrigation. The canals provide water for agriculture, which is the main source of income for the people of Punjab. The canals also help to control floods and improve the water quality in the region.

The other options are incorrect because:

  • b) Drinking water supply: The canal network is not the main source of drinking water in Punjab. Most people in Punjab get their drinking water from groundwater or from treated surface water.
  • c) Hydropower: The canal network is not used for hydropower generation. There are a few small hydropower plants in Punjab, but they do not generate enough electricity to meet the needs of the region.
  • d) Navigation: The canal network is not used for navigation. The canals are too narrow and shallow for most boats.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.