A famine is characterized by widespread deaths due to starvation and epidemics caused by forced use of contaminated water or decaying food and loss of body resistance due to weakening from starvation. The correct answer is option 'A', which means the statement is true.

Famine and its Characteristics:

1. Definition of Famine:
- A famine refers to a widespread scarcity of food, typically affecting a large population within a specific region or country.
- It is a severe shortage of food, leading to starvation and malnutrition among the affected population.

2. Widespread Deaths due to Starvation:
- In a famine, there is a significant lack of food availability, which leads to widespread deaths caused by starvation.
- When people do not have access to enough nutritious food, their bodies are unable to function properly, and they eventually succumb to hunger and malnutrition.
- The lack of necessary nutrients weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to various diseases and infections.

3. Epidemics due to Contaminated Water and Food:
- During a famine, people often resort to using contaminated water sources and consuming decaying or unhygienic food due to the scarcity of resources.
- Contaminated water can contain harmful pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, which can cause waterborne diseases like cholera, dysentery, or typhoid.
- Similarly, consuming decaying or unhygienic food can lead to foodborne illnesses, further exacerbating the health conditions of the affected population.

4. Loss of Body Resistance due to Weakening from Starvation:
- Prolonged starvation weakens the body's immune system and diminishes its ability to fight off infections and diseases.
- When individuals are deprived of essential nutrients, their bodies become more susceptible to illnesses and are unable to effectively combat infections.
- As a result, the loss of body resistance due to weakening from starvation contributes to the increased mortality rate during a famine.

In conclusion, a famine is indeed characterized by widespread deaths due to starvation and epidemics caused by the forced use of contaminated water or decaying food. The loss of body resistance due to weakening from starvation further worsens the situation, leading to a higher mortality rate among the affected population.